Voting is one of the most important ways we can make our voices heard and help shape the future of our communities.
While presidential and other federal elections often receive the most attention, the decisions that affect our everyday lives are made at every level of government. Local and state leaders make decisions about our schools, public transportation, housing, health care, public safety, language access, and other resources available to families and communities. Federal elected officials make decisions that can shape immigration policy, the economy, civil rights, health care, and much more.
That is why every election matters, including primary elections. Primary elections give voters a chance to help choose which candidates will represent a political party in the general election. This means your vote can help shape who appears on the ballot in November.
Here in Massachusetts, the State Primary Election is Tuesday, September 1, 2026. Voters will have the opportunity to cast ballots in races for offices including U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, Governor, Attorney General, State Senate, State Representative, district attorney, and other state and local offices.
But you don’t have to wait until September 1 to make your voice heard.
Here are some important dates to remember:
- August 22: Deadline to register to vote or update your party registration for the State Primary.
- August 22–28: Early voting period. Every Massachusetts community will offer opportunities to vote early in person.
- August 25 at 5 p.m.: Deadline for your local election office to receive your application to vote by mail.
- September 1: State Primary Election Day. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Massachusetts voters do not need an excuse to vote early, either in person or by mail. If you choose to vote by mail in the primary, remember that your completed ballot must be received by your local election office or official ballot drop box by 8 p.m. on September 1 to be counted.
If you are an unenrolled voter, sometimes referred to as an independent voter, you may choose which party’s primary ballot you would like to vote in. Voters registered with a political party can vote in that party’s primary.
We know that our communities are strongest when people are informed, engaged, and empowered to participate in civic life. For eligible voters, voting is an opportunity to have a say in who represents you and the decisions that affect your family, your neighbors, and your community.
Make your voting plan today: Check your voter registration, learn what’s on your ballot, decide whether you’ll vote by mail, vote early in person, or vote on Election Day, and remind your family and friends to make their plans, too.
For more information about the September 1 primary and what’s on the ballot, check out WBUR’s 2026 Massachusetts Primary Voter Guide. You can also visit the Massachusetts Elections Division for official information about registering, voting early, voting by mail, and finding your polling place.
Our communities have a voice. Let’s use it.
Contributed by Gil Calderin, MIRA’s Director of Advocacy