Texas Voters Not Required to Cast Votes for Unopposed Candidates

Fact check finds no law mandating votes for uncontested races in Texas elections

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fact check by El Paso Matters and Gigafact has determined that there is no law in Texas requiring voters to cast a ballot for unopposed candidates. The Texas Election Code states that not marking a vote in one race does not invalidate the entire ballot, and unopposed candidates do not need a specific number of votes to be elected.

Why it matters

This fact check addresses misinformation circulating online about voting requirements in Texas, helping to ensure voters understand their rights and responsibilities when casting ballots, especially in uncontested races.

The details

According to the Texas Election Code, voters are not required to cast a vote in every race, whether contested or uncontested. Not marking a vote in one race is considered an "undervote" and does not invalidate the entire ballot. Additionally, unopposed candidates in Texas do not need to receive a specific number of votes to be elected.

  • The fact check was published on February 16, 2026.

The players

Texas Election Code

The set of laws governing elections in the state of Texas.

Texas Secretary of State

The chief election official for the state of Texas.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This fact check helps clarify voting requirements in Texas, dispelling the myth that voters must cast ballots for unopposed candidates. Understanding one's rights and responsibilities as a voter is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.