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COLUMBUS — As the Nov. 3, 2026, General Election approaches, the Colorado County Elections Department is reminding voters of key guidelines, procedures, and expectations to ensure a smooth voting experience across the county.
VOTE-BY-MAIL DEADLINES AND RETURNING YOUR BALLOT Voters eligible to vote by mail are encouraged to review their balloting materials early and ensure proper completion. Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked by election day. For inquiries regarding mail-in ballot status or applications, voters can contact the elections office directly at (979) 732-6860.
ELECTIONEERING RULES AT POLLING PLACES
Voters and members of the public are reminded that Texas law strictly regulates activity near vote centers. Electioneering, including passing out campaign literature, wearing campaign clothing, hats, or buttons, and soliciting votes, is prohibited within 100 feet of any polling place entrance during voting hours. If a voter wears a work name badge, school uniform, lanyard, or apparel displaying school-district logos, emblems, or specific slogans, it can be subject to scrutiny under the electioneering code.
NO STRAIGHT-PARTY VOTING Voters are advised that Texas law does not permit straight-party voting. Voters must cast their vote choice individually for each office and ballot measure appearing on their ballot.
EXPECT HIGH TURNOUT AND POTENTIAL LINES With high voter interest, election officials anticipate significant turnout. Voters are encouraged to prepare for potential lines by reviewing sample ballots in advance and checking local polling locations and times on the Colorado County website.
Reporter’s Note: Voters who are in line when polls close have the right to stay in line and still cast their ballot.
ELECTION NIGHT UNOFFICIAL RESULTS Unofficial election results will be released at the end of the night after all polling locations have reported and central count processing is complete.
The primary destination to view unofficial results on election night is directly on the Colorado County Elections Website. Due to the manual review and counting required for write-in candidates, initial results are not expected to be released until after 10:00 p.m. Election staff will publish updates as soon as the manual hand counts and tabulations are finalized. Please do not call it only delays results.
