Florida Primary Voting Enters Critical Stretch Ahead of Aug. 18 Election

Vote Here Today sign outside a Florida polling place as early voting begins ahead of the 2026 Florida primary election.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida’s 2026 primary election is entering its final stretch, with early voting beginning or expanding across counties as campaigns intensify their efforts ahead of the Tuesday, Aug. 18, primary election. Readers can follow every major statewide and congressional race in The Florida Pundit’s Florida Elections 2026 Hub .

Over the next two weeks, candidates for governor, attorney general, chief financial officer, agriculture commissioner, Congress, the Florida Legislature, and numerous local offices will make their final appeals to voters before Republicans and Democrats select their nominees for the November general election.

Election officials remind voters that the deadline to request a vote-by-mail ballot is Aug. 6, while Florida’s mandatory early voting period runs Aug. 8 through Aug. 15, although many counties choose to offer additional early voting days before or after those dates.

For voters, the coming days represent the best opportunity to verify registration information, review sample ballots, and determine where and when to cast a ballot.

Statewide races drawing national attention

The Republican primary for governor has attracted significant attention as candidates make their final campaign stops across Florida. The Florida Pundit recently covered James Fishback’s statewide television interview, while the latest polling continues to show Byron Donalds leading the Republican gubernatorial field.

Competitive races are also underway for attorney general, chief financial officer, commissioner of agriculture, and multiple congressional districts that could shape Florida’s political landscape heading into November.

Congressional contests heating up

One of the state’s most closely watched races remains Florida’s 7th Congressional District, where incumbent Rep. Cory Mills faces multiple Republican challengers. Readers can also learn more about Cory Mills’ upcoming debate with Republican challengers as campaigns enter their final stretch.

Candidates throughout the state are increasing television advertising, digital outreach, direct mail, endorsements, and public appearances as they seek to boost turnout before Election Day.

Election issues remain in focus

Election integrity continues to be a major issue this cycle. Earlier this summer, Florida authorities charged a Canadian citizen accused of illegally voting in seven elections, renewing attention on election administration.

Meanwhile, legal challenges surrounding ballot issues continue moving through Florida courts, including the lawsuit over proposed property tax amendment ballot language, another closely watched case ahead of the general election.

Important dates for Florida voters

Florida election officials encourage voters to remember these important dates:

Aug. 6: Vote-by-mail ballot request deadline.
Aug. 8–15: Early voting statewide.
Aug. 18: Primary Election Day.

What voters should do now

Before heading to the polls, Florida election officials encourage voters to:

Return completed vote-by-mail ballots as early as possible to help ensure they are received on time.

Verify your voter registration status.

Review your county’s sample ballot before voting.

Confirm your polling place or early voting location.

Bring an acceptable photo and signature ID if voting in person.

Final campaign push underway

The final weeks before a statewide primary traditionally bring increased campaign activity, including debates, policy announcements, fundraising, endorsements, and voter outreach operations.

With campaigns entering their final two weeks before the primary, voters can expect an increase in candidate debates, campaign advertising, endorsements, and grassroots outreach efforts. The Florida Pundit will continue providing comprehensive coverage of Florida’s 2026 elections, including statewide races, congressional contests, campaign finance, and Election Day developments.