Prominent Dems abandon National Governors Association 

Two major Democratic governors are reportedly ditching the National Governors Association, citing the group’s lack of resistance to President Donald Trump’s policies and insufficient defense of state interests.

Gov. Laura Kelly’s statement

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, who currently chairs the Democratic Governors Association, confirmed her departure, stating that the NGA no longer provides sufficient value to her state. “I just felt like Kansas was not getting a return on investment, and we will keep our eyes on it,” Kelly told 27 News. “The NGA does some very good things particularly in the area of training for governor’s staff, but there also needs to be a state rights advocate, and I think they’ve sort of fallen down on that role.” Kelly indicated she may consider rejoining the NGA if the organization renews its focus on state advocacy.

Gov. Tim Walz’s reported exit

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, a former chair of the DGA, is also reportedly distancing himself from the group. While he has not yet made a public statement, ABC News reports that Walz plans to stop paying dues next year as he reevaluates his relationship with the NGA.

Trouble at the National Governors Association

The reported exits come at a time when the NGA is facing criticism for moving away from bipartisan collaboration, as well as failing to advocate for states during ongoing uncertainty around Trump’s policies. According to ABC News, both governors are concerned about recent slashes to federal funding. This shift seemingly marks a departure from the NGA’s historical role as a defender of state priorities. A source familiar with Kelly’s outlook said the NGA is “not living up to the most fundamental aspect of its mission statement” and added that Congress and the Trump administration are “dismantling solutions-based governance.”

What the National Governors Association Says 

In response to the reported departures, NGA spokesperson Eric Wohlschlegel emphasized the group’s ongoing participation across party lines. The organization “continues to see strong engagement from governors across the country, with record attendance at recent convenings and bipartisan participation across all major initiatives,” he claimed.

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