July 5, 2026 (Orange County, FL) – With all that is going on in the world and in our nation, it can be easy to forget about the upcoming Primary Election (August 18) in the state of Florida. Races to fill various public offices are underway and here in Orange County, registered voters will have the opportunity to select whom they want to represent them in key positions such as Orange County Mayor.

So are you ready to vote? Here are some dates to remember and to share with friends and family.

If you need to register, the registration deadline is Monday, July 20. (Must be a United States citizen, Florida resident and at least 18 years old). July 20 is also the deadline if you want to change your party affiliation. Florida is a closed primary state, so voters in the August Primary Election will select people running within their party (example Republican or Democrat) for some races. There are non-partisan (no party affiliated) races such as those on the county level, including county commission and school board.

Early Voting starts on Monday, August 3. Vote wisely by researching the candidates who want to represent you. If you can, attend some of the political forums planned around town. Check out who’s running for what office on your Sample Ballot provided by the elections office.

Heads up: The county has two new commission districts (7 and 8) so your district, commissioner and/or polling place may change. In the commission district 7 race alone, there are 13 candidates on the ballot, according to the elections office. So research before voting is definitely a good idea. Also, four people are on the ballot to replace current Mayor Jerry L. Demings: Chris Messina, Tiffany Moore Russell, Stephanie Murphy and Mayra Uribe.

The last day to request a mail ballot is Thursday, August 6 by 5 p.m.

Early Voting ends on Sunday, August 16 and Primary Election Day is Tuesday, August 18.

If you have any questions or concerns about your voting status, don’t go by what you heard or hearsay. Contact the supervisor of elections office directly. Located: 119 W. Kaley St., Orlando, Florida 32806. Phone: (407) 836-2070. Website: http://www.voteorangefl.gov