Virginia Primary Election Date Changed to August 4, 2026

State officials confirm no primary elections will be held on the previously scheduled date of June 16.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Virginia General Assembly has passed legislation to move the state's 2026 primary elections for all offices on the November general election ballot to August 4. This change, established in House Bill 29, will impact early voting, absentee ballot deadlines, and candidate filing deadlines.

Why it matters

The primary date change aims to provide more time for voters to participate in the election process, with expanded early voting and same-day registration options. However, the shift could impact campaign strategies and voter turnout, especially for down-ballot races.

The details

The new primary date of August 4 replaces the previously scheduled June 16 primary. Early in-person voting will begin on June 19, or June 18 for registrar offices closed for the Juneteenth holiday. The deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail is July 24, and the deadline to register to vote and cast a regular ballot is also July 24. Starting July 25, voters can register and vote via a provisional ballot using same-day registration.

  • The primary date change was established by the General Assembly in House Bill 29, which was signed into law on February 20, 2026.
  • Early in-person voting for the primary is scheduled to begin on June 19, 2026.
  • The deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail is July 24, 2026.
  • The deadline to register to vote and cast a regular ballot is July 24, 2026.
  • Same-day registration begins on July 25, 2026.

The players

Virginia General Assembly

The legislative body of the Commonwealth of Virginia that passed House Bill 29 to change the primary election date.

Virginia Department of Elections

The state agency that oversees and provides information about Virginia's elections, including the updated 2026 primary date.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

A full list of candidates in all 2026 races will be available through the Virginia Department of Elections.

The takeaway

The primary date change aims to provide more time for voter participation, but could also impact campaign strategies and turnout, especially for down-ballot races. Voters should be aware of the new deadlines for registration, absentee ballots, and early voting.