2026 Midterm Primary Elections: Key Races and Results in North Carolina, Texas, and Arkansas
Three states are holding primary elections on Tuesday, marking the beginning of the 2026 midterm cycle. Voters in North Carolina, Texas, and Arkansas are casting their ballots, with polls closing at different times in each state. The primaries are crucial for both Democrats and Republicans as they strategize to either regain control or maintain their majority in Congress.
In North Carolina, the State Board of Elections announced an extension of voting hours in Halifax County due to delays in the morning. This means that primary results will not be available until polls close at 8:30 p.m. ET. In Texas, polls will close at various times across the state, with some areas closing as late as 10 p.m. ET, causing a delay in the release of primary results. Arkansas will close its polls at 8:30 p.m. ET.
The midterm elections are significant for Democrats who are aiming to win back the House and Senate, while Republicans are working to defend their narrow majorities. In Texas, incumbent GOP Sen. John Cornyn is facing primary challenges from Attorney General Ken Paxton and Rep. Wesley Hunt. Democrats in Texas are also selecting candidates for various races, including the Senate contest and competitive House districts.
In North Carolina, former Gov. Roy Cooper and former RNC Chair Michael Whatley are competing for their parties' Senate nominations. The GOP is focused on retaining the Senate seat in a highly contested primary. Additionally, there is a crowded field for the GOP nomination in the state's 1st House district, which has been redrawn to be more challenging for Democrats.
The primary elections in these states will set the tone for the 2026 midterm cycle and could shape the future of both the Democratic and Republican parties. The results will provide insights into the internal debates within each party and the strategies they are employing to secure victories in the upcoming elections.