Bexar County Primary Election 2026: Key Races, Voting Info, and What Residents Need to Know
As the 2026 Primary Election approaches, Bexar County voters are gearing up for an election cycle packed with consequential decisions — from county leadership to high-profile state and federal offices. Election Day is set for Tuesday, March 3, 2026, and sample ballots are now available online for residents to review.
This year’s primary is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched elections in recent memory for San Antonio and surrounding Bexar County communities. A wide range of contested races, critical deadlines, and new voter resources are prompting election officials to encourage early engagement and voter preparedness.
Check Your Voter Registration Status
As of January, Bexar County Elections staff are experiencing delays processing new voter registrations due to software issues at the state level. However, the Elections Administrator’s office confirms that all pending voter registrations will be processed in time for the start of Early Voting on February 17.
If you're having trouble verifying your registration status on the Texas Secretary of State's portal (votetexas.gov), you can call the Bexar County Elections Office directly at 210-335-8683 (VOTE) for assistance.
What to Expect on Your 2026 Primary Ballot
Primary elections in Texas require voters to choose either a Democratic or Republican ballot to vote for their party’s nominees ahead of the November general election. Key races and propositions will appear based on party selection and precinct.
High-Profile County Races
- Bexar County Judge: A competitive Democratic primary is unfolding between incumbent Peter Sakai and former San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg. The winner will face Republican Patrick Von Dohlen in November.
- District Attorney: An open race drawing several Democratic candidates, including James Bethke, Meli Carrión Powers, Meredith Chacon, and Luz Elena Chapa. Ashley Foster is the sole Republican candidate.
- County Clerk: Lucy Adame-Clark (D) is seeking re-election, with Cynthia Castro and Mari Sanchez Belewalso competing in the Democratic primary.
- District Clerk: Incumbent Gloria Martinez (D) faces multiple challengers such as Monica Ramirez Alcántaraand Christine Castillo.
Precinct-Specific Races
Voters may see additional local races depending on their address:
- County Commissioner, Pct. 2: Justin Rodriguez (D) is seeking another term.
- County Commissioner, Pct. 4: Tommy Calvert (D) is also running for re-election.
- Justices of the Peace and Constables in various precincts will be on the ballot.
Judicial Contests
Numerous judicial seats are up for grabs, including:
- County Courts at Law: Seats 1–15
- District Courts: Over a dozen, including the 144th, 150th, and 225th Districts
- Probate Courts: Seats 1 and 2
Statewide and Federal Races
- U.S. Senate: Incumbent John Cornyn (R) is being challenged in his own party by Ken Paxton and Wesley Hunt. Democratic contenders include Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico.
- State Executive Offices: Voters will weigh in on Texas Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, and Comptroller.
- U.S. House of Representatives: All five congressional districts covering Bexar County (Districts 20, 21, 23, 28, and 35) are on the ballot.
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Important Dates for Voters in Bexar County
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Voter Registration Deadline | February 2, 2026 |
| Early Voting Begins | February 17, 2026 |
| Early Voting Ends | February 27, 2026 |
| Election Day | March 3, 2026 |
| Runoff Election (if needed) | May 26, 2026 |
How and Where to Vote Early
Bexar County offers two early voting options: in person and by mail.
In-Person Early Voting
Any registered voter may vote early at a convenient vote center between February 17 and February 27. Locations vary by election and will be posted on the Bexar County Elections Department website.
Curbside voting is also available for voters with mobility challenges — just look for the designated sign and call the number listed when you arrive.
Voting by Mail / Absentee Ballot
To vote by mail in Texas, you must meet at least one of the following eligibility criteria:
- Be 65 or older
- Have a sickness or disability
- Expect to give birth within 3 weeks of Election Day
- Be out of the county during the entire early voting and Election Day period
- Be confined in jail but still eligible to vote
- Be civilly committed under Chapter 841 of the Texas Health and Safety Code
Applications must be submitted no later than 11 days before the election (by February 21, 2026). Annual applications expire December 31 each year.
Ballot applications should be mailed to:
Early Voting Clerk
1103 S. Frio, Suite 100
San Antonio, TX 78207
Tracking your vote-by-mail application and ballot status is possible through the county’s Ballot-By-Mail Status Trackeronline.
About the Bexar County Elections Department
The Bexar County Elections Department oversees elections and voter registration for more than 1.28 million registered voters across 776 precincts, 53 political subdivisions, and all 20 local school districts. The department also manages voting access for military communities such as Lackland AFB, Fort Sam Houston, and Randolph AFB.
For full details about early voting locations, sample ballots, and more, visit the Bexar County Elections website or call 210-335-VOTE (8683). Bexar County residents are strongly encouraged to verify their registration, know their options, and make a plan to vote in the 2026 Primary Election.
Every vote matters — especially in a year with so much on the ballot.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.







