Texas Candidates Ready for Upcoming Primary Elections in March 2026

Abilene, Texas — As the dust settles from the recent General Election, potential candidates are preparing for the next political showdown in Texas. Applications to enter the March 3, 2026, primary elections begin Saturday, offering opportunities for those interested in county, state, or federal office.

Candidates must go through primary elections within a political party to secure their party’s nomination for the General Election scheduled for November 3, 2026. Alternatively, individuals can register as Independents, choosing to run in the General Election without party affiliation.

The retirement of state House District 71 Rep. Stan Lambert, R-Abilene, has sparked interest among several individuals eager to replace him in the Legislature. They are expected to file for placement on their party’s primary ballot.

U.S. Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-Lubbock, plans to seek reelection and will also be vying for the Republican nomination for the 19th Congressional District. In a statewide context, major positions such as governor, lieutenant governor, and attorney general will appear on the primary ballot, along with all U.S. and state representative seats and sixteen state senate seats.

While Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick lead the conversation for statewide offices, attention is turning to U.S. Sen. John Cornyn. He faces a competitive Republican primary against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt of Houston.

Democratic contenders include state House District 50 Rep. James Talarico of Austin and former U.S. Rep. Colin Allred of Dallas, who previously challenged U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz in 2024.

As primary registration opens statewide, potential newcomers may emerge, including U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett from the Metroplex and former congressman Beto O'Rourke from El Paso. U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson, R-Amarillo, has also expressed interest in Cornyn’s Senate seat.

Local races in Taylor County will add more dynamics to the elections, with candidates having until December 8 to file their applications.