Connecticut Elections 2026 | Races, Candidates & Polling | AmericanElectionHQ

Connecticut voters will head to the polls in 2026 for a significant midterm election cycle featuring 13 races across federal and statewide offices. The gubernatorial race headlines the ballot, with both Democratic and Republican primaries shaping the contest for the state's chief executive. Connecticut's governor serves a four-year term and plays a central role in state policy, budget priorities, and legislative leadership.

All five of Connecticut's U.S. House seats are also on the ballot this cycle, with competitive primaries already taking shape in multiple districts. These federal races will determine Connecticut's representation in the 119th Congress and influence the balance of power in Washington. Connecticut has historically seen active primary contests in both parties, reflecting the state's engaged electorate and diverse political landscape across its geographic regions.

The 2026 cycle offers Connecticut voters an opportunity to participate in shaping both state governance and federal representation during a midterm year. With primary elections scheduled for August 11, 2026, voters will first narrow the field of candidates before the general election later in the fall.

Connecticut residents must register to vote at least seven days before an election to participate. Eligible voters must be U.S. citizens, Connecticut residents, and at least 18 years old by Election Day (17-year-olds may vote in primaries if they turn 18 by the general election). Registration can be completed online through the Connecticut Secretary of State's website, by mail, or in person at local town clerk offices or the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Connecticut now offers early in-person voting beginning 14 days before Election Day at designated locations in each municipality. Voters may also request an absentee ballot for specific qualifying reasons, including absence from town, illness, physical disability, religious beliefs, or active military service. No excuse is required if you are 65 or older. On Election Day, polling places are open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and voters in line by 8:00 PM will be allowed to cast their ballot.

Connecticut's primary election is scheduled for August 11, 2026. Both Democratic and Republican primaries will be held on this date to select party nominees for the general election.

To vote in Connecticut, you must be a U.S. citizen, a Connecticut resident, and at least 18 years old by Election Day. If you are 17, you may vote in a primary election if you will turn 18 by the general election. You must be registered at least seven days before the election.

You can register to vote online at the Connecticut Secretary of State's website, by mail using a voter registration form, or in person at your local town clerk's office or DMV. Registration must be completed at least seven days before Election Day. You'll need to provide proof of identity and residency.

Connecticut allows absentee voting by mail for specific reasons: absence from your town during all voting hours, illness, physical disability, religious beliefs preventing secular activity, required election day duties, or active military service. Voters aged 65 and older may vote by absentee ballot without providing an excuse. Applications must be submitted to your local town clerk.

Connecticut does not require voters to show photo ID at the polls. However, first-time voters who registered by mail and did not provide identification with their registration may be asked to show ID or proof of residency when voting for the first time.

The general election is expected to take place on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 (the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November). Polls are open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Connecticut also offers early in-person voting beginning 14 days before Election Day.

Connecticut

Overview

Federal Races

Connecticut U.S. House District 3 (Democratic Primary)

Connecticut U.S. House District 5 (Democratic Primary)

Connecticut U.S. House District 4 (Democratic Primary)

Connecticut U.S. House District 2 (Democratic Primary)

Connecticut U.S. House District 3 (Republican Primary)

Connecticut U.S. House District 2 (Republican Primary)

Connecticut U.S. House District 5 (Republican Primary)

Connecticut U.S. House District 4 (Republican Primary)

Connecticut U.S. House District 1 (Democratic Primary)

Statewide Races

Connecticut Governor (Democratic Primary)

Connecticut Governor (Republican Primary)

Connecticut Governor (Democratic Primary)

Connecticut Governor (Republican Primary)

How to Vote

Common questions about voting in Connecticut

Get updates on Connecticut races.