Maryland Primary Election 2026: Governor, Congress, and Local Races Decide Ballots
Maryland voters are hitting the polls today to decide high-stakes primary contests that will shape the general election ballot. The ballot features competitive races for governor, federal congressional seats, the state general assembly, and critical municipal executive offices across the region.
Key Highlights
- Polling stations across Maryland remain open on Tuesday, June 23, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Same-day voter registration is available at assigned polling stations with valid proof of residency.
- Replacement mail-in ballots have been issued following initial party alignment distribution errors.
- Unaffiliated voters are excluded from this primary cycle due to a lack of contested school board seats.
CAIR Maryland is urging all eligible Maryland voters who have not yet cast their ballots to make a plan to vote on Election Day.
Voting is one of the most important ways we can help shape the future of our communities, schools, public safety, civil rights, healthcare, housing, and local representation. Every election matters, and primary elections are often where key decisions are made about who will appear on the ballot in November.
Polls will be open on Tuesday, June 23, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Anyone in line by 8 p.m. has the right to vote.
Maryland is also a same-day voter registration state. That means eligible residents who are not yet registered may register and vote at their assigned polling place on Election Day. Voters registering at the polls should bring proof of residency, such as a Maryland driverβs license or ID card with their current address, or another accepted document showing their name and current address.
Before heading to the polls, voters are encouraged to confirm their polling location and review their ballot options through the Maryland State Board of Elections.
Look up your polling location:
CAIR Maryland encourages community members to vote, remind family and friends, offer rides where possible, and help ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate.
Our voices matter. Our votes matter. Our communities deserve to be heard.
Make your plan. Go vote. Encourage others to do the same.
Future Outlook
The outcome of the June 23 primary will solidify the political field for the November 2026 general election. Incumbent Democratic Governor Wes Moore seeks a nomination for a second term, anchoring the top of the state ticket.
Simultaneously, intense congressional primaries will reshape Marylandβs federal delegation, highlighted by a 24-candidate race to fill a vacant leadership seat and a fierce challenge against an incumbent Democratic congresswoman by her wealthy predecessor. Locally, high-spending municipal campaigns, including the multi-million dollar Democratic battle for Baltimore County Executive between Julian Jones, Izzy Patoka, Pat Young, Nick Stewart, and Mansoor Shams, will establish new regional policy trajectories.
FAQs
What are the polling hours for the Maryland primary election?
Polling stations throughout Maryland are open on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Any voter who is aligned in queue by 8 p.m. retains the legal right to cast their ballot.
Can I register to vote on election day in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland permits same-day voter registration. Eligible individuals can register and vote simultaneously at their designated polling site on Election Day by presenting authenticated proof of residency, such as a state driver’s license, identification card, or official document displaying their current address.
What should I do if I received a replacement mail-in ballot?
Elections officials strongly advise voters to fill out and submit the replacement ballot rather than the original document. The State Board of Elections distributed replacements because several voters originally received incorrect party ballots. Officials verify and match incoming replacement items against originals to prevent double counting.
When must mail-in ballots be submitted to count?
Mail-in ballots must be deposited into an official drop box by 8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. If returned via the United States Postal Service, the ballot envelope must be postmarked on or before June 23 to be eligible for tabulation.
