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Open seats in state legislative elections, 2018

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Last updated on November 18, 2024
2018 State Legislative Competitiveness
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Contents


There were6,065 state legislative seats up for election on November 6, 2018, in 46 states. Of that total, there were1,194 open seats, guaranteeing at least20% of all seats would be won by newcomers. This was the second-highest number and percentage of open seats since Ballotpedia began gathering data in 2010.

An open seat is one where no incumbent filed to run, meaning it is guaranteed to be won by a newcomer. Learn more about theterms and methodologies used in this analysis.

Ballotpedia uses the number and percentage of open seats to help determine the overall competitiveness of an election cycle. A greater number of open seats guarantees more newcomers entering legislatures and typically results in more candidates running for office. A smaller number of open seats guarantees fewer newcomers and typically results in fewer candidates running for office.

In 2018:

  • There were443 open Democratic seats, those most recently held by Democrats at the time of filing.
  • There were743 open Republican seats, those most recently held by Republicans at the time of filing.
  • There wereeight other open seats. This includes those most recently held by minor party or independent officeholders at the time of filing.
  • The total number of open seats—1,194—was the second-highest since Ballotpedia began gathering data in 2010, representing a 16% increase from 2016.


  • Open state legislative seats, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House4,956362577594419.0%
    Senate1,10981166325022.5%
    Total6,06544374381,19419.7%


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

    Open state legislative seats, 2018
    StateSeatsDemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal%
    Nationwide6,06544374381,19419.7%
    Alabama14092903827.1%
    Alaska507601326.0%
    Arizona90141903336.7%
    Arkansas11871602319.5%
    California1007701414.0%
    Colorado8215912530.5%
    Connecticut187131102412.8%
    Delaware519501427.5%
    Florida14092903827.1%
    Georgia2361190208.5%
    Hawaii63810914.3%
    Idaho10531301615.2%
    Illinois157111702817.8%
    Indiana1255901411.2%
    Iowa12571412217.6%
    Kansas12501301310.4%
    Kentucky119111002117.6%
    Maine186163645630.1%
    Maryland188291003920.7%
    Massachusetts20020402412.0%
    Michigan148264407047.3%
    Minnesota13416702317.2%
    Missouri180164706335.0%
    Montana125162003628.8%
    Nebraska24260833.3%
    Nevada537711528.3%
    New Hampshire4243965110524.8%
    New Mexico70360912.9%
    New York213990188.5%
    North Carolina17051401911.2%
    North Dakota723901216.7%
    Ohio116152704236.2%
    Oklahoma125123104334.4%
    Oregon73260811.0%
    Pennsylvania22872503214.0%
    Rhode Island11311401513.3%
    South Carolina12426086.5%
    South Dakota10571902624.8%
    Tennessee11691802723.3%
    Texas1651130148.5%
    Utah8932102427.0%
    Vermont180161603217.8%
    Washington12351201713.8%
    West Virginia11731501815.4%
    Wisconsin11651101613.8%
    Wyoming752801013.3%

    Historical comparison

    The chart below shows a breakdown of open seats from 2010 to 2018. The "Other" value includes seats left open by minor party and independent officeholders.


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

    Open state legislative seats, 2010-2018
    State
    20102012201420162018
    #%#%#%#%#%
    Nationwide1,14318.7%1,31421.9%1,01916.8%1,03217.4%1,19419.7%
    Alabama1913.6%--2115.0%--3827.1%
    Alaska510.0%1118.6%814.8%918.0%1326.0%
    Arizona3943.3%3235.6%2426.7%2628.9%3336.7%
    Arkansas5345.3%4734.8%3126.3%1512.8%2319.5%
    California3838.0%4444.0%3333.0%2626.0%1414.0%
    Colorado2023.8%3338.8%2328.0%2428.9%2530.5%
    Connecticut1910.2%2412.8%2412.8%2312.3%2412.8%
    Delaware47.7%1016.1%23.9%23.8%1427.5%
    Florida4632.2%5333.1%1812.9%6238.8%3827.1%
    Georgia3816.1%2811.9%177.2%218.9%208.5%
    Hawaii812.1%810.5%57.9%34.7%914.3%
    Idaho98.6%3634.3%1110.5%98.6%1615.2%
    Illinois128.6%3419.2%128.8%148.9%2817.8%
    Indiana129.6%2318.4%86.4%1713.6%1411.2%
    Iowa1713.6%3023.8%1512.0%1310.4%2217.6%
    Kansas108.0%5231.5%1310.4%3320.0%1310.4%
    Kentucky75.9%1310.9%119.2%108.4%2117.6%
    Maine4323.1%6333.9%5127.4%3719.9%5630.1%
    Maryland2613.8%--5227.7%--3920.7%
    Massachusetts3417.0%105.0%2211.0%136.5%2412.0%
    Michigan8054.1%2220.0%5134.5%4238.2%7047.3%
    Minnesota2411.9%5125.4%1511.2%2813.9%2317.2%
    Missouri7541.7%6133.9%3318.3%3821.1%6335.0%
    Montana5140.5%4434.9%4536.0%4737.6%3628.8%
    Nebraska312.5%936.0%1770.8%1144.0%833.3%
    Nevada2750.9%1630.8%1018.9%1121.2%1528.3%
    New Hampshire10224.1%12529.5%11326.7%11827.8%10524.8%
    New Mexico34.3%2219.6%1115.7%108.9%912.9%
    New York2511.8%2411.3%219.9%198.9%188.5%
    North Carolina1810.6%4627.1%148.2%2011.8%1911.2%
    North Dakota1520.8%1824.0%1318.1%1521.7%1216.7%
    Ohio2925.0%1916.2%2622.4%2925.2%4236.2%
    Oklahoma2217.6%2318.4%3024.0%4132.8%4334.4%
    Oregon79.2%1013.2%1520.0%1722.7%811.0%
    Pennsylvania219.2%2511.0%2711.8%198.3%3214.0%
    Rhode Island1513.3%1311.5%87.1%87.1%1513.3%
    South Carolina129.7%2414.1%97.3%1710.0%86.5%
    South Dakota3432.4%3129.5%3129.5%4240.0%2624.8%
    Tennessee108.6%2118.3%1210.3%65.2%2723.3%
    Texas95.4%3519.3%159.1%169.6%148.5%
    Utah910.0%1516.5%1213.5%1415.6%2427.0%
    Vermont2111.7%2614.4%2715.0%2815.6%3217.8%
    Washington2016.3%2621.0%129.8%2116.9%1713.8%
    West Virginia1412.0%1916.2%119.4%2521.4%1815.4%
    Wisconsin2319.8%2320.0%2925.0%1311.3%1613.8%
    Wyoming1520.0%1520.0%1114.7%2026.7%1013.3%

    By state

    Overview

    Alabama

    There were 140 seats up for election in Alabama. Of that total,38 seats (27.1%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Alabama, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House10581902725.7%
    Senate3511001131.4%
    Total14092903827.1%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Alabama, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201014011801913.6%
    2012Did not hold elections.
    201414061412115.0%
    2016Did not hold elections.
    201814092903827.1%


    See also:

    Alaska

    There were 50 seats up for election in Alaska. Of that total,13 seats (26.0%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Alaska, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House40540922.5%
    Senate10220440.0%
    Total507601326.0%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Alaska, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201050140510.0%
    2012594611118.6%
    201454350814.8%
    201650180918.0%
    2018507601326.0%


    See also:

    Arizona

    There were 90 seats up for election in Arizona. Of that total,33 seats (36.7%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Arizona, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House6091001931.7%
    Senate305901446.7%
    Total90141903336.7%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Arizona, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201090172203943.3%
    20129052613235.6%
    201490101402426.7%
    201690101602628.9%
    201890141903336.7%


    See also:

    Arkansas

    There were 118 seats up for election in Arkansas. Of that total,23 seats (19.5%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Arkansas, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House10061301919.0%
    Senate18130422.2%
    Total11871602319.5%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Arkansas, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201011744905345.3%
    2012135321504734.8%
    2014118121903126.3%
    20161175911512.8%
    201811871602319.5%


    See also:

    California

    There were 100 seats up for election in California. Of that total,14 seats (14.0%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in California, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House8043078.8%
    Senate20340735.0%
    Total1007701414.0%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in California, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010100201713838.0%
    2012100271704444.0%
    2014100221103333.0%
    2016100161002626.0%
    20181007701414.0%


    See also:

    Colorado

    There were 82 seats up for election in Colorado. Of that total,25 seats (30.5%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Colorado, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House6511601726.2%
    Senate17431847.1%
    Total8215912530.5%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Colorado, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    20108411902023.8%
    201285151803338.8%
    20148281502328.0%
    20168318602428.9%
    20188215912530.5%


    See also:

    Connecticut

    There were 187 seats up for election in Connecticut. Of that total,24 seats (12.8%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Connecticut, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House15110701711.3%
    Senate36340719.4%
    Total187131102412.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Connecticut, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201018713601910.2%
    201218717702412.8%
    2014187141002412.8%
    2016187121102312.3%
    2018187131102412.8%


    See also:

    Delaware

    There were 51 seats up for election in Delaware. Of that total,14 seats (27.5%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Delaware, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House416401024.4%
    Senate10310440.0%
    Total519501427.5%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Delaware, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    20105204047.7%
    2012625501016.1%
    20145120023.9%
    20165211023.8%
    2018519501427.5%


    See also:

    Florida

    There were 140 seats up for election in Florida. Of that total,38 seats (27.1%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Florida, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House12092603529.2%
    Senate20030315.0%
    Total14092903827.1%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Florida, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010143133304632.2%
    2012160163705333.1%
    201414061201812.9%
    2016160243806238.8%
    201814092903827.1%


    See also:

    Georgia

    There were 236 seats up for election in Georgia. Of that total,20 seats (8.5%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Georgia, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House1801160179.4%
    Senate5603035.4%
    Total2361190208.5%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Georgia, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201023692903816.1%
    2012236101802811.9%
    20142364130177.2%
    20162367131218.9%
    20182361190208.5%


    See also:

    Hawaii

    There were 63 seats up for election in Hawaii. Of that total,nine seats (14.3%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Hawaii, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House51610713.7%
    Senate12200216.7%
    Total63810914.3%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Hawaii, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201066620812.1%
    201276710810.5%
    20146341057.9%
    20166430034.7%
    201863810914.3%

    See also:

    Idaho

    There were 105 seats up for election in Idaho. Of that total,16 seats (15.2%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Idaho, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House703901217.1%
    Senate35040411.4%
    Total10531301615.2%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Idaho, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201010563098.6%
    201210592703634.3%
    20141055601110.5%
    201610545098.6%
    201810531301615.2%


    See also:

    Illinois

    There were 157 seats up for election in Illinois. Of that total,28 seats (17.8%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Illinois, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House11881302117.8%
    Senate39340717.9%
    Total157111702817.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Illinois, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010139840128.6%
    2012177171703419.2%
    20141371110128.8%
    2016158770148.9%
    2018157111702817.8%


    See also:

    Indiana

    There were 125 seats up for election in Indiana. Of that total,14 seats (11.2%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Indiana, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House1005701212.0%
    Senate2502028.0%
    Total1255901411.2%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Indiana, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010125660129.6%
    2012125121102318.4%
    201412517086.4%
    201612561101713.6%
    20181255901411.2%

    See also:

    Iowa

    There were 125 seats up for election in Iowa. Of that total,22 seats (17.6%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Iowa, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House10041201616.0%
    Senate25321624.0%
    Total12571412217.6%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Iowa, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201012510701713.6%
    2012126102003023.8%
    20141256901512.0%
    20161255801310.4%
    201812571412217.6%


    See also:

    Kansas

    There were 125 seats up for election in Kansas. Of that total,13 seats (10.4%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Kansas, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House12501301310.4%
    SenateDid not hold elections
    Total12501301310.4%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Kansas, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010125460108.0%
    201216584405231.5%
    201412531001310.4%
    201616523103320.0%
    201812501301310.4%


    See also:

    Kentucky

    There were 119 seats up for election in Kentucky. Of that total,21 seats (17.6%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Kentucky, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House10011902020.0%
    Senate1901015.3%
    Total119111002117.6%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Kentucky, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201011943075.9%
    20121195801310.9%
    2014119371119.2%
    2016119460108.4%
    2018119111002117.6%


    See also:

    Maine

    There were 186 seats up for election in Maine. Of that total,56 seats (30.1%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Maine, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House151152544429.1%
    Senate3511101234.3%
    Total186163645630.1%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Maine, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010186212114323.1%
    2012186333006333.9%
    2014186272225127.4%
    201618624943719.9%
    2018186163645630.1%


    See also:

    Maryland

    There were 188 seats up for election in Maryland. Of that total,39 seats (20.7%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Maryland, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House14120902920.6%
    Senate479101021.3%
    Total188291003920.7%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Maryland, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010188161002613.8%
    2012Did not hold elections.
    2014188331905227.7%
    2016Did not hold elections.
    2018188291003920.7%


    See also:

    Massachusetts

    There were 200 seats up for election in Massachusetts. Of that total,24 seats (12.0%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Massachusetts, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House16016402012.5%
    Senate40400410.0%
    Total20020402412.0%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Massachusetts, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201020028603417.0%
    2012200910105.0%
    201420019302211.0%
    20162001300136.5%
    201820020402412.0%


    See also:

    Michigan

    There were 148 seats up for election in Michigan. Of that total,70 seats (47.3%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Michigan, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House110182504339.1%
    Senate3881902771.1%
    Total148264407047.3%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Michigan, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010148433708054.1%
    201211013902220.0%
    2014148212915134.5%
    2016110152704238.2%
    2018148264407047.3%


    See also:

    Minnesota

    There were 134 seats up for election in Minnesota. Of that total,23 seats (17.2%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Minnesota, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House13416702317.2%
    SenateDid not hold elections
    Total13416702317.2%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Minnesota, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010201121202411.9%
    2012201183305125.4%
    201413451001511.2%
    2016201181002813.9%
    201813416702317.2%


    See also:

    Missouri

    There were 180 seats up for election in Missouri. Of that total,63 seats (35.0%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Missouri, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House163154005533.7%
    Senate17170847.1%
    Total180164706335.0%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Missouri, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010180264907541.7%
    2012180214006133.9%
    2014180102303318.3%
    2016180162203821.1%
    2018180164706335.0%


    See also:

    Montana

    There were 125 seats up for election in Montana. Of that total,36 seats (28.8%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Montana, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House100131502828.0%
    Senate25350832.0%
    Total125162003628.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Montana, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010126252605140.5%
    2012126192504434.9%
    2014125192604536.0%
    2016125173004737.6%
    2018125162003628.8%


    See also:

    Nebraska

    There were 24 seats up for election in Nebraska. Of that total,eight seats (33.3%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Nebraska, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    HouseN/A
    Senate24260833.3%
    Total24260833.3%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Nebraska, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201024111312.5%
    201225180936.0%
    2014248811770.8%
    2016254701144.0%
    201824260833.3%


    See also:

    Nevada

    There were 53 seats up for election in Nevada. Of that total,15 seats (28.3%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Nevada, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House426401023.8%
    Senate11131545.5%
    Total537711528.3%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Nevada, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201053161102750.9%
    2012528801630.8%
    2014536401018.9%
    2016522901121.2%
    2018537711528.3%


    See also:

    New Hampshire

    There were 424 seats up for election in New Hampshire. Of that total,105 seats (24.8%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in New Hampshire, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House4003963110325.8%
    Senate2402028.3%
    Total4243965110524.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in New Hampshire, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    20104246141010224.1%
    201242415486212529.5%
    20144246251011326.7%
    20164244672011827.8%
    20184243965110524.8%


    See also:

    New Mexico

    There were 70 seats up for election in New Mexico. Of that total,nine seats (12.9%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in New Mexico, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House70360912.9%
    SenateDid not hold elections
    Total70360912.9%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in New Mexico, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    20107012034.3%
    201211214802219.6%
    2014706501115.7%
    2016112550108.9%
    201870360912.9%


    See also:

    New York

    There were 213 seats up for election in New York. Of that total,18 seats (8.5%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in New York, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House150940138.7%
    Senate6305057.9%
    Total213990188.5%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in New York, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010212131202511.8%
    2012213121202411.3%
    20142131470219.9%
    20162131090198.9%
    2018213990188.5%


    See also:

    North Carolina

    There were 170 seats up for election in North Carolina. Of that total,19 seats (11.2%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in North Carolina, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House1204801210.0%
    Senate50160714.0%
    Total17051401911.2%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in North Carolina, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201017011701810.6%
    2012170232304627.1%
    2014170680148.2%
    201617041512011.8%
    201817051401911.2%


    See also:

    North Dakota

    There were 72 seats up for election in North Dakota. Of that total,12 seats (16.7%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in North Dakota, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House48250714.6%
    Senate24140520.8%
    Total723901216.7%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in North Dakota, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    20107210501520.8%
    20127571101824.0%
    20147231001318.1%
    20166931201521.7%
    2018723901216.7%


    See also:

    Ohio

    There were 116 seats up for election in Ohio. Of that total,42 seats (36.2%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Ohio, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House99112103232.3%
    Senate174601058.8%
    Total116152704236.2%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Ohio, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010116151402925.0%
    201211761301916.2%
    2014116151102622.4%
    201611592002925.2%
    2018116152704236.2%


    See also:

    Oklahoma

    There were 125 seats up for election in Oklahoma. Of that total,43 seats (34.4%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Oklahoma, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House10192303231.7%
    Senate243801145.8%
    Total125123104334.4%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Oklahoma, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010125111102217.6%
    2012125111202318.4%
    2014125111903024.0%
    2016125142704132.8%
    2018125123104334.4%


    See also:

    Oregon

    There were 73 seats up for election in Oregon. Of that total,eight seats (11.0%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Oregon, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House58250712.1%
    Senate1501016.7%
    Total73260811.0%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Oregon, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    20107643079.2%
    2012767301013.2%
    20147551001520.0%
    20167512501722.7%
    201873260811.0%


    See also:

    Pennsylvania

    There were 228 seats up for election in Pennsylvania. Of that total,32 seats (14.0%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Pennsylvania, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House20372102813.8%
    Senate25040416.0%
    Total22872503214.0%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Pennsylvania, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    20102281560219.2%
    2012228131202511.0%
    201422881902711.8%
    20162287120198.3%
    201822872503214.0%


    See also:

    Rhode Island

    There were 113 seats up for election in Rhode Island. Of that total,15 seats (13.3%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Rhode Island, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House758201013.3%
    Senate38320513.2%
    Total11311401513.3%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Rhode Island, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201011314101513.3%
    201211310301311.5%
    201411362087.1%
    201611334187.1%
    201811311401513.3%


    See also:

    South Carolina

    There were 124 seats up for election in South Carolina. Of that total,eight seats (6.5%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in South Carolina, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House12426086.5%
    SenateDid not hold elections
    Total12426086.5%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in South Carolina, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010124390129.7%
    2012170121202414.1%
    201412445097.3%
    201617071001710.0%
    201812426086.5%


    See also:

    South Dakota

    There were 105 seats up for election in South Dakota. Of that total,26 seats (24.8%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in South Dakota, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House7041401825.7%
    Senate35350822.9%
    Total10571902624.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in South Dakota, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010105112303432.4%
    201210562503129.5%
    201410582303129.5%
    2016105103204240.0%
    201810571902624.8%


    See also:

    Tennessee

    There were 116 seats up for election in Tennessee. Of that total,27 seats (23.3%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Tennessee, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House9971702424.2%
    Senate17210317.6%
    Total11691802723.3%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Tennessee, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    2010116280108.6%
    201211514702118.3%
    20141164801210.3%
    201611515065.2%
    201811691802723.3%


    See also:

    Texas

    There were 165 seats up for election in Texas. Of that total,14 seats (8.5%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Texas, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House1501120138.7%
    Senate1501016.7%
    Total1651130148.5%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Texas, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201016636095.4%
    201218182703519.3%
    20141652130159.1%
    20161664120169.6%
    20181651130148.5%


    See also:

    Utah

    There were 89 seats up for election in Utah. Of that total,24 seats (27.0%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Utah, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House7521601824.0%
    Senate14150642.9%
    Total8932102427.0%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Utah, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201090180910.0%
    20129121301516.5%
    2014895701213.5%
    20169001311415.6%
    20188932102427.0%


    See also:

    Vermont

    There were 180 seats up for election in Vermont. Of that total,32 seats (17.8%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Vermont, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House150141402818.7%
    Senate30220413.3%
    Total180161603217.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Vermont, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201018012812111.7%
    201218079102614.4%
    201418018722715.0%
    201618024402815.6%
    2018180161603217.8%


    See also:

    Washington

    There were 123 seats up for election in Washington. Of that total,17 seats (13.8%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Washington, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House9841001414.3%
    Senate25120312.0%
    Total12351201713.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Washington, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201012319102016.3%
    2012124161002621.0%
    2014123660129.8%
    2016124101102116.9%
    201812351201713.8%


    See also:

    West Virginia

    There were 117 seats up for election in West Virginia. Of that total,18 seats (15.4%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in West Virginia, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House10031501818.0%
    Senate1700000.0%
    Total11731501815.4%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in West Virginia, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    20101178601412.0%
    20121175681916.2%
    2014117650119.4%
    2016117111402521.4%
    201811731501815.4%


    See also:

    Wisconsin

    There were 116 seats up for election in Wisconsin. Of that total,16 seats (13.8%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Wisconsin, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House994901313.1%
    Senate17120317.6%
    Total11651101613.8%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Wisconsin, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    201011681412319.8%
    201211514812320.0%
    201411692002925.0%
    20161155801311.3%
    201811651101613.8%


    See also:

    Wyoming

    There were 75 seats up for election in Wyoming. Of that total,10 seats (13.3%) were open.

    In 2018

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

    Open state legislative seats in Wyoming, 2018
    ChamberSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    House60250711.7%
    Senate15030320.0%
    Total752801013.3%

    2010-2018

    Historical open seat statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Open state legislative seats in Wyoming, 2010-2018
    YearSeats
    DemocraticRepublicanOtherTotal
    #%
    20107551001520.0%
    20127531201520.0%
    20147511001114.7%
    20167521802026.7%
    2018752801013.3%


    See also:

    Impact of term limits

    See also:Impact of term limits on state legislative elections in 2018

    A seat can become open when an incumbent isterm-limited. Fifteen state legislatures have term limits, which require incumbents to leave office after serving a certain length of time.

    In 2018,271 state legislators—96 state senators and 175 state representatives—were term-limited. This represented4% of the 6,065 total seats up for election, and23% of the 1,194 open seats.[1]


    2018 term-limited incumbents
    Party# of termed senators # of termed representativesTotal
    Democratic285886
    Republican62115177
    Minor Party/
    Nonpartisan
    6[2]28
    Total96175271


    Terms and methodologies

    Incumbent

    See also:Incumbent

    Ballotpedia defines incumbency by chamber. Under this definition, if an incumbent in House District 1 filed for re-election in House District 2, they would still be counted as an incumbent due to their remaining in the same chamber even though they ran for a different seat. If an incumbent in House District 1 filed to run in Senate District 2, they would not be counted as an incumbent in the Senate race since they are coming from a different chamber.

    Ballotpedia uses the termre-elect to refer to any incumbent who is running in an election to retain their office, including incumbents who were originally appointed to their position.

    Open seat

    An open seat is one where no incumbents filed to run, or filed but withdrew and did not appear on any ballot for the seat. Open seat figures freeze at the time of the primary unless an incumbent did not participate in the primary but later chose to seek re-election as a minor party or independent candidate, in which case the seat for which they filed would not be counted as open.

    If a seat was open at the time of the primary, but a non-incumbent candidate later assumed office (via special election or appointment), the seat would still be counted as open since the original incumbent did not file to run in the primary.

    Seat

    State legislativeseats represent the total number of candidates who can be elected. These totals may differ from state legislativedistricts.

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

    Certain states havemulti-member state legislative districts, where a single district contains multiple seats. In these districts, open seat figures pertain to individual seats. For example, if a multi-member district contains three seats and two incumbents file for re-election but one does not, that one seat would be counted as an open seat.

    Difference between open seats and retiring incumbents

    An open seat is one where no incumbents filed to run. Typically, this occurs when an incumbent leaves office. But incumbents may choose to run for some other seat within the same chamber. When this happens, that incumbent's original seat can be left open without the incumbent leaving office.

    See also

    Footnotes

    1. Some of the 271 term-limited state legislators in 2018 may have resigned before their term ended. These legislators were still counted in the total number of term-limited legislators in 2018.
    2. Nebraska senators are officially nonpartisan. Five Nebraska senators term-limited in 2018 were affiliated with the Republican Party, while the other was affiliated with the Democratic Party.
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