On the Federal Level: Congress
Ohio voters will help determine the balance of power in Washington by electing candidates for both chambers of Congress. One of Ohio's two U.S. Senate seats will be decided in a special election. Senators serve six-year terms and represent the entire state, tackling everything from national security and economic policy to confirming federal judges and cabinet members. Additionally, all 15 of Ohio's seats in the U.S. House of Representatives are up for election. Representatives serve two-year terms, and each one represents a smaller geographic district. They are responsible for writing and voting on federal laws, and their work directly impacts taxes, healthcare, and infrastructure funding for your community.
Statewide Executive Offices
Ohioans will elect a new slate of
leaders to run the state's executive branch, as many incumbents are term-limited. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are elected as a team and act as the state's chief executives, responsible for signing bills into law, managing state agencies, and appointing officials. The Attorney General serves as the state's top lawyer and law enforcement officer. The Secretary of State is Ohio's chief elections officer, overseeing the voting process and business filings. The State Auditor acts as a watchdog, ensuring that public funds are spent legally and efficiently. Finally, the State Treasurer manages Ohio's money, handling investments and tax revenue.
The Ohio General Assembly
The laws that most directly affect your daily life are often made at the state level. In 2026, every one of the 99 seats in the Ohio House of Representatives is on the ballot for a two-year term. Concurrently, about half of the Ohio Senate's 33 seats (specifically, the 17 odd-numbered districts) will be up for election for four-year terms. These two bodies, which form the Ohio General Assembly, are responsible for creating the state's budget, setting education policy, defining criminal laws, and overseeing transportation and public works projects.
Judicial Races: From Local Courts to the Supreme Court
The judiciary is a critical, but often overlooked, part of the ballot. In 2026, Ohioans will vote for two justices on the seven-member Ohio Supreme Court, the state's highest court. These elections are partisan. Voters will also find races for the District Courts of Appeals, which are the intermediate courts between local trial courts and the Supreme Court. Further down the ballot, you will likely see candidates for your county's Court of Common Pleas, which handles serious criminal and civil cases, as well as municipal court judges who preside over traffic violations and misdemeanor offenses. These judges interpret the laws passed by the legislature and have a profound impact on justice and public safety.
Your Local Ballot: County, City, and School Board
While statewide races get the most attention, local offices have a significant impact on your community's quality of life. Depending on where you live, your 2026 ballot could include a variety of crucial local positions. These often include County Commissioner, which is responsible for the county's budget and administration, and County Auditor, which assesses property values for tax purposes. You might also vote for city council members, mayors, and school board members who make key decisions about local schools, public services, and community development. Because these races vary by location, it's essential to check for a sample ballot before you vote.
