U.S. Primary Election Day 2026: What’s Happening Today

Today, Tuesday, March 3, 2026, voters in key states are heading to the polls for primary elections that will shape the November general election landscape. Across states including Texas, North Carolina, and Arkansas, primary contests are underway to determine who will run in the 2026 midterm elections — with seats for the U.S. House and Senate nominations on many ballots. In Texas, record early voting participation has already been reported, with over 2.5 million ballots cast before Election Day, significantly higher than previous cycles. Polls are open today in Texas from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time, and voters will choose candidates in high-profile statewide races such as U.S. Senate, governor and congressional seats. In North Carolina, polling locations are open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and primary voters are selecting nominees for U.S. Senate, House, and state legislative positions. Election officials expect results to begin rolling in after polls close, but complete tallies may take hours or days as all ballots — including mail-in and provisional votes — are finalized. Local leaders from both parties have urged voters to participate, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement in shaping future representation. Today’s primaries reflect the start of the broader 2026 midterm election season, with outcomes influencing political strategy and fundraising going into the fall general elections.