Republican governors gear up for a conservative push as Kemp and Gianforte take the helm of the RGA for 2025.
At a Glance
- Governors Brian Kemp (GA) and Greg Gianforte (MT) elected as RGA chair and vice chair for 2025
- Republicans maintain 27-23 advantage over Democrats in governorships
- Both leaders pledge to work closely with President-elect Donald Trump
- Focus on tax cuts, infrastructure, education, and border security
- Key gubernatorial races in Virginia and New Jersey on the horizon for 2025
Conservative Leadership Takes the Reins
In a move that signals a strengthening of conservative leadership, the Republican Governors Association (RGA) has appointed Georgia Governor Brian Kemp as chair and Montana Governor Greg Gianforte as vice chair for 2025. This strategic decision comes in the wake of President-elect Donald Trump’s victory and aims to solidify Republican control in state houses across the nation.
The appointments, effective immediately, position these governors at the forefront of Republican policy-making and electoral strategy. With 27 Republican governors currently in office, compared to 23 Democrats, the GOP is looking to expand its influence in upcoming elections, particularly in Virginia and New Jersey in 2025.
A United Front with Trump
Both Kemp and Gianforte have made it clear that they intend to work closely with President-elect Trump, signaling a united Republican front. This alliance is particularly noteworthy given the pivotal roles both governors played in securing Trump’s victory in their respective states during the 2024 election.
“I look forward to working with my fellow Republican governors and President Trump to keep getting the job done for the American people and to add even more Republican governors to our ranks,” said Governor Kemp, emphasizing the commitment to expanding Republican leadership at the state level.
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp was elected to chair the Republican Governors Association. Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte to serve as vice chair https://t.co/4tSEEc8f2n
— Kadia Goba (@kadiagoba) November 20, 2024
Conservative Policies at the Forefront
The newly elected RGA leadership is set to double down on core Republican values and policies. Governor Gianforte outlined their priorities, stating, “Republican governors are cutting taxes, investing in infrastructure and our workforce, putting parents, students, and teachers first, and helping secure the border.”
The focus on fiscal conservatism, education reform, and border security aligns closely with the national Republican agenda and President-elect Trump’s campaign promises. The emphasis on these issues is likely to resonate with the conservative base and potentially attract moderate voters concerned about economic stability and national security.
Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond
As the RGA sets its sights on the future, the upcoming gubernatorial races in Virginia and New Jersey in 2025 will be critical tests of the new leadership’s effectiveness. With both current governors in these states term-limited, Republicans see an opportunity to flip these seats and further strengthen their majority.
The success of Republican governors in implementing conservative policies and fostering economic growth will be key selling points. Montana’s impressive record of 40 consecutive months of unemployment at or below 3.4%, significantly outperforming the national average, serves as a prime example of the potential benefits of Republican governance.
