Massachusetts legislature approves 2026 primary election date

BOSTON (WWLP) – The Massachusetts Senate has approved a bill setting the state primary election date for September 1, 2026, in a move to optimize voter participation.

The legislation, known as H.4531, was enacted to ensure compliance with state and federal election requirements, particularly concerning vote-by-mail ballots and the timely distribution of ballots to military and overseas voters. The decision aligns with recommendations from the Secretary of the Commonwealth and follows approval by both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

It is always important to be proactive in setting the primary election to ensure we select a date that encourages voter participation,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “I am glad that we settled the date a year in advance, giving voters ample time for public awareness and giving our hardworking election administrators ample time to prepare.”

Senator John F. Keenan (D-Quincy), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Election Laws, noted, “This legislation will put the Commonwealth in position to meet these obligations and run another smooth, safe, and secure primary election on September 1, 2026.”




https://www.wwlp.com/news/massachusetts/massachusetts-legislature-approves-2026-primary-election-date/