Governing names 2026 Public Officials of the Year

Governing announced its 2026 Public Officials of the Year on September 1, recognizing six state and local leaders for practical leadership on transit, housing, AI policy, digital services, budgeting and economic growth. The honorees reflect the magazine’s focus on officials turning ideas into measurable improvements for residents.

Why it matters: - The 2026 class spotlights public officials using pragmatic, results-driven approaches to improve day-to-day government services. - The honorees are working on issues with direct impact for residents, including transit reliability, housing affordability, workforce development, privacy, digital access and budgeting. - Governing framed the awards as recognition for leaders navigating rapid change, complex operations and higher public expectations.

What happened: - Governing announced its 2026 Public Officials of the Year on September 1, 2026. - The magazine selected six honorees from state and local government. - The recipients, listed alphabetically, are Randy Clarke, Kirk Cullimore, Andre Dickens, Santiago Garces, Laura Kelly and Kristin Walker. - Governing said the winners were chosen for turning ideas into action and improving outcomes for residents.

The details: - Randy Clarke, general manager of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, was recognized for restoring confidence in a major transit system through improvements in safety, reliability and customer experience. - Kirk Cullimore, Utah Senate majority leader, was honored for shaping policy conversations around AI, privacy and digital identity. - Andre Dickens, mayor of Atlanta, was recognized for work on housing affordability, workforce development and public safety. - Santiago Garces, former Boston CIO, was recognized for using artificial intelligence to simplify permitting, improve online services and expand digital access. - Laura Kelly, governor of Kansas, was honored for bipartisan and fiscally responsible leadership tied to economic growth and long-term investment. - Kristin Walker, North Carolina budget director, was recognized for strengthening evidence-based budgeting so taxpayer dollars produce better outcomes. - Governing said the honorees are addressing some of the most consequential challenges in state and local government. - Governing directed readers to full profiles of the honorees.

Between the lines: - The list leans toward officials who improve systems rather than make splashy announcements. - The award also signals growing interest in public-sector uses of artificial intelligence, especially when paired with service delivery and policy guardrails. - Several honorees were recognized for work that bridges politics and operations, suggesting Governing values execution as much as policy vision.

What's next: - Governing will continue highlighting the honorees through their full profiles on governing.com/poy. - The recognition may elevate the officials’ policy approaches as examples for other state and local leaders. - The award also keeps attention on practical reforms in transit, budgeting, digital government and public safety.