How to Vote in Florida's 2026 Primary: Everything Manatee and Hillsborough County Voters Need to Know

Florida's 2026 primary election is on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The general election follows on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. For voters in Manatee and Hillsborough counties who want to participate in choosing the next congressman for Florida's 16th District, here is everything you need to know.

Step 1: Make Sure You Are Registered

Florida is a closed primary state. That means you may only vote in a Republican primary if you are registered as a Republican, and only in a Democratic primary if you are registered as a Democrat. Independent and No Party Affiliation (NPA) voters cannot vote in partisan primaries.

To vote in the August 18 primary, you must be registered with a political party no later than July 20, 2026 — 29 days before the primary.

• Check your Manatee County registration: votemanatee.com
• Check your Hillsborough County registration: votehillsborough.gov

How to Register or Update Your Registration

Florida offers several ways to register:

• Online: RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov
• In person: At your county Supervisor of Elections office
• At the DMV: When getting or renewing a Florida driver's license
• By mail: Contact your county Supervisor of Elections for a form

Voting Options: In-Person, Early, and Mail

Election Day: August 18, polls open 7 AM to 7 PM. You must vote at the polling place assigned to your precinct. Bring a valid photo ID with signature.

Early voting begins approximately August 8. Exact early voting locations and hours are set by your county Supervisor of Elections.

Vote by mail: Any registered voter may request a mail ballot. Request yours from your county elections office. Voted mail ballots must be received by your Supervisor of Elections by 7 PM on Election Day.

Key Dates at a Glance

Questions?

• Manatee County: votemanatee.com or (941) 741-3823
• Hillsborough County: votehillsborough.gov

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