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2026 Primary Election Dates
Every state\'s 2026 primary date in one place. Plus registration deadlines, primary type, and a link to your state\'s full voter guide.
51
States + DC
50
U.S. House Seats
33
U.S. Senate Seats
36
Governor Races
All 50 States + DC: 2026 Primary Dates
All dates are 2026 unless noted. Specific primary dates are estimates based on each state\'s historical pattern — confirm with your state\'s official site before making plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are the 2026 primary elections? +
Most 2026 state primaries fall between March and August 2026, with the majority concentrated in May, June, and August. Specific dates vary by state — see the full table above for your state's primary date.
When is the 2026 general election? +
The 2026 midterm general election is on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. All 435 U.S. House seats, 33-34 U.S. Senate seats (Class II), 36 governor races, and thousands of state and local offices will be on the ballot.
Do I need to be registered before the primary? +
Yes. Most states have a registration deadline 15-30 days before the primary. A small number of states offer same-day registration during early voting or on Election Day. Check your state's specific deadline in the table above.
Can I vote in a primary if I am not affiliated with a party? +
It depends on your state. About 15 states have open primaries (any registered voter can choose either party's ballot on primary day). About 30 states have closed primaries (you must be registered with a party to vote in that party's primary).
What is on the ballot in 2026? +
The 2026 midterm ballot will include all 435 U.S. House seats, 33-34 U.S. Senate seats (Class II — Georgia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, North Carolina, and more), 36 governor races, all state legislature seats up for election, and thousands of local offices and ballot measures.
How do I find out what is on my specific ballot? +
Your state's Secretary of State website will publish the final ballot about 30-60 days before the election. You can also use our free Voter Tools at showuporshutup.org/tools to find your state's official resources.
What is a runoff primary? +
A runoff primary is held when no candidate in a primary race wins more than 50% of the vote (and the state requires a majority). The top two candidates advance to a second primary, typically 4-8 weeks after the first primary. About 8-10 states use runoff primaries.
Can I vote early in a primary? +
Yes, in most states. About 35+ states offer early voting for primaries, typically starting 14-30 days before the primary date. Check your state's specific early voting dates in the table above.
Ready to Vote?
Three free tools to make sure you\'re ready for the 2026 midterms.