Virginia voters are now able to cast their ballots as early voting officially begins for the state’s upcoming dual-party primary elections. The August 4 primary will allow voters to help determine each party’s nominees for several key races, including U.S. Senate, congressional seats, and select local offices. Election officials are encouraging residents to take advantage of the extended early voting period, which runs through August 1 in most localities.
Because Virginia operates as an open-primary state, registered voters do not declare a political party when registering. However, if both Democratic and Republican primaries are being held, voters must choose which party’s ballot they wish to cast and may only participate in one primary election. Election officials say this process helps ensure voters have flexibility while maintaining the integrity of each party’s nomination process.
State and local election offices are reminding Virginians to verify their registration status, review their sample ballots, and make a voting plan ahead of Election Day. Early voting locations are available throughout the Commonwealth, and no excuse is required to vote early in person. Officials hope the convenience of early voting will increase participation as voters prepare to shape the field of candidates heading into the 2026 general election.
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