Louisiana voters will experience a significant change at the ballot box beginning in May 2026, as the state moves to a Closed-Party Primary system for select major elections. The shift was approved as part of Act 1 during the 2024 First Extraordinary Legislative Session.

Unlike Louisiana’s current open primary or “jungle primary” system — where all candidates appear on the same ballot regardless of party — the new model limits who a voter can select based on their registered party affiliation.

Under the new rules:

• Registered Democrats will vote only for Democratic candidates.

• Registered Republicans will vote only for Republican candidates.

• No Party voters can choose either the Democratic or Republican ballot, but must stick with that party through any runoff.

• Voters registered with Green, Libertarian, or other parties will not be able to participate in these closed primary races, though they will still be able to vote in other contests on the same ballot.

Only certain offices will use the new system. Those include:

• U.S. House of Representatives

• U.S. Senate

• Louisiana Supreme Court

• Public Service Commission

• Board of Elementary and Secondary Education

All other elections — including statewide contests like governor, legislature, and sheriff — will continue using Louisiana’s familiar open primary system.

To advance past a primary, a candidate must receive a majority (over 50%) of the vote. If no one reaches that threshold, the top two candidates will face off in a runoff. However, in the general election, the winner will be whoever receives the most votes — even if they do not earn a majority.

With the rollout just over a year away, elections officials are urging voters to check their registration — especially party affiliation — now. Changing your party preference will affect which ballot you receive in the primary. Residents can easily verify or update their voter information at GeauxVote.com, on the GeauxVote Mobile App, or through their local Registrar of Voters office.

Voter awareness will be key in the months ahead.

“Not everyone will vote on every race anymore, and ballots may look different from one voter to the next,” officials remind. “Be sure you understand what’s changing, what your options will be, and how it affects your vote.”

As 2026 approaches, Louisiana’s new system will require voters to think ahead and stay informed — but elections officials say they’re ready to guide the public every step of the way.