2026 Primary Election Voters’ Guide

Maryland uses a closed primary system for Democratic and Republican primaries.Voters must be registered with a party to vote in that party’s primary election. However, if you’re unaffiliated, you can still vote in nonpartisan primaries (like Board of Education), but not in party primaries.

Important Dates

Voter Registration & Party Change Deadline June 2, 2026 Learn more


Mail in registration must be postmarked by June 2, 2026 Mail-in ballot request

Early Voting June 11-18, 2026 – Maryland allows same‑day registration if you bring proof of address Find your early voting location

*Polls are open from 7am to 8pm during early voting. If you are in line by 8pm, you are allowed to vote.


Mail-In Ballot Request Deadline (mail/fax) June 16, 2026 Learn more


Mail-In Ballot Request Deadline (online) June 19, 2026 Learn more

Primary Election Day June 23, 2026 – Maryland allows same‑day registration if you bring proof of address Find your voting location

*Polls are open from 7am to 8pm on Election Day. If you are in line by 8pm, you are allowed to vote.


Candidate Statements

Montgomery Community Media invited candidates running for various local offices—including U.S. Senate, County Executive, County Council and four Board of Education races—to record brief statements for our viewers. Visit the sidebar on the right side of this page to learn about the candidates and watch their video statements.