Ohio May 5 Primaries: Statewide Candidate Guide

Ohio May 5 Primary Election 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Ohio voters are preparing to head to the polls on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, for a primary election that will define the state’s political landscape for the general election in November. With more than 553 positions up for grabs—ranging from federal U.S. Senate seats to local county offices—this election is a critical juncture for the state’s leadership.

Voting Logistics and Deadlines

To ensure your voice is heard, you must adhere to specific deadlines and procedures. Voter registration for the May primary closed on Monday, April 6, though residents can still register now to be eligible for the November general election via the Ohio Secretary of State’s website.

Early and In-Person Voting

Early in-person voting launched on April 7 and continues through Election Day, including the Saturdays and Sundays immediately preceding May 5. Because voting hours vary by location, voters should verify times with their local board of elections. On Election Day, you can cast your ballot at your designated polling place as long as you are in line by 7:30 p.m.

Voter Assistance and Resources

Finding your polling location is available through official Ohio state resources. For those in northwest Ohio who require transportation, the Toledo Area Jobs with Justice & Interfaith Worker Justice Coalition provides rides to the polls or Early Vote Centers. You can schedule a ride by calling 419-VOTE-NOW (419-868-3669) or emailing gotvohio@gmail.com, according to WTOL 11.

What’s on the Ballot?

The 2026 primary features several high-profile contests. While voters will select party-specific candidates for Governor and one of Ohio’s U.S. Senate seats, they are also tasked with choosing the state’s Auditor, Treasurer, Secretary of State, and Attorney General.

The Race for Attorney General

The office of the state’s chief legal officer is open as incumbent Dave Yost is term-limited. Yost previously exited the race for Governor after Vivek Ramaswamy received the Ohio Republican Party’s gubernatorial endorsement last May, as reported by WKYC.

The Democratic primary features two primary contenders:

• John Kulewicz: An attorney and city councilmember from Upper Arlington. Endorsed by the Ohio Democratic Party, Kulewicz has visited all 88 Ohio counties to advocate for a “lawyer, not a politician” to lead the office.
• Elliot Forhan: A Cleveland-area attorney and former state legislator who represented Cuyahoga County’s 21st district in the Ohio House of Representatives from 2023 to 2024.

Regional Alerts: Hamilton County

Voters in Hamilton County should be aware of potential changes to their voting experience. The county’s board of elections has consolidated several precincts, which may result in modern polling locations. A new congressional map is in effect through 2030, meaning some voters may find themselves in different congressional districts than in previous elections.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do the polls close on May 5?

Polls across Ohio close at 7:30 p.m. If you are in line by this time, you are legally permitted to vote.

Can I still register to vote for the primary?

No, the registration deadline for the May 5 primary was April 6. However, you can register now to ensure you are eligible for the November general election.

How many positions are being contested?

According to BallotReady, more than 553 positions are up for election, ranging from federal seats to county-level judgeships.

As the May 5 deadline approaches, voters are encouraged to review their sample ballots and verify their polling locations to ensure a seamless voting process.