As March 3, 2026 approaches, voters in several key states are preparing to cast their ballots in primary elections that will help shape November’s midterm contests. Primaries are the process by which political parties choose their nominees for the general election later this year. On March 3, states including Arkansas, North Carolina, and Texas will hold primaries for federal, state, and local offices, with early voting already underway in many areas.
In Texas, one of the most watched races is the U.S. Senate primary, where incumbent Republican John Cornyn faces challenges from figures including Attorney General Ken Paxton and Representative Wesley Hunt. On the Democratic side, Representatives Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico are battling for the nomination, with both campaigns drawing national attention for their contrasting approaches. Voters statewide will also decide nominees for the U.S. House, governor, and other statewide offices, making the primary a pivotal test of party strength and voter enthusiasm.
In North Carolina, March 3 marks the primary for the open U.S. Senate seat left by retiring Republican Thom Tillis, a race that could influence control of the Senate in November. Arkansas voters will also go to the polls, with GOP and Democratic candidates competing for their parties’ nominations in gubernatorial, congressional, and legislative contests. Across these states, turnout and candidate performance will offer early clues about broader trends in the 2026 midterm elections, including shifts in voter priorities and the potential competitiveness of general election matchups.