THE PRIMARY PROBLEM
When only a small fraction of Texans vote in primaries, the majority aren’t being represented in the state.
Most Races are Decided in March
Most Texans hear about elections in November - they see ads, get phone calls or receive mail. Most do not hear anything about the March primary.
This is a problem because the March election is where most of our leadership is chosen - because a Republican or Democrat always wins that seat.
In 2022, only four Texas House districts were decided in the November. The other 146 were decided in the March primary election.
march election
There’s an election in March that nobody talks about. Here’s who is chosen in that election.
November Election
There’s an election in November that everyone talks about. Here’s who is chosen in that election.
What Happens When So Few People Vote?
Low primary turnout creates a cycle that impacts every Texan—even those who don't vote.
No Real Competition
Most Texas districts are safely red or blue. That means the primary election is the only election that matters—not November.
Lawmakers Ignore the Majority
When only 14% vote in primaries, elected officials focus on pleasing those voters—not the majority in their districts.
Lower Turnout, Weaker Candidates
As fewer people participate, strong candidates choose not to run, and voter enthusiasm continues to drop.
Re-Election Over Representation
Lawmakers prioritize winning their next primary over representing their constituents, leading to gridlock and partisan extremes.
How primaries work
Think of the March primary like March Madness – the first round of voting where each party picks who moves on to the November championship.
1
March: Primary Election
Multiple candidates compete. You choose which party's ballot (Democratic or Republican) to vote on.
2
May: Runoff (If Needed)
If no one receives 50% or more, the top two candidates face off in a runoff election.
3
November: General Election
Primary winners compete. But in most districts, the primary winner is virtually guaranteed to win.
How does march measure up?
(Source: Texas Secretary of State)
97%
of Texas House seats were decided in the 2022 primary.
#2
in the nation for lowest voter turnout
3%
of voters decided 97% of lawmakers in 2024
3.5x
Your vote’s relative power in a primary vs. general election
WHY DON’T PEOPLE VOTE?
Primary candidates receive less media coverage, making it harder to find information about candidates.
Lack of Information
01
Most Texans don't realize primaries decide who represents them. They think November is what matters.
Lack of Awareness
02
There's cultural expectation to vote in November, but primaries don't get the same attention.
Less Social Pressure
03
WHY You should vote
Primaries Decide 90%+ of Races
Most Texas state house and senate members are decided in the primary, not the general election.
Your Vote Counts More
Most Texans don't realize primaries decide who represents them. They think November is what matters.
You Choose Who Represents You
Primaries let you decide which candidates appear on the November ballot—before the choice is made for you.
2026 Texas Primary key dates
Don’t miss these critical dates.
Monday, fEB. 2
Last day to register to vote
tuesday, fEB. 17
First day of Early Voting begins
friday, fEB. 20
Last day to apply for Mail Ballot
friday, fEB. 27
Last day to Early Voting
friday, march 3
Primary election day
READY to make march matter?
Join business leaders, faith communities, and civic organizations across Texas in mobilizing voters for March 3, 2026