Candidates in over 30 state and federal contests are set to compete again in the runoff elections on May 26, following their inability to secure a majority of votes in the March Republican and Democratic primaries. Notable races include Attorney General Ken Paxton’s challenge against U.S. Senator John Cornyn, along with several contenders for various statewide and district-level offices across Texas.
In these unresolved races, registered voters will have the opportunity to select their preferred candidates either on May 26 or during the early voting period from May 18 to May 22.
It’s important to note that Texas does not permit voters to participate in both party primaries. Those who voted in either the Republican or Democratic primary must continue with that same party during the runoff elections. Conversely, individuals who did not vote in March have the flexibility to choose between either party’s runoff.
Key Information for Voters
Here’s what you need to be aware of:
- What races are on the ballot?
- Important dates to remember
- Voter registration requirements
- Mail-in voting information
- Poll attendance details
- Ensuring your ballot is counted
Races on the Ballot
The statewide Republican runoff races include:
- U.S. Senate: John Cornyn vs. Ken Paxton
- Texas Attorney General: Mayes Middleton vs. Chip Roy
- Texas Railroad Commission: Jim Wright vs. Bo French
- Texas Court of Criminal Appeals Place 3: Alison Fox vs. Thomas Smith
The statewide Democratic runoff races feature:
- Lieutenant Governor: Vikki Goodwin vs. Marcos Vélez
- Attorney General: Nathan Johnson vs. Joe Jaworski
In addition, there are runoff elections for various congressional, Texas House, and State Board of Education district representatives, as well as a Republican primary for Texas Senate District 19 along the U.S.-Mexico border. While incumbents generally succeeded in state legislative races, several faced close contests or runoffs in congressional races.
The candidates who progress to the general election and win in November will have significant influence over public policy in areas such as education, healthcare, and immigration.
Important Dates
The last day to register to vote or change your address for the runoff elections is April 27. Early voting occurs from May 18 to May 22, with Election Day on May 26. For mail-in voting, the application deadline is May 15.
Voter Registration Requirements
To register to vote in Texas, you must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and not currently serving a felony sentence or deemed mentally incapacitated by a court. Those experiencing homelessness can register by providing an address description.
To register, complete and submit a paper application by April 27, which can be obtained from county voter registrars or downloaded online. If you need to change your address or name, you can do so online or through your local voter registrar.
Mail-in Voting
For mail-in voting, applications must be received by May 15. Mail-in ballots must be returned by Election Day, May 26, and should be postmarked by 7 p.m. on that day.
Voting in Person
Early voting runs from May 18 to May 22, while Election Day is May 26, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Voters must bring a valid photo ID to vote. If you lack a valid ID, you may sign an affidavit to cast a provisional ballot.
Voter Rights
Voters have the right to cast their ballots without intimidation and can receive assistance if needed. They also have the right to vote during work hours without penalty.
Contact Information for Voter Assistance
If you have questions regarding your voter registration or the election process, contact your county’s voter registrar or elections office. The Texas Secretary of State’s office also provides a helpline for voter inquiries.
For any issues with your mail-in ballot, Texas allows voters to correct their ballots if there are technical errors. Voters can track their mail-in ballot status through an online tracker.
Ensuring Your Vote Counts
After casting a provisional ballot, you will receive notification by mail regarding whether your vote was counted. Regular ballots are tracked by counties, but votes remain anonymous once submitted.
Public voter data includes voting history, but individual ballot choices are confidential. To stay informed and ensure your participation, keep track of deadlines and requirements as the elections approach.
