Election Day 2026: What San Antonio voters need to know
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After months of campaigning, political ads and lawn signs, the time has come. It's Election Day.
Why it matters: Voters could usher in a major political shift — or reinforce Republicans' decades-long dominance in statewide politics.
State of play: More than 525,000 voters have already cast ballots in Bexar County — a 40% turnout — which surpasses the early voting turnout of 390,042 — 32% — in 2022, the last midterm election.
What's on the ballot: Texans will vote for U.S. senator, governor, congressional representatives and other statewide and local offices.
- Bexar County voters will choose a new county judge and a new district attorney.
- Voters will also weigh in on school district tax increases and bonds, plus a proposal to renew and expand Pre-K 4 SA.
The big picture: All eyes are on Texas' U.S. Senate race between Democrat James Talarico and Republican Ken Paxton as Democrats seek a net gain of four seats to take control of the chamber.
- Meanwhile, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott is seeking a fourth term against Democrat Gina Hinojosa.
Between the lines: Democrats hope frustration with President Trump will energize voters, while Republicans defend their hold on traditionally red states.
- No Democrat has won statewide in Texas since 1994.
Zoom out: Control of Congress and the Texas Legislature is also at stake.
- The election will test Republicans' redrawing of five Democratic-held U.S. House districts.
- Democrats need to flip 14 seats to take the Texas House and gain four to control the state Senate, both tall orders.
What's next: Polls are open 7am–7pm Tuesday, and anyone in line by closing time can still vote.
- Bexar County voters can cast ballots at any polling location and use the county's Election Day map to find a site or check wait times before heading out.
- VIA will offer free rides to polling locations for riders who show a valid Bexar County voter registration card.