Here Are The Biggest 2025 Races And Ballot Measures

November is approaching, bringing a series of important elections across several states and localities. While not as extensive as midterm or presidential elections, the races scheduled for November 4 are expected to hold significant implications for state governance and policy direction.

In California, Governor Gavin Newsom is backing Proposition 50, which seeks to adopt a new congressional map that critics argue would further gerrymander the state in favor of Democrats. This initiative comes after Texas Republicans announced plans for a congressional map that could potentially gain them five additional seats in the upcoming 2026 midterms. The new map, supported by significant financial contributions from prominent leftist donors, aims to counteract Republican gains anticipated from Texas's redistricting efforts.

Maine voters will also face a pivotal decision with the “Maine Question 1,” which proposes requiring photo identification for voting in person and by mail. The measure includes changes to absentee ballot rules and limits the number of ballot drop boxes. However, the language describing the initiative has faced criticism for being misleading, leading to a lawsuit against Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, who opposes voter ID laws. The Maine Supreme Judicial Court upheld the ballot description, allowing it to proceed to voters.

In New Jersey, the gubernatorial race features Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli, who previously challenged incumbent Governor Phil Murphy in a close contest. The election has been marred by allegations of a cheating scandal involving Sherrill during her time at the U.S. Naval Academy. Despite being a traditionally blue state, New Jersey has seen a rise in Republican voter registrations, with recent data indicating a net gain of nearly 31,000 registered Republicans this year.

New York City is witnessing a competitive mayoral race following Mayor Eric Adams's decision not to seek reelection. The leading candidates include former Governor Andrew Cuomo and state Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani. Polls suggest that Mamdani, an Islamic socialist, may have the edge. Critics have raised concerns about his views and policies, suggesting they could negatively impact the city’s governance and public safety.

In Pennsylvania, voters will decide on the retention of three Democrat justices on the state Supreme Court. If any justice is not retained, Governor Josh Shapiro could appoint a temporary replacement with the approval of the Republican-controlled Senate. This election is critical as it could shift the current 5-2 Democrat majority on the court, potentially leading to a more balanced bench.

Overall, these elections and ballot measures reflect ongoing debates over governance, electoral integrity, and party control in key states. As voters prepare to head to the polls, the outcomes could have lasting implications for state policies and the political landscape leading into the 2026 elections.