State Legislatures 101: Why They Matter More Than You Think

Can you name the president? Your governor? How about your senators? 

Far fewer Americans can name their state legislators — even though these lawmakers make decisions that affect nearly every aspect of our daily lives. With the exception of Nebraska, which has a single chamber, states have two chambers of their state legislature: a House (or Assembly) and a Senate, both composed of elected leaders who represent local communities like yours. 

So, how do state legislators show up for you, and why should you care about the upcoming midterm elections?

Think of your local public school, your doctor’s office, the roads you drive on, and the housing you live in. Each part of your day-to-day routine is shaped by and determined by your state legislators, who make important budget and policy decisions. This unique positioning is why the DLCC works to elect Democratic leaders who don’t just represent their communities — they live in them. State legislators are often neighbors, community leaders, and trusted local voices who experience the same challenges and opportunities as the people they serve.

 

 

Want to dive even deeper? Here’s a quick summary of how state legislators directly shape congressional elections:

State legislatures redraw both legislative and congressional district maps in most states – meaning the folks on your ballot at the polls in November were shaped by state legislators. The choices voters make in state legislative elections in the current moment will help shape political power for years to come.

It’s often overlooked just how much state legislators go on to lead in future federal positions – think of President Obama, a former Illinois State Senator, or the fact that nearly half of Democrats serving in Congress are former state legislators. Additionally, state legislatures help determine whether governors can advance their agendas through the veto process, and even serve as a pipeline for future governors and members of Congress.

Since 2016, the DLCC has weakened Republicans’  hold on state legislatures by flipping 10 majorities from red to blue, and for the 2026 midterm elections, we have announced the largest target map in our history. These states offer the greatest opportunity to build and expand Democratic power.

 

 

The DLCC works to elect Democrats to every state legislature, where over 7,000 seats across the country are up for grabs at different points every year. 

We are the campaign arm for more than 3,000 state legislators and thousands of candidates across all 50 states who are advancing Democratic values and standing up to the dangerous MAGA agenda every single day. With more than three decades of experience, the DLCC works directly with State House and State Senate campaigns across the country to win more races in more places than any other group or committee. Whether it is defending Democratic majorities in blue states or laying the groundwork to expand power in purple and red states, the DLCC and our state legislators are shaping the future of the Democratic Party and our country. 

We also assess opportunities in special elections, which take place nearly every Tuesday of every year, through the same lens we use to assess the overall target map. The DLCC uses data and long-term planning to identify the best opportunities to build Democratic power, helping campaigns access resources, expertise, and support needed to compete and win. With an increasing number of partners and allies in our movement to win back power for Democrats in the states, the DLCC is leading the national strategy.

So, if you want to understand where the future of American politics is being decided… start with the states. To get the latest updates on our work and more, sign up below to help build lasting power in our state capitals.