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Pennsylvania voters will head to the polls in 2026 to decide critical statewide and federal races during the midterm election cycle. The state's gubernatorial contest headlines the ballot, with both major parties holding competitive primaries to select their nominees for governor and lieutenant governor. These races will determine the Commonwealth's executive leadership through 2031.
At the federal level, Pennsylvania's congressional delegation is partially up for election, with at least five U.S. House races on the ballot. Several of these contests feature contested Democratic primaries, including in Districts 3 and 7, suggesting competitive nomination fights before the general election. Pennsylvania's 17 congressional seats make it one of the most closely watched states for control of the U.S. House of Representatives.
As a perennial swing state with significant electoral influence, Pennsylvania's 2026 elections will draw national attention. Voters across the Commonwealth's 67 counties—from Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to rural communities—will help shape both state governance and the balance of power in Washington, D.C.
Federal · Primary · May 19, 2026
Federal · Primary · May 19, 2026
Pennsylvania voters must be U.S. citizens, residents of the state and their election district for at least 30 days before Election Day, and at least 18 years old by Election Day. Registration can be completed online, by mail, or in person at county voter registration offices, the Department of Transportation, and other designated agencies. The deadline to register is 15 days before any election.
Pennsylvania offers no-excuse mail-in voting, meaning any registered voter can request a mail ballot without providing a reason. Applications must be received by county election offices by 5:00 PM seven days before the election, and completed ballots must be returned by 8:00 PM on Election Day. Voters can also cast ballots in person during the early voting period at their county election office or at their assigned polling place on Election Day. First-time voters who registered by mail may need to provide identification. Pennsylvania does not require voter ID for most voters, though poll workers may ask for confirmation of identity.
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