Early Voting Begins October 20th as New Orleans and Louisiana Prepare for Major Elections

Early Voting is set to begin across Louisiana on October 20, 2026, giving residents of New Orleans and communities throughout the state an opportunity to cast their ballots ahead of the November 3rd Election. With several important federal, state and local offices on the ballot, voters will have an opportunity to help determine the direction of government and policies affecting their communities.

Early Voting will continue through October 27th, excluding Sunday, October 25th. Polling locations will be open from 8:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. During this period, registered voters can cast their ballots at designated Early Voting locations within their parish.

Major Federal Races Draw Attention

One of the most closely watched contests is Louisiana’s race for the United States Senate, where Republican Congresswoman Julia Letlow faces Democratic Nominee Jamie Davis. The race will determine who represents Louisiana in Washington on issues including healthcare, education, economic development, infrastructure and federal funding.

Voters will also decide races for Louisiana’s Six Congressional Seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.

In the New Orleans area, Congressman Troy A. Carter is seeking another term representing Louisiana’s Second Congressional District.

State and Local Elections Also Matter

Beyond Congressional Races, Louisiana voters will consider candidates for the Public Service Commission, which regulates utilities and plays an important role in matters affecting electricity costs and services.

Seats on the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education are also being contested, giving voters a voice in the direction of public education, school accountability and educational policies.

In New Orleans, voters will also encounter judicial races, including positions on Civil District Court and Criminal District Court, along with education-related and other local offices. These positions influence the administration of justice, public education and the delivery of services that directly affect residents.

The specific contests appearing on each ballot will depend on a voter’s district and precinct.

Where and How to Vote Early

In Orleans Parish, Early Voting locations include City Hall at 1300 Perdido Street, the Algiers Courthouse at 225 Morgan Street, the Lake Vista Community Center at 6500 Spanish Fort Boulevard and the Voting Machine Warehouse at 8870 Chef Menteur Highway.

Voters should bring an acceptable photo identification. Those without identification may still vote by completing the required voter affidavit.

Residents can verify their registration, review sample ballots and locate voting information through the Louisiana Secretary of State’s website at sos.la.gov or the GeauxVote Voter Portal.