RUFUS – Incumbent Governor Rachel Hopkins has officially defeated Republican James Dunbar during the 2026 Gubernatorial election after two days of vote counting resulted in her reelection. She will assume her fourth term on March 15 with her four swearing-in being conducted at the State capitol at 9:00 AM.

In her victory speech, she thanked her supporters, friends, family, campaign staff, and the voters. She said without them, there would be a new governor and the progress she worked so hard to make, would be lost to Republican bigotry and hatred.

“I first and foremost want to thank the incredible voters, campaign staff, friends and my family for all of their hard work and dedication to keeping our state solidly Nationalist,” said Governor Hopkins. “Following our victory, we have secured another two years of prosperity for the LGBTQ community and will continue to push for equity as we work to advocate and push the federal government to end their hatred for the community and work to protect these groups. We will accomplish this by telling President Jay Laylin that we will not stand for his hate and will reject his anti-LGBTQ stances and policies.”

She confirmed that she would push for more inclusive legislation that protects the rights of transgender students from being pushed out of sports due to their gender identity. She says that she will also continue to work with Republicans to get her healthcare reform act bill passed through the House come the start of the new session on June 22.

“James Dunbar called to congratulate me and concede the election and thanked him for a hard-fought campaign,” continued Governor Hopkins. “He said that he hopes nothing but the best for the State, and for the health and safety of me and my family. Together we will work to make Porter safe, secure and welcoming for all. Thank you all for reelecting me.”

Several anti-Nationalist groups have pushed for a recount, but Dunbar referred back to his promise to accept the results of the election, which he is faithfully sticking by. He says no recount is necessary and will not try to get a recount process going.

“I think James Dunbar should push for a recount,” said Naddy, a member of the Anti-Nationalist group. “This election was stolen from Dunbar and I think it’s time for a full recount of votes. There is no way he lost this election. He was trailing miles ahead and suddenly he lost this election. I call crap on that.”

Dunbar says he will support Governor Hopkins in any way she needs as she prepares to assume her fourth term in office, and is urging his supporters to stop the calls for recounts and other threats to her and her campaign.