Elections in
Idaho holds its 2026 primary elections on May 19, with the general election following on November 3. This midterm cycle features significant federal and statewide contests, with 7 races covered on this platform. Voters will decide Idaho's U.S. Senate seat, both of the state's U.S. House districts, and the governor's office, among other positions.
Idaho operates as a semi-closed primary state, meaning Republican and Democratic primaries are open only to registered party members, while unaffiliated voters may choose to affiliate with a party on Election Day to participate. The state's Republican primary typically draws significant attention given Idaho's electoral history, while both major parties will select their gubernatorial nominees. With federal representation and the state's chief executive on the ballot, 2026 represents a major election year for Idaho voters.
Idaho voters must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old by Election Day, and residents of Idaho for at least 30 days. Voter registration is available online, by mail, or in person at county election offices, and same-day registration is permitted at the polls during early voting and on Election Day. Idaho requires voters to present photo identification at the polls, including driver's licenses, passports, tribal ID cards, or other approved documents.
Idaho offers in-person early voting (called "in-person absentee voting") at county election offices beginning three weeks before Election Day. Voters may also request absentee ballots by mail without providing an excuse, though applications must be submitted by 11 days before Election Day. Completed absentee ballots must be received by 8 PM on Election Day. On Election Day itself, polls are open from 8 AM to 8 PM Mountain Time (or 7 AM to 7 PM Pacific Time in northern Idaho counties). Voters can find their polling location through their county clerk's office or the Idaho Secretary of State's website.
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