Why we care if you vote in the primary elections

Our elected officials make decisions that affect your life every day. As a citizen, you have a voice in choosing who represents you and ensuring they share your belief that ending hunger is a priority. We need everyone’s help to end hunger, including the individuals who are asking for your vote.

We’re here to help answer some common questions so that you can cast your vote with confidence.

1. So, what ARE primary elections, anyway? The primaries are the first phase of the election process for candidates for office. Most candidates file as a Republican or Democrat and must be elected as the candidate of choice for their party for the general election. In Texas, we have an “open primary” process, which means that voters may vote in either primary, regardless of their own party affiliation. Primaries give voters the opportunity to narrow a list of candidates vying for the same office under the same party. The primaries also trigger the caucusing process for both parties.


2. Which offices are on the ballot this time?  Statewide races, such as U.S. Senator, U.S. Representative, Texas Senate, Texas House, Governor, Lt. Governor, Comptroller, Attorney General, Agriculture Commissioner, Railroad Commissioner and judicial races, such as Texas Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, and District Judge are all on the ballot. Locally, county offices such as county commissioners, justices of the peace and others are on the ballot as well (depending on your county). Each of the primary ballots also have a list of referendums (certain positions on issues) to consider.


3. When can I vote?  You can vote right now in early voting until Feb. 28.  If you don’t vote early, then you can still vote on Election Day, Tuesday, March 4.  Polls are open 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.


4. Where can I vote?  If you are registered in Travis County, you may vote at ANY voting location, even on Election Day. Other counties have varying rules about where you can vote—some require voting in your precinct where you are registered. See the list below for information specific to your county.


5. Can I vote in both primaries?  No, you may only vote in one: Democratic or Republican.


6. What is required to vote?  You must be registered to vote, and you must bring a photo ID.  Visit this site for a list of acceptable IDs.


7. So, who should I vote for?  That’s is a personal choice for you, and you alone, to make. The Capital Area Food Bank of Texas, as a 501c3, cannot endorse any candidates for office.  However, if you’d like to find out more information on candidates and issues, you can review the League of Women Voters Guide.

For information about voting in your county, check out these sites:

Bastrop

Bell

Burnet

Caldwell

Coryell

Fayette

Freestone

Gillespie

Hays

Lampasas

Lee

Limestone

Llano

McLennan

Milam

Travis

Williamson

Hill Country Voter’s Guide