Deadline alert: Today is your last chance to register to vote in Pennsylvania primary

Today marks the final day for Pennsylvania residents to register to vote ahead of the state’s upcoming primary election, setting the stage for critical races in the 2026 midterms.

Voters who wish to participate in the May 19 primary must be registered by Monday, May 4. The deadline applies to both new voter registrations and anyone needing to update their existing registration information, according to the Pennsylvania Department of State.

The primary election will determine which candidates advance to the November general election, where voters will weigh in on major races at both the federal and state levels.

In Pennsylvania, all 17 U.S. House districts will hold primaries to select party nominees. Voters will also help shape the race for governor, where incumbent Gov. Josh Shapiro is expected to face Republican Stacy Garrity in the general election. Additionally, all 203 seats in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and half of the State Senate seats are up for election this year.

Pennsylvania is widely viewed as a key battleground state, with several competitive districts expected to play a role in determining control of Congress.

The 2026 midterm elections will decide all 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, 35 U.S. Senate seats, and numerous state and local offices across the country.

Looking ahead, the deadline to request a mail-in ballot in Pennsylvania is May 12. Officials encourage voters to check their registration status and make a plan to vote early to ensure they can participate in both the primary and the November general election.

For complete voter registration details, click here.