Early voting is almost here, so make a plan to cast your vote and ensure your voice is heard this election season.
From Oct. 19-30, Texans can cast early ballots in numerous races, including two closely watched contests—the Texas Senate and the governor's race.
In the state's U.S. Senate race, Texas Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton faces Democratic state Rep. James Talarico in a nationally watched contest, where recentsummer and early fall polls have shown Talarico ahead by more than the margin of error in a state that last elected a Democratic U.S. senator in 1988.
In the governor's race, incumbent Republican Greg Abbott faces Democratic challenger state Rep. Gina Hinojosa, with recent polls showing a statistical tie.
Here's what you need
to know about the election and how to vote early in Texas.
Where to vote early?
Texans can vote at any early voting polling location in their county, according to the secretary of state's website.
Individuals can also check the department's search site, "My Voter Portal," two days prior to the first day of early voting to look up their registration information and find their nearest polling location. Individuals can also contact their local elections office for polling location information.
How to check voter registration
Texas voters can use the secretary of state's voter registration lookup at VoteTexas.gov to check their registration status and confirm their address is correct.
If you need to update your registration, do so through the VoteTexas portal.
What's on the Texas November 2026 ballot?
Numerous offices are on the ballot this November, from a U.S. Senate seat to local elections.
Here's a look at what statewide offices are on the ballot:
- U.S. Senate: Ken Paxton (R) vs. James Talarico (D).
- Governor: Greg Abbott (R) vs. Gina Hinojosa (D).
- Lieutenant Governor: Dan Patrick (R) vs. Vikki Goodwin (D).
- Attorney General: Mayes Middleton (R) vs. Nathan Johnson (D).
- Comptroller of Public Accounts: Don Huffines (R) vs. Sarah Eckhardt (D).
- Commissioner of the General Land Office: Dawn Buckingham (R) vs. Benjamin Flores (D).
- Commissioner of Agriculture: Nate Sheets (R) vs. Clayton Tucker (D).
- Railroad Commissioner: Bo French (R) vs. Jon Rosenthal (D).
Additionally, all 38 Texas U.S. House seats are on the ballot. Check with your local election offices for a sample ballot and to see what local elections are happening.
Mateo Rosiles is the Texas Connect reporter for USA TODAY and its regional papers in Texas, based in Austin. Got a news tip for him? Email him at mrosiles@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: When is early voting in Texas? What to know about midterm elections
