Early Voting Begins Across Texas Big Country

Polling sites and hours vary by county as voters head to the polls

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Early voting for the upcoming elections has begun across the Texas Big Country region, with polling locations and hours varying by county. Voters are encouraged to take advantage of early voting to avoid potential long lines on Election Day. According to election officials, turnout has already been strong, with over double the number of voters participating in the first day of early voting compared to the same period in 2022.

Why it matters

The Texas Big Country region is a politically important area, with several key races on the ballot including the U.S. Senate and the Texas gubernatorial election. High voter turnout in this region could sway the outcomes of these high-profile contests.

The details

Early voting began on Tuesday, February 17th and will run through February 27th. Polling locations and hours vary by county, with some offering extended evening and weekend hours to accommodate voters. In Taylor County, for example, early voting is taking place at several locations including the Taylor County Plaza, Abilene City Hall, and various United grocery stores. Other counties in the Big Country region, such as Brown, Callahan, and Coleman, also have multiple early voting sites.

  • Early voting began on Tuesday, February 17th and will run through February 27th.
  • On the first day of early voting in Taylor County, over 1,000 voters cast ballots, more than double the number from the same period in 2022.

The players

Paul Fabrizio

A PhD in Political Science and professor of Political Science at McMurry University, who encouraged voters to take advantage of early voting to avoid potential Election Day lines.

Greg Abbott

The current Texas Governor who is seeking another term.

Jodi Arrington

A retiring U.S. Representative, leaving an open congressional seat.

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What they’re saying

“I think it's a good idea for people to vote early. Otherwise, be prepared to wait on Election Day.”

— Paul Fabrizio, PhD in Political Science and professor of Political Science at McMurry University (KTXS)

“People are apparently flocking to the polls. I was surprised when I voted early by how many people were already there.”

— Paul Fabrizio, PhD in Political Science and professor of Political Science at McMurry University (KTXS)

What’s next

Voters in the Texas Big Country region will have until February 27th to cast their ballots during the early voting period. Election Day is scheduled for March 3rd, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The takeaway

The strong early voter turnout in the Texas Big Country region highlights the high level of engagement and interest in this election cycle. Voters in this politically important area are taking advantage of the convenience of early voting to make their voices heard.