Bexar County Texas Primary Runoff: Voting Guide, Hours, and Key Races

Bexar County voters head to the polls this Tuesday, May 26, to participate in the primary runoff election. The ballot features a series of high-profile contests that will determine candidates for both local and federal offices, marking a critical juncture for the regional political landscape.

The Federal Spotlight

The marquee matchup on the ballot is the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate. Incumbent John Cornyn is facing Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in a contest that has drawn significant attention, particularly following an official endorsement of Paxton by President Donald Trump on May 19. The winner of this runoff will secure a spot on the November ballot to face Democratic nominee James Talarico.

View this post on Instagram about Incumbent John Cornyn, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton

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Did You Know? The deadline to register to vote in the May 26 primary runoff was April 27, and all mail-in ballots must be received by the elections office or postmarked by 7 p.m. On Election Day.

Local and Congressional Implications

Beyond the Senate race, voters will decide several other key positions. In Texas’ 35th Congressional District, both parties are finalizing their candidates through runoff contests: Carlos De La Cruz and John Lujan for the Republicans, and Maureen Galindo and Johnny Garcia for the Democrats.

John Cornyn blasts opponent Ken Paxton after Texas GOP Senate race advances to runoff

Locally, the race for district attorney is nearing its conclusion. Former appellate judge Luz Elena Chapa and Jane Davis, chief of the juvenile section of the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office, are vying for the Democratic nomination. The victor will face Republican Ashley Foster in November to succeed outgoing District Attorney Joe Gonzales.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the high concentration of runoff races—ranging from the U.S. Senate down to county-level positions—suggests that voter turnout will be a decisive factor in determining the eventual nominees. These contests represent a significant winnowing process for the upcoming general election, setting the stage for major shifts in local governance and federal representation.

Looking Ahead

As the primary runoff concludes, the winning candidates will shift their focus toward the November general election. The outcomes of these races are likely to reshape the party tickets in both the 35th Congressional District and the Bexar County District Attorney’s office, effectively defining the choices available to voters later this year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the polling hours for the May 26 election?
Polls are open from 7 a.m. To 7 p.m. On Tuesday, May 26.

Where can I cast my ballot?
Voters are permitted to cast their ballots at any polling location throughout Bexar County.

What identification is required to vote?
Acceptable forms of ID include a Texas driver’s license, Texas Election Identification Certificate, Texas personal identification card, Texas handgun license, U.S. Military ID card with a photo, U.S. Citizenship certificate with a photo, or a U.S. Passport.

Which of these local or federal races do you believe will have the most significant impact on the future of your community?