Reminders for March 2026 Texas Primary Elections

Voters to choose candidates for November general election ballot

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Millions of Texas voters are expected to participate in the March 3 primary elections, where they will select candidates to represent the Democratic and Republican parties in the November general election. Early voting runs from February 17 to February 27, and voters can choose which party's primary to vote in, but cannot vote in both. Several high-profile races, including for U.S. Senate and Congressional District 21, will be on the ballot.

Why it matters

The primary elections will determine the candidates that Texans will choose from in the November general election for key statewide and federal offices. The U.S. Senate race in particular is expected to be highly contested, with the incumbent facing challenges from the state attorney general and a U.S. Representative.

The details

Voters will choose candidates for several statewide positions, including U.S. Senator, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Attorney General. There are also numerous down-ballot races for state legislature, the State Board of Education, and local offices. The 21st Congressional District race has 14 candidates vying to replace the retiring incumbent. Voters must bring valid ID to the polls and follow rules about campaigning and recording devices within 100 feet of a voting station.

  • Early voting runs from Tuesday, February 17 to Friday, February 27.
  • Election Day is Tuesday, March 3.
  • If no candidate receives over 50% of the vote, a runoff election will be held on May 26.

The players

John Cornyn

Four-term incumbent U.S. Senator from Texas.

Ken Paxton

Three-term Texas Attorney General, challenging Cornyn in the Republican primary.

Wesley Hunt

Two-term U.S. Representative, also challenging Cornyn in the Republican primary.

Roy

The most recent U.S. Representative for Texas' 21st Congressional District, who is not running for reelection.

Lamar Smith

Held Texas' 21st Congressional District seat for over 25 years prior to Roy.

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What’s next

If no candidate receives over 50% of the vote in the primary, a runoff election will be held on May 26.

The takeaway

The March 2026 Texas primary elections will be a crucial step in determining the candidates that will appear on the November general election ballot for key statewide and federal offices. Voters will need to be aware of the rules and deadlines to participate in this important democratic process.