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Major party competition in state legislative elections, 2018

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Last updated on November 18, 2024
2018 State Legislative Competitiveness
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There were 6,065 state legislative seats up for election on November 6, 2018, in 46 states. Of that total, 2,046 (34%) were uncontested and had no major party competition. The remaining 4,019 (66%) were contested by both major parties. This was the smallest number and percentage of seats with no major party competition since Ballotpedia began gathering data in 2010.

A seat has major party competition when candidates from both major parties are on the general election ballot. When only one major party is running for a seat, it has no major party competition and is effectively guaranteed to the major party candidate on the ballot. Learn more about the terms and methodologies used in this analysis.

Ballotpedia uses the level of major party competition to help determine the overall competitiveness of an election cycle. A larger number of seats without major party competition indicates fewer options on the ballot. A smaller number indicates more options.

In 2018:

  • Democrats were guaranteed to win 1,293 seats (21%) that lacked Republican competition, a 2% increase from 2016.
  • Republicans were guaranteed to win 750 seats (12%) that lacked Democratic competition, a 39% decrease from 2016.
  • Overall, Democrats ran for 5,312 seats (88%) and Republicans ran for 4,769 (79%).
  • There were three seats guaranteed to minor party or independent candidates because no major party candidates ran.
  • The total number of seats without major party competition—2,046—was less than in 2016 (2,508), representing an 18% decrease.

  • Major party competition in state legislative elections, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 4,956 1,085 21.9% 622 12.6% 1,710 34.5% 3,246 65.5%
    Senate 1,109 208 18.8% 128 11.5% 336 30.3% 773 69.7%
    Total 6,065 1,293 21.3% 750 12.4% 2,046 33.7% 4,019 66.3%


    The chart below compares states by the percentage of seats contested by each of the major parties. In states located in the upper-right corner, almost all seats were contested by both major parties.


    Click [show] on the table below to view incumbents in contested primaries statistics by state in 2018. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Historical comparison

    The chart below shows a breakdown of major party competition in state legislative elections from 2010 to 2018.


    Click [show] on the table below to view overall major party competition statistics by state from 2010 to 2018. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    By state

    Overview

    Alabama

    There were 140 seats up for election in Alabama, 64 (46%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 76 seats (54%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 94 seats (67%), 30 of which had no Republican competition, representing 21% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 110 seats (79%), 46 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 33% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Alabama, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 105 23 21.9% 33 31.4% 56 53.3% 49 46.7%
    Senate 35 7 20.0% 13 37.1% 20 57.1% 15 42.9%
    Total 140 30 21.4% 46 32.9% 76 54.3% 64 45.7%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Alabama, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 140 37 26.4% 40 28.6% 77 55.0% 63 45.0%
    2012 Did not hold elections.
    2014 140 25 17.9% 60 42.9% 85 60.7% 55 39.3%
    2016 Did not hold elections.
    2018 140 30 21.4% 46 32.9% 76 54.3% 64 45.7%


    See also:

    Alaska

    There were 50 seats up for election in Alaska, 38 (76%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 12 seats (24%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 44 seats (88%), six of which had no Republican competition, representing 12% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 44 seats (88%), six of which had no Democratic competition, representing 12% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Alaska, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 40 4 10.0% 4 10.0% 8 20.0% 32 80.0%
    Senate 10 2 20.0% 2 20.0% 4 40.0% 6 60.0%
    Total 50 6 12.0% 6 12.0% 12 24.0% 38 76.0%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Alaska, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 50 12 24.0% 10 20.0% 22 44.0% 28 56.0%
    2012 59 5 8.5% 13 22.0% 18 30.5% 41 69.5%
    2014 54 12 22.2% 6 11.1% 18 33.3% 36 66.7%
    2016 50 11 22.0% 13 26.0% 24 48.0% 26 52.0%
    2018 50 6 12.0% 6 12.0% 12 24.0% 38 76.0%


    See also:

    Arizona

    There were 90 seats up for election in Arizona, 60 (67%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 30 seats (33%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 83 seats (92%), 23 of which had no Republican competition, representing 26% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 67 seats (74%), seven of which had no Democratic competition, representing 8% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Arizona, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 60 16 26.7% 6 10.0% 22 36.7% 38 63.3%
    Senate 30 7 23.3% 1 3.3% 8 26.7% 22 73.3%
    Total 90 23 25.6% 7 7.8% 30 33.3% 60 66.7%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Arizona, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 90 17 18.9% 22 24.4% 39 43.3% 51 56.7%
    2012 90 23 25.6% 23 25.6% 46 51.1% 44 48.9%
    2014 90 15 16.7% 22 24.4% 37 41.1% 53 58.9%
    2016 90 26 28.9% 23 25.6% 49 54.4% 41 45.6%
    2018 90 23 25.6% 7 7.8% 30 33.3% 60 66.7%


    See also:

    Arkansas

    There were 118 seats up for election in Arkansas, 47 (40%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 71 seats (60%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 67 seats (57%), 20 of which had no Republican competition, representing 17% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 98 seats (83%), 51 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 43% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Arkansas, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 100 16 16.0% 44 44.0% 60 60.0% 40 40.0%
    Senate 18 4 22.2% 7 38.9% 11 61.1% 7 38.9%
    Total 118 20 16.9% 51 43.2% 71 60.2% 47 39.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Arkansas, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 117 53 45.3% 26 22.2% 79 67.5% 38 32.5%
    2012 135 34 25.2% 36 26.7% 71[1] 52.6% 64 47.4%
    2014 118 33 28.0% 48 40.7% 81 68.6% 37 31.4%
    2016 117 27 23.1% 62 53.0% 89 76.1% 28 23.9%
    2018 118 20 16.9% 51 43.2% 71 60.2% 47 39.8%


    See also:

    California

    There were 100 seats up for election in California, 73 (73%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 27 seats (27%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 100 seats (100%), 27 of which had no Republican competition, representing 27% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 73 seats (73%), all of which featured Democratic competition.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in California, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 80 21 26.3% 0 0.0% 21 26.3% 59 73.8%
    Senate 20 6 30.0% 0 0.0% 6 30.0% 14 70.0%
    Total 100 27 27.0% 0 0.0% 27 27.0% 73 73.0%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in California, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 100 6 6.0% 2 2.0% 8 8.0% 92 92.0%
    2012 100 19 19.0% 7 7.0% 26 26.0% 74 74.0%
    2014 100 18 18.0% 7 7.0% 25 25.0% 75 75.0%
    2016 100 22 22.0% 5 5.0% 27 27.0% 73 73.0%
    2018 100 27 27.0% 0 0.0% 27 27.0% 73 73.0%


    See also:

    Colorado

    There were 82 seats up for election in Colorado, 72 (88%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 10 seats (12%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 81 seats (99%), nine of which had no Republican competition, representing 11% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 73 seats (89%), one of which had no Democratic competition, representing 1% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Colorado, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 65 8 12.3% 1 1.5% 9 13.8% 56 86.2%
    Senate 17 1 5.9% 0 0.0% 1 5.9% 16 94.1%
    Total 82 9 11.0% 1 1.2% 10 12.2% 72 87.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Colorado, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 84 1 1.2% 12 14.3% 13 15.5% 71 84.5%
    2012 85 0 0.0% 12 14.1% 12 14.1% 73 85.9%
    2014 82 3 3.7% 16 19.5% 19 23.2% 63 76.8%
    2016 83 8 9.6% 8 9.6% 16 19.3% 67 80.7%
    2018 82 9 11.0% 1 1.2% 10 12.2% 72 87.8%


    See also:

    Connecticut

    There were 187 seats up for election in Connecticut, 162 (87%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 25 seats (13%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 182 seats (97%), 20 of which had no Republican competition, representing 11% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 167 seats (89%), five of which had no Democratic competition, representing 3% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Connecticut, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 151 18 11.9% 5 3.3% 23 15.2% 128 84.8%
    Senate 36 2 5.6% 0 0.0% 2 5.6% 34 94.4%
    Total 187 20 10.7% 5 2.7% 25 13.4% 162 86.6%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Connecticut, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 187 29 15.5% 18 9.6% 47 25.1% 140 74.9%
    2012 187 24 12.8% 16 8.6% 40 21.4% 147 78.6%
    2014 187 30 16.0% 23 12.3% 53 28.3% 134 71.7%
    2016 187 22 11.8% 27 14.4% 49 26.2% 138 73.8%
    2018 187 20 10.7% 5 2.7% 25 13.4% 162 86.6%


    See also:

    Delaware

    There were 51 seats up for election in Delaware, 34 (67%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 17 seats (33%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 47 seats (92%), 13 of which had no Republican competition, representing 25% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 38 seats (75%), four of which had no Democratic competition, representing 8% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Delaware, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 41 11 26.8% 4 9.8% 15 36.6% 26 63.4%
    Senate 10 2 20.0% 0 0.0% 2 20.0% 8 80.0%
    Total 51 13 25.5% 4 7.8% 17 33.3% 34 66.7%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Delaware, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 52 10 19.2% 8 15.4% 18 34.6% 34 65.4%
    2012 62 23 37.1% 8 12.9% 31 50.0% 31 50.0%
    2014 51 15 29.4% 7 13.7% 22 43.1% 29 56.9%
    2016 52 20 38.5% 8 15.4% 28 53.8% 24 46.2%
    2018 51 13 25.5% 4 7.8% 17 33.3% 34 66.7%


    See also:

    Florida

    There were 140 seats up for election in Florida, 92 (66%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 48 seats (34%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 128 seats (91%), 36 of which had no Republican competition, representing 26% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 104 seats (74%), 12 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 9% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Florida, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 120 31 25.8% 12 10.0% 43 35.8% 77 64.2%
    Senate 20 5 25.0% 0 0.0% 5 25.0% 15 75.0%
    Total 140 36 25.7% 12 8.6% 48 34.3% 92 65.7%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Florida, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 143 29 20.3% 43 30.1% 72 50.3% 71 49.7%
    2012 160 26 16.3% 62 38.8% 88 55.0% 72 45.0%
    2014 140 30 21.4% 53 37.9% 83 59.3% 57 40.7%
    2016 160 37 23.1% 50 31.3% 87 54.4% 73 45.6%
    2018 140 36 25.7% 12 8.6% 48 34.3% 92 65.7%


    See also:

    Georgia

    There were 236 seats up for election in Georgia, 91 (39%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 145 seats (61%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 158 seats (67%), 67 of which had no Republican competition, representing 28% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 169 seats (72%), 78 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 33% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Georgia, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 180 52 28.9% 60 33.3% 112 62.2% 68 37.8%
    Senate 56 15 26.8% 18 32.1% 33 58.9% 23 41.1%
    Total 236 67 28.4% 78 33.1% 145 61.4% 91 38.6%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Georgia, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 236 74 31.4% 84 35.6% 158 66.9% 78 33.1%
    2012 236 63 26.7% 119 50.4% 182 77.1% 54 22.9%
    2014 236 67 28.4% 120 50.8% 188 79.7% 48 20.3%
    2016 236 65 27.5% 127 53.8% 192 81.4% 44 18.6%
    2018 236 67 28.4% 78 33.1% 145 61.4% 91 38.6%


    See also:

    Hawaii

    There were 63 seats up for election in Hawaii, 20 (32%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 43 seats (68%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 61 seats (97%), 41 of which had no Republican competition, representing 65% of all seats up for election. This guaranteed Democratic control of a majority of seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 22 seats (35%), two of which had no Democratic competition, representing 3% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Hawaii, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 51 33 64.7% 2 3.9% 35 68.6% 16 31.4%
    Senate 12 8 66.7% 0 0.0% 8 66.7% 4 33.3%
    Total 63 41 65.1% 2 3.2% 43 68.3% 20 31.7%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Hawaii, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 66 3 4.5% 3 4.5% 6 9.1% 60 90.9%
    2012 76 27 35.5% 2 2.6% 29 38.2% 47 61.8%
    2014 63 20 31.7% 0 0.0% 20 31.7% 43 68.3%
    2016 64 31 48.4% 2 3.1% 33 51.6% 31 48.4%
    2018 63 41 65.1% 2 3.2% 43 68.3% 20 31.7%


    See also:

    Idaho

    There were 105 seats up for election in Idaho, 57 (54%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 48 seats (46%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 60 seats (57%), three of which had no Republican competition, representing 3% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 102 seats (97%), 45 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 43% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Idaho, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 70 2 2.9% 31 44.3% 33 47.1% 37 52.9%
    Senate 35 1 2.9% 14 40.0% 15 42.9% 20 57.1%
    Total 105 3 2.9% 45 42.9% 48 45.7% 57 54.3%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Idaho, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 105 3 2.9% 48 45.7% 51 48.6% 54 51.4%
    2012 105 1 1.0% 26 24.8% 27 25.7% 78 74.3%
    2014 105 4 3.8% 46 43.8% 50 47.6% 55 52.4%
    2016 105 6 5.7% 37 35.2% 43 41.0% 62 59.0%
    2018 105 3 2.9% 45 42.9% 48 45.7% 57 54.3%


    See also:

    Illinois

    There were 157 seats up for election in Illinois, 77 (49%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 80 seats (51%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 134 seats (85%), 57 of which had no Republican competition, representing 36% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 100 seats (64%), 23 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 15% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Illinois, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 118 42 35.6% 15 12.7% 57 48.3% 61 51.7%
    Senate 39 15 38.5% 8 20.5% 23 59.0% 16 41.0%
    Total 157 57 36.3% 23 14.6% 80 51.0% 77 49.0%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Illinois, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 139 44 31.7% 15 10.8% 59 42.4% 80 57.6%
    2012 177 58 32.8% 43 24.3% 101 57.1% 76 42.9%
    2014 137 50 36.5% 34 24.8% 84 61.3% 53 38.7%
    2016 158 64 40.5% 35 22.2% 99 62.7% 59 37.3%
    2018 157 57 36.3% 23 14.6% 80 51.0% 77 49.0%


    See also:

    Indiana

    There were 125 seats up for election in Indiana, 86 (69%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 39 seats (31%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 108 seats (86%), 22 of which had no Republican competition, representing 18% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 103 seats (82%), 17 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 14% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Indiana, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 100 22 22.0% 11 11.0% 33 33.0% 67 67.0%
    Senate 25 0 0.0% 6 24.0% 6 24.0% 19 76.0%
    Total 125 22 17.6% 17 13.6% 39 31.2% 86 68.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Indiana, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 125 6 4.8% 29 23.2% 35 28.0% 90 72.0%
    2012 125 16 12.8% 26 20.8% 42 33.6% 83 66.4%
    2014 125 20 16.0% 42 33.6% 62 49.6% 63 50.4%
    2016 125 22 17.6% 23 18.4% 45 36.0% 80 64.0%
    2018 125 22 17.6% 17 13.6% 39 31.2% 86 68.8%


    See also:

    Iowa

    There were 125 seats up for election in Iowa, 89 (71%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 36 seats (29%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 118 seats (94%), 29 of which had no Republican competition, representing 23% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 96 seats (77%), seven of which had no Democratic competition, representing 6% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Iowa, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 100 23 23.0% 5 5.0% 28 28.0% 72 72.0%
    Senate 25 6 24.0% 2 8.0% 8 32.0% 17 68.0%
    Total 125 29 23.2% 7 5.6% 36 28.8% 89 71.2%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Iowa, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 125 13 10.4% 28 22.4% 41 32.8% 84 67.2%
    2012 126 12 9.5% 23 18.3% 35 27.8% 91 72.2%
    2014 125 35 28.0% 28 22.4% 63 50.4% 62 49.6%
    2016 125 21 16.8% 19 15.2% 40 32.0% 85 68.0%
    2018 125 29 23.2% 7 5.6% 36 28.8% 89 71.2%


    See also:

    Kansas

    There were 125 seats up for election in Kansas, 61 (49%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 64 seats (51%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 86 seats (69%), 25 of which had no Republican competition, representing 20% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 100 seats (80%), 39 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 31% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Kansas, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 125 25 20.0% 39 31.2% 64 51.2% 61 48.8%
    Senate Did not hold elections.
    Total 125 25 20.0% 39 31.2% 64 51.2% 61 48.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Kansas, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 125 15 12.0% 39 31.2% 54 43.2% 71 56.8%
    2012 165 6 3.6% 44 26.7% 50 30.3% 115 69.7%
    2014 125 12 9.6% 38 30.4% 50 40.0% 75 60.0%
    2016 165 23 13.9% 32 19.4% 55 33.3% 110 66.7%
    2018 125 25 20.0% 39 31.2% 64 51.2% 61 48.8%


    See also:

    Kentucky

    There were 119 seats up for election in Kentucky, 101 (85%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 18 seats (15%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 109 seats (92%), eight of which had no Republican competition, representing 7% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 111 seats (93%), 10 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 8% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Kentucky, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 100 7 7.0% 8 8.0% 15 15.0% 85 85.0%
    Senate 19 1 5.3% 2 10.5% 3 15.8% 16 84.2%
    Total 119 8 6.7% 10 8.4% 18 15.1% 101 84.9%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Kentucky, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 119 23 19.3% 29 24.4% 52 43.7% 67 56.3%
    2012 119 34 28.6% 32 26.9% 66 55.5% 53 44.5%
    2014 119 28 23.5% 32 26.9% 60 50.4% 59 49.6%
    2016 119 17 14.3% 32 26.9% 49 41.2% 70 58.8%
    2018 119 8 6.7% 10 8.4% 18 15.1% 101 84.9%


    See also:

    Maine

    There were 186 seats up for election in Maine, 156 (84%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 30 seats (16%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 174 seats (94%), 18 of which had no Republican competition, representing 10% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 168 seats (90%), 12 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 6% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Maine, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 151 15 9.9% 12 7.9% 27 17.9% 124 82.1%
    Senate 35 3 8.6% 0 0.0% 3 8.6% 32 91.4%
    Total 186 18 9.7% 12 6.5% 30 16.1% 156 83.9%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Maine, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 186 5 2.7% 6 3.2% 11 5.9% 175 94.1%
    2012 186 6 3.2% 11 5.9% 17 9.1% 169 90.9%
    2014 186 11 5.9% 14 7.5% 25 13.4% 161 86.6%
    2016 186 16 8.6% 10 5.4% 26 14.0% 160 86.0%
    2018 186 18 9.7% 12 6.5% 30 16.1% 156 83.9%


    See also:

    Maryland

    There were 188 seats up for election in Maryland, 117 (62%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 71 seats (38%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 175 seats (93%), 58 of which had no Republican competition, representing 31% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 130 seats (69%), 13 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 7% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Maryland, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 141 46 32.6% 10 7.1% 56 39.7% 85 60.3%
    Senate 47 12 25.5% 3 6.4% 15 31.9% 32 68.1%
    Total 188 58 30.9% 13 6.9% 71 37.8% 117 62.2%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Maryland, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 188 51 27.1% 8 4.3% 59 31.4% 129 68.6%
    2012 Did not hold elections.
    2014 188 60 31.9% 8 4.3% 68 36.2% 120 63.8%
    2016 Did not hold elections.
    2018 188 58 30.9% 13 6.9% 71 37.8% 117 62.2%


    See also:

    Massachusetts

    There were 200 seats up for election in Massachusetts, 60 (30%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 140 seats (70%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 186 seats (93%), 126 of which had no Republican competition, representing 63% of all seats up for election. This guaranteed Democratic control of a majority of seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 74 seats (37%), 14 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 7% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Massachusetts, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 160 102 63.8% 12 7.5% 114 71.3% 46 28.8%
    Senate 40 24 60.0% 2 5.0% 26 65.0% 14 35.0%
    Total 200 126 63.0% 14 7.0% 140 70.0% 60 30.0%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Massachusetts, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 200 92 46.0% 12 6.0% 104 52.0% 96 48.0%
    2012 200 114 57.0% 20 10.0% 134 67.0% 66 33.0%
    2014 200 105 52.5% 18 9.0% 123 61.5% 77 38.5%
    2016 200 134 67.0% 20 10.0% 154 77.0% 46 23.0%
    2018 200 126 63.0% 14 7.0% 140 70.0% 60 30.0%


    See also:

    Michigan

    There were 148 seats up for election in Michigan, all of which were contested by both major parties.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Michigan, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 110 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 110 100.0%
    Senate 38 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 38 100.0%
    Total 148 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 148 100.0%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Michigan, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 148 0 0.0% 3 2.0% 3 2.0% 145 98.0%
    2012 110 0 0.0% 2 1.8% 2 1.8% 108 98.2%
    2014 148 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 148 100.0%
    2016 110 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 110 100.0%
    2018 148 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 148 100.0%


    See also:

    Minnesota

    There were 134 seats up for election in Minnesota, 131 (98%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 3 seats (2%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 134 seats (100%), three of which had no Republican competition, representing 2% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 131 seats (98%), all of which featured Democratic competition.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Minnesota, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 134 3 2.2% 0 0.0% 3 2.2% 131 97.8%
    Senate Did not hold elections.
    Total 134 3 2.2% 0 0.0% 3 2.2% 131 97.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Minnesota, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 201 0 0.0% 6 3.0% 6 3.0% 195 97.0%
    2012 201 6 3.0% 2 1.0% 8 4.0% 193 96.0%
    2014 134 1 0.7% 8 6.0% 9 6.7% 125 93.3%
    2016 201 5 2.5% 2 1.0% 7 3.5% 194 96.5%
    2018 134 3 2.2% 0 0.0% 3 2.2% 131 97.8%


    See also:

    Missouri

    There were 180 seats up for election in Missouri, 133 (74%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 47 seats (26%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 162 seats (90%), 29 of which had no Republican competition, representing 16% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 151 seats (84%), 18 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 10% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Missouri, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 163 28 17.2% 18 11.0% 46 28.2% 117 71.8%
    Senate 17 1 5.9% 0 0.0% 1 5.9% 16 94.1%
    Total 180 29 16.1% 18 10.0% 47 26.1% 133 73.9%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Missouri, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 180 31 17.2% 47 26.1% 78 43.3% 102 56.7%
    2012 180 33 18.3% 58 32.2% 91 50.6% 89 49.4%
    2014 180 26 14.4% 65 36.1% 91 50.6% 89 49.4%
    2016 180 35 19.4% 70 38.9% 105 58.3% 75 41.7%
    2018 180 29 16.1% 18 10.0% 47 26.1% 133 73.9%


    See also:

    Montana

    There were 125 seats up for election in Montana, 85 (68%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 40 seats (32%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 106 seats (85%), 21 of which had no Republican competition, representing 17% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 104 seats (83%), 19 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 15% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Montana, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 100 19 19.0% 15 15.0% 34 34.0% 66 66.0%
    Senate 25 2 8.0% 4 16.0% 6 24.0% 19 76.0%
    Total 125 21 16.8% 19 15.2% 40 32.0% 85 68.0%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Montana, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 126 11 8.7% 24 19.0% 35 27.8% 91 72.2%
    2012 126 9 7.1% 17 13.5% 26 20.6% 100 79.4%
    2014 125 19 15.2% 1 0.8% 20 16.0% 105 84.0%
    2016 125 18 14.4% 10 8.0% 28 22.4% 97 77.6%
    2018 125 21 16.8% 19 15.2% 40 32.0% 85 68.0%


    See also:

    Nebraska

    There were 24 seats up for election in Nebraska, 13 (54%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 11 seats (46%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 17 seats (71%), four of which had no Republican competition, representing 17% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 20 seats (83%), seven of which had no Democratic competition, representing 29% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Nebraska, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House N/A
    Senate 24 4 16.7% 7 29.2% 11 45.8% 13 54.2%
    Total 24 4 16.7% 7 29.2% 11 45.8% 13 54.2%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Nebraska, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 24 3 12.5% 12 50.0% 15 62.5% 9 37.5%
    2012 25 4 16.0% 8 32.0% 12 48.0% 13 52.0%
    2014 24 2 8.3% 14 58.3% 16 66.7% 8 33.3%
    2016 25 4 16.0% 10 40.0% 14 56.0% 11 44.0%
    2018 24 4 16.7% 7 29.2% 11 45.8% 13 54.2%


    See also:

    Nevada

    There were 53 seats up for election in Nevada, 36 (68%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 17 seats (32%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 48 seats (91%), 12 of which had no Republican competition, representing 23% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 41 seats (77%), five of which had no Democratic competition, representing 9% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Nevada, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 42 10 23.8% 5 11.9% 15 35.7% 27 64.3%
    Senate 11 2 18.2% 0 0.0% 2 18.2% 9 81.8%
    Total 53 12 22.6% 5 9.4% 17 32.1% 36 67.9%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Nevada, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 53 1 1.9% 3 5.7% 4 7.5% 49 92.5%
    2012 52 6 11.5% 6 11.5% 12 23.1% 40 76.9%
    2014 53 10 18.9% 11 20.8% 21 39.6% 32 60.4%
    2016 52 5 9.6% 8 15.4% 13 25.0% 39 75.0%
    2018 53 12 22.6% 5 9.4% 17 32.1% 36 67.9%


    See also:

    New Hampshire

    There were 424 seats up for election in New Hampshire, 351 (83%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 73 seats (17%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 412 seats (97%), 61 of which had no Republican competition, representing 14% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 363 seats (86%), 12 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 3% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in New Hampshire, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 400 60 15.0% 12 3.0% 72 18.0% 328 82.0%
    Senate 24 1 4.2% 0 0.0% 1 4.2% 23 95.8%
    Total 424 61 14.4% 12 2.8% 73 17.2% 351 82.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in New Hampshire, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 424 23 5.4% 35 8.3% 58 13.7% 366 86.3%
    2012 424 37 8.7% 38 9.0% 75 17.7% 349 82.3%
    2014 424 41 9.7% 48 11.3% 89 21.0% 335 79.0%
    2016 424 55 13.0% 32 7.5% 87 20.5% 337 79.5%
    2018 424 61 14.4% 12 2.8% 73 17.2% 351 82.8%


    See also:

    New Mexico

    There were 70 seats up for election in New Mexico, 32 (46%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 38 seats (54%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 57 seats (81%), 25 of which had no Republican competition, representing 36% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 45 seats (64%), 13 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 19% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in New Mexico, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 70 25 35.7% 13 18.6% 38 54.3% 32 45.7%
    Senate Did not hold elections.
    Total 70 25 35.7% 13 18.6% 38 54.3% 32 45.7%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in New Mexico, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 70 20 28.6% 17 24.3% 37 52.9% 33 47.1%
    2012 112 32 28.6% 26 23.2% 58 51.8% 54 48.2%
    2014 70 22 31.4% 13 18.6% 35 50.0% 35 50.0%
    2016 112 45 40.2% 25 22.3% 70 62.5% 42 37.5%
    2018 70 25 35.7% 13 18.6% 38 54.3% 32 45.7%


    See also:

    New York

    There were 213 seats up for election in New York, 129 (61%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 84 seats (39%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 194 seats (91%), 65 of which had no Republican competition, representing 31% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 148 seats (69%), 19 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 9% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in New York, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 150 49 32.7% 12 8.0% 61 40.7% 89 59.3%
    Senate 63 16 25.4% 7 11.1% 23 36.5% 40 63.5%
    Total 213 65 30.5% 19 8.9% 84 39.4% 129 60.6%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in New York, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 212 32 15.1% 16 7.5% 48 22.6% 164 77.4%
    2012 213 58 27.2% 22 10.3% 80 37.6% 133 62.4%
    2014 213 58 27.2% 32 15.0% 90 42.3% 123 57.7%
    2016 213 65 30.5% 25 11.7% 90 42.3% 123 57.7%
    2018 213 65 30.5% 19 8.9% 84 39.4% 129 60.6%


    See also:

    North Carolina

    There were 170 seats up for election in North Carolina, 167 (98%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 3 seats (2%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 169 seats (99%), two of which had no Republican competition, representing 1% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 168 seats (99%), one of which had no Democratic competition, representing 1% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in North Carolina, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 120 2 1.7% 1 0.8% 3 2.5% 117 97.5%
    Senate 50 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 50 100.0%
    Total 170 2 1.2% 1 0.6% 3 1.8% 167 98.2%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in North Carolina, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 170 14 8.2% 42 24.7% 56 32.9% 114 67.1%
    2012 170 34 20.0% 39 22.9% 73 42.9% 97 57.1%
    2014 170 36 21.2% 45 26.5% 81 47.6% 89 52.4%
    2016 170 37 21.8% 41 24.1% 78 45.9% 92 54.1%
    2018 170 2 1.2% 1 0.6% 3 1.8% 167 98.2%


    See also:

    North Dakota

    There were 72 seats up for election in North Dakota, 55 (76%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 17 seats (24%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 58 seats (81%), three of which had no Republican competition, representing 4% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 69 seats (96%), 14 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 19% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in North Dakota, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 48 2 4.2% 11 22.9% 13 27.1% 35 72.9%
    Senate 24 1 4.2% 3 12.5% 4 16.7% 20 83.3%
    Total 72 3 4.2% 14 19.4% 17 23.6% 55 76.4%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in North Dakota, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 72 3 4.2% 17 23.6% 20 27.8% 52 72.2%
    2012 75 5 6.7% 8 10.7% 13 17.3% 62 82.7%
    2014 72 6 8.3% 18 25.0% 24 33.3% 48 66.7%
    2016 69 1 1.4% 6 8.7% 7 10.1% 62 89.9%
    2018 72 3 4.2% 14 19.4% 17 23.6% 55 76.4%


    See also:

    Ohio

    There were 116 seats up for election in Ohio, 105 (91%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 11 seats (9%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 116 seats (100%), 11 of which had no Republican competition, representing 9% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 105 seats (91%), all of which featured Democratic competition.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Ohio, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 99 11 11.1% 0 0.0% 11 11.1% 88 88.9%
    Senate 17 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 17 100.0%
    Total 116 11 9.5% 0 0.0% 11 9.5% 105 90.5%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Ohio, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 116 9 7.8% 8 6.9% 17 14.7% 99 85.3%
    2012 117 9 7.7% 8 6.8% 17 14.5% 100 85.5%
    2014 116 7 6.0% 15 12.9% 22 19.0% 94 81.0%
    2016 115 8 7.0% 22 19.1% 30 26.1% 85 73.9%
    2018 116 11 9.5% 0 0.0% 11 9.5% 105 90.5%


    See also:

    Oklahoma

    There were 125 seats up for election in Oklahoma, 91 (73%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 34 seats (27%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 106 seats (85%), 15 of which had no Republican competition, representing 12% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 110 seats (88%), 19 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 15% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Oklahoma, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 101 12 11.9% 16 15.8% 28 27.7% 73 72.3%
    Senate 24 3 12.5% 3 12.5% 6 25.0% 18 75.0%
    Total 125 15 12.0% 19 15.2% 34 27.2% 91 72.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Oklahoma, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 125 22 17.6% 49 39.2% 71 56.8% 54 43.2%
    2012 125 21 16.8% 60 48.0% 81 64.8% 44 35.2%
    2014 125 21 16.8% 58 46.4% 79 63.2% 46 36.8%
    2016 125 11 8.8% 27 21.6% 38 30.4% 87 69.6%
    2018 125 15 12.0% 19 15.2% 34 27.2% 91 72.8%


    See also:

    Oregon

    There were 73 seats up for election in Oregon, 48 (66%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 25 seats (34%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 68 seats (93%), 20 of which had no Republican competition, representing 27% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 53 seats (73%), five of which had no Democratic competition, representing 7% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Oregon, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 58 16 27.6% 5 8.6% 21 36.2% 37 63.8%
    Senate 15 4 26.7% 0 0.0% 4 26.7% 11 73.3%
    Total 73 20 27.4% 5 6.8% 25 34.2% 48 65.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Oregon, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 76 3 3.9% 4 5.3% 7 9.2% 69 90.8%
    2012 76 5 6.6% 11 14.5% 16 21.1% 60 78.9%
    2014 75 17 22.7% 10 13.3% 27 36.0% 48 64.0%
    2016 75 18 24.0% 13 17.3% 31 41.3% 44 58.7%
    2018 73 20 27.4% 5 6.8% 25 34.2% 48 65.8%


    See also:

    Pennsylvania

    There were 228 seats up for election in Pennsylvania, 139 (61%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 89 seats (39%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 200 seats (88%), 61 of which had no Republican competition, representing 27% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 167 seats (73%), 28 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 12% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Pennsylvania, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 203 56 27.6% 27 13.3% 83 40.9% 120 59.1%
    Senate 25 5 20.0% 1 4.0% 6 24.0% 19 76.0%
    Total 228 61 26.8% 28 12.3% 89 39.0% 139 61.0%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Pennsylvania, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 228 43 18.9% 50 21.9% 93 40.8% 135 59.2%
    2012 228 53 23.2% 57 25.0% 110 48.2% 118 51.8%
    2014 228 62 27.2% 65 28.5% 127 55.7% 101 44.3%
    2016 228 53 23.2% 58 25.4% 111 48.7% 117 51.3%
    2018 228 61 26.8% 28 12.3% 89 39.0% 139 61.0%


    See also:

    Rhode Island

    There were 113 seats up for election in Rhode Island, 43 (38%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 70 seats (62%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 109 seats (96%), 66 of which had no Republican competition, representing 58% of all seats up for election. This guaranteed Democratic control of a majority of seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 47 seats (42%), four of which had no Democratic competition, representing 4% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Rhode Island, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 75 48 64.0% 3 4.0% 51 68.0% 24 32.0%
    Senate 38 18 47.4% 1 2.6% 19 50.0% 19 50.0%
    Total 113 66 58.4% 4 3.5% 70 61.9% 43 38.1%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Rhode Island, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 113 38 33.6% 4 3.5% 42 37.2% 71 62.8%
    2012 113 61 54.0% 4 3.5% 65 57.5% 48 42.5%
    2014 113 79 69.9% 4 3.5% 83 73.5% 30 26.5%
    2016 113 74 65.5% 4 3.5% 79[2] 69.9% 34 30.1%
    2018 113 66 58.4% 4 3.5% 70 61.9% 43 38.1%


    See also:

    South Carolina

    There were 124 seats up for election in South Carolina, 45 (36%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 79 seats (64%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 78 seats (63%), 33 of which had no Republican competition, representing 27% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 91 seats (73%), 46 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 37% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in South Carolina, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 124 33 26.6% 46 37.1% 79 63.7% 45 36.3%
    Senate Did not hold elections.
    Total 124 33 26.6% 46 37.1% 79 63.7% 45 36.3%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in South Carolina, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 124 36 29.0% 51 41.1% 87 70.2% 37 29.8%
    2012 170 19 11.2% 83 48.8% 102 60.0% 68 40.0%
    2014 124 32 25.8% 62 50.0% 94 75.8% 30 24.2%
    2016 170 45 26.5% 85 50.0% 130 76.5% 40 23.5%
    2018 124 33 26.6% 46 37.1% 79 63.7% 45 36.3%


    See also:

    South Dakota

    There were 105 seats up for election in South Dakota, 89 (85%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 16 seats (15%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 97 seats (92%), eight of which had no Republican competition, representing 8% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 97 seats (92%), eight of which had no Democratic competition, representing 8% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in South Dakota, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 70 6 8.6% 5 7.1% 11 15.7% 59 84.3%
    Senate 35 2 5.7% 3 8.6% 5 14.3% 30 85.7%
    Total 105 8 7.6% 8 7.6% 16 15.2% 89 84.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in South Dakota, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 105 14 13.3% 30 28.6% 44 41.9% 61 58.1%
    2012 105 11 10.5% 31 29.5% 42 40.0% 63 60.0%
    2014 105 15 14.3% 40 38.1% 55 52.4% 50 47.6%
    2016 105 14 13.3% 25 23.8% 39 37.1% 66 62.9%
    2018 105 8 7.6% 8 7.6% 16 15.2% 89 84.8%


    See also:

    Tennessee

    There were 116 seats up for election in Tennessee, 85 (73%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 31 seats (27%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 105 seats (91%), 20 of which had no Republican competition, representing 17% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 96 seats (83%), 11 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 9% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Tennessee, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 99 17 17.2% 9 9.1% 26 26.3% 73 73.7%
    Senate 17 3 17.6% 2 11.8% 5 29.4% 12 70.6%
    Total 116 20 17.2% 11 9.5% 31 26.7% 85 73.3%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Tennessee, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 116 17 14.7% 32 27.6% 49 42.2% 67 57.8%
    2012 115 16 13.9% 41 35.7% 57 49.6% 58 50.4%
    2014 116 17 14.7% 55 47.4% 72 62.1% 44 37.9%
    2016 115 18 15.7% 41 35.7% 59 51.3% 56 48.7%
    2018 116 20 17.2% 11 9.5% 31 26.7% 85 73.3%


    See also:

    Texas

    There were 165 seats up for election in Texas, 107 (65%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 58 seats (35%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 145 seats (88%), 38 of which had no Republican competition, representing 23% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 127 seats (77%), 20 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 12% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Texas, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 150 37 24.7% 18 12.0% 55 36.7% 95 63.3%
    Senate 15 1 6.7% 2 13.3% 3 20.0% 12 80.0%
    Total 165 38 23.0% 20 12.1% 58 35.2% 107 64.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Texas, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 166 38 22.9% 63 38.0% 101 60.8% 65 39.2%
    2012 181 38 21.0% 77 42.5% 115 63.5% 66 36.5%
    2014 165 46 27.9% 64 38.8% 110 66.7% 55 33.3%
    2016 166 44 26.5% 66 39.8% 110 66.3% 56 33.7%
    2018 165 38 23.0% 20 12.1% 58 35.2% 107 64.8%


    See also:

    Utah

    There were 89 seats up for election in Utah, 69 (78%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 20 seats (22%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 71 seats (80%), two of which had no Republican competition, representing 2% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 87 seats (98%), 18 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 20% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Utah, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 75 2 2.7% 15 20.0% 17 22.7% 58 77.3%
    Senate 14 0 0.0% 3 21.4% 3 21.4% 11 78.6%
    Total 89 2 2.2% 18 20.2% 20 22.5% 69 77.5%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Utah, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 90 1 1.1% 18 20.0% 19 21.1% 71 78.9%
    2012 91 1 1.1% 20 22.0% 21 23.1% 70 76.9%
    2014 89 4 4.5% 16 18.0% 20 22.5% 69 77.5%
    2016 90 6 6.7% 28 31.1% 34 37.8% 56 62.2%
    2018 89 2 2.2% 18 20.2% 20 22.5% 69 77.5%


    See also:

    Vermont

    There were 180 seats up for election in Vermont, 69 (38%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 111 seats (62%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 150 seats (83%), 81 of which had no Republican competition, representing 45% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 96 seats (53%), 27 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 15% of all seats up for election.
    • There were three seats uncontested by both major parties, guaranteeing those seats to minor party or independent candidates.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Vermont, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 150 68 45.3% 25 16.7% 96 64.0% 54 36.0%
    Senate 30 13 43.3% 2 6.7% 15 50.0% 15 50.0%
    Total 180 81 45.0% 27 15.0% 111 61.7% 69 38.3%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Vermont, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 180 54 30.0% 26 14.4% 80 44.4% 100 55.6%
    2012 180 84 46.7% 33 18.3% 120[3] 66.7% 60 33.3%
    2014 180 81 45.0% 28 15.6% 112[4] 62.2% 68 37.8%
    2016 180 65 36.1% 28 15.6% 95[5] 52.8% 85 47.2%
    2018 180 81 45.0% 27 15.0% 111[6] 61.7% 69 38.3%


    See also:

    Washington

    There were 123 seats up for election in Washington, 90 (73%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 33 seats (27%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 120 seats (98%), 30 of which had no Republican competition, representing 24% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 93 seats (76%), three of which had no Democratic competition, representing 2% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Washington, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 98 22 22.4% 2 2.0% 24 24.5% 74 75.5%
    Senate 25 8 32.0% 1 4.0% 9 36.0% 16 64.0%
    Total 123 30 24.4% 3 2.4% 33 26.8% 90 73.2%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Washington, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 123 18 14.6% 25 20.3% 43 35.0% 80 65.0%
    2012 124 24 19.4% 21 16.9% 45 36.3% 79 63.7%
    2014 123 23 18.7% 22 17.9% 45 36.6% 78 63.4%
    2016 124 33 26.6% 29 23.4% 62 50.0% 62 50.0%
    2018 123 30 24.4% 3 2.4% 33 26.8% 90 73.2%


    See also:

    West Virginia

    There were 117 seats up for election in West Virginia, 102 (87%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 15 seats (13%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 110 seats (94%), eight of which had no Republican competition, representing 7% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 109 seats (93%), seven of which had no Democratic competition, representing 6% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in West Virginia, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 100 8 8.0% 6 6.0% 14 14.0% 86 86.0%
    Senate 17 0 0.0% 1 5.9% 1 5.9% 16 94.1%
    Total 117 8 6.8% 7 6.0% 15 12.8% 102 87.2%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in West Virginia, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 117 31 26.5% 10 8.5% 41 35.0% 76 65.0%
    2012 117 25 21.4% 15 12.8% 40 34.2% 77 65.8%
    2014 117 3 2.6% 16 13.7% 19 16.2% 98 83.8%
    2016 117 2 1.7% 7 6.0% 9 7.7% 108 92.3%
    2018 117 8 6.8% 7 6.0% 15 12.8% 102 87.2%


    See also:

    Wisconsin

    There were 116 seats up for election in Wisconsin, 74 (64%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 42 seats (36%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 106 seats (91%), 32 of which had no Republican competition, representing 28% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 84 seats (72%), 10 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 9% of all seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Wisconsin, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 99 30 30.3% 8 8.1% 38 38.4% 61 61.6%
    Senate 17 2 11.8% 2 11.8% 4 23.5% 13 76.5%
    Total 116 32 27.6% 10 8.6% 42 36.2% 74 63.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Wisconsin, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 116 14 12.1% 19 16.4% 33 28.4% 83 71.6%
    2012 115 27 23.5% 6 5.2% 33 28.7% 82 71.3%
    2014 116 26 22.4% 30 25.9% 56 48.3% 60 51.7%
    2016 115 33 28.7% 24 20.9% 57 49.6% 58 50.4%
    2018 116 32 27.6% 10 8.6% 42 36.2% 74 63.8%


    See also:

    Wyoming

    There were 75 seats up for election in Wyoming, 26 (35%) of which were contested by both major parties. The remaining 49 seats (65%) had no major party competition.

    • Democrats ran for 31 seats (41%), five of which had no Republican competition, representing 7% of all seats up for election.
    • Republicans ran for 70 seats (93%), 44 of which had no Democratic competition, representing 59% of all seats up for election. This guaranteed Republican control of a majority of seats up for election.

    In 2018

    Statistics from 2018 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Wyoming, 2018
    Chamber Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 60 4 6.7% 36 60.0% 40 66.7% 20 33.3%
    Senate 15 1 6.7% 8 53.3% 9 60.0% 6 40.0%
    Total 75 5 6.7% 44 58.7% 49 65.3% 26 34.7%

    2010-2018

    Historical major party competition statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Major party competition in state legislative elections in Wyoming, 2010-2018
    Year Seats
    Uncontested Contested
    Only Democrats Only Republicans Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 75 7 9.3% 43 57.3% 50 66.7% 25 33.3%
    2012 75 4 5.3% 51 68.0% 55 73.3% 20 26.7%
    2014 75 5 6.7% 45 60.0% 50 66.7% 25 33.3%
    2016 75 6 8.0% 14 18.7% 20 26.7% 55 73.3%
    2018 75 5 6.7% 44 58.7% 49 65.3% 26 34.7%


    See also:

    Terms and definitions

    Major party competition

    Major party competition exists when candidates from both major parties—Democratic and Republican—appear on the general election ballot for a given seat.

    A seat lacks major party competition when at least one major party does not have a candidate on the ballot, effectively guaranteeing the seat to the other major party. This includes cases where no candidates from either major party appear on the ballot, guaranteeing that seat to a minor party or independent candidate.

    Seat

    State legislative seats represent the total number of candidates who can be elected. These totals may differ from state legislative districts.

    In most states, every state legislative district includes a single seat. These are referred to as single-member state legislative districts.

    Certain states have multi-member state legislative districts, where a single district contains multiple seats.

    Methodology

    Counting major party competition

    Major party competition is counted by seat.

    In a single-member district, major party competition exists when one Democrat and one Republican appear on the general election ballot.

    In multi-member districts, major party competition might exist for some seats while not existing for others.

    For example, in a district with three seats, if three Democrats and two Republicans appear on the general election ballot, two seats have major party competition, while one does not. This is because the number of Republicans on the ballot is less than the number of seats up for election, meaning, at most, Republicans could win two of the three seats with the remaining seat effectively guaranteed to be won by a Democrat.

    Major party competition is counted at the time of the general election. In states with top-two/four primaries, where every candidate appears on the same primary ballot regardless of political affiliation, this means only those candidates who advanced to the general election are counted. For example, if two Republicans and one Democrat ran in a top-two primary, and the two Republicans advanced to the general election, that seat is considered to have no major party competition since only one major party appears on the general election ballot.

    Candidacy withdrawals

    See also: Signature requirements and deadlines for 2018 state government elections

    Candidates may choose to withdraw before the general election takes place. Withdrawals include decisions to leave the race, disqualifications, and deaths. These withdrawals are either official or unofficial.

    An official withdrawal means the candidate withdrew before a specific date set in state law and their name was removed from the general election ballot. If a major party candidate officially withdraws before the general election, the number of seats without major party competition increases unless another candidate replaces them.

    An unofficial withdrawal means the candidate withdrew after a specific date set in state law, typically after ballots have been printed, meaning their name remains on the ballot even though they are not actively campaigning. If a major party candidate unofficially withdraws before the general election, major party competition figures are unchanged.

    Minor party and independent candidates

    This analysis does not account for the presence of minor party and independent candidates on the general election ballot when determining major party competition.

    For example, if a Republican candidate is on the general election ballot running against an independent candidate, that seat is not considered to have major party competition, since no Democratic candidates are present.

    This is why seats contested by only one major party are referred to as guaranteed to the major party with a candidate on the ballot. While minor party and independent candidates can win state legislative elections, it is rare. Heading into the 2018 elections, minor party or independent legislators held 0.5% of the nation's 7,383 state legislative seats.

    Major party write-in candidates

    Most states allow voters to write in the name of some other candidate when casting a ballot. Write-in candidates affiliated with a major party are not accounted for when determining major party competition unless that write-in candidate wins the general election. In these instances, major party competition figures are updated retroactively.

    Calculating the total number of seats contested by a party

    While this analysis does not focus on the total number of seats each major party contested, those totals can be calculated using the information above.

    • The total number of seats contested by Democrats is equal to the total number of seats with only Democrats on the ballot plus the number of seats contested by both major parties.
    • The total number of seats contested by Republicans is equal to the total number of seats with only Republicans on the ballot plus the number of seats contested by both major parties.

    See also

    Footnotes

    1. Includes one seat that was not contested by either major party, guaranteeing it to a minor party or independent candidate.
    2. Includes one seat that was not contested by either major party, guaranteeing it to a minor party or independent candidate.
    3. Includes three seats that were not contested by either major party, guaranteeing them to minor party or independent candidates.
    4. Includes three seats that were not contested by either major party, guaranteeing them to minor party or independent candidates.
    5. Includes two seats that were not contested by either major party, guaranteeing them to minor party or independent candidates.
    6. Includes three seats that were not contested by either major party, guaranteeing them to minor party or independent candidates.