Get Ready to Vote in Alabama
Your voice matters. Your vote shapes Alabama’s future.
Voting is one of the most fundamental rights in our democracy, yet many eligible Alabamians do not exercise it. Every election is important, but the 2026 election cycle will be especially significant for our state.
Across Alabama, voters will help decide every seat in the Alabama Legislature, all seven members of the U.S. House delegation, one U.S. Senate seat, and all statewide constitutional offices, including the Governor. The decisions made in these elections will shape healthcare, education, workforce development, and the economy for years to come.
When more people vote, communities are better represented, and their needs are more clearly heard.
2026 Primary Election: Key Dates to Remember
- Last Day to Register to Vote: Monday, May 4, 2026
- Absentee Ballot Application Deadline (by Mail): Tuesday, May 12, 2026
- Absentee Ballot Return Deadline (Hand Delivery): Monday, May 18, 2026 (by close of business, no later than 5 p.m.)
- Absentee Ballot Return Deadline (by Mail): Tuesday, May 19, 2026 (by noon)
- Primary Election: Tuesday, May 19, 2026
- Primary Runoff Election (if needed): Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Why Your Vote Matters
Hospitals and healthcare organizations are among Alabama’s largest employers and strongest economic drivers.
- More than 81,000 people are directly employed by Alabama hospitals
- Tens of thousands of additional jobs are supported statewide
- $30 billion total economic impact across Alabama communities
The healthcare workforce is part of every community in the state. Participating in elections ensures that the voices of patients, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals are reflected in public decision-making.
Make a Plan to Vote
Taking a few simple steps now makes voting easier later.
You must be registered to participate in Alabama elections.
Registration Deadline (Primary Election): Monday, May 4, 2026
Register through your county election office or the state voter registration system.
Confirm your voter registration status and polling location ahead of time to avoid delays on Election Day.
You have options for how to cast your ballot:
In-Person Voting
Vote at your assigned polling location on Election Day.
Absentee Voting
If you are unable to vote in person, you may be eligible to vote absentee.
Key absentee deadlines:
- Absentee ballot application (mail): May 12, 2026
- Absentee ballot return (hand delivery): May 18, 2026 (by 5 p.m.)
- Absentee ballot return (mail): May 19, 2026 (by noon)
ABSENTEE BALLOT APPLICATION INFORMATION BY COUNTY
Get Ready Now
The best time to prepare is before Election Day. Encourage your coworkers, friends, and family to check their registration, understand their options, and make a voting plan.
Small steps now help ensure that every eligible voice is heard.