The Natchitoches Parish Registrar of Voters Office is reminding residents of key deadlines ahead of the May 16, 2026 Closed Party Primary and Municipal Primary Election.
Voters will decide several races and measures on the ballot, including U.S. Senator for the Democratic and Republican parties, U.S. Representative for the 6th Congressional District for the Republican Party, and Public Service Commissioner for the 5th District for the Democratic and Republican parties. Local races include mayor and aldermen for the Natchez. The ballot will also include five constitutional amendments, three parishwide propositions, a tax renewal for Road District 40, and a sales tax proposal for the Goldonna.
The deadline to register to vote or update voter registration in person, by mail, or at an Office of Motor Vehicles location is April 15. The deadline to register or make changes through the GeauxVote online system is April 25.
Early voting will take place from May 2 through May 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., excluding Sunday, May 3, at the registrar’s office located inside the Natchitoches Parish Courthouse at 200 Church Street in Natchitoches.
For the closed party primary, voters registered with no party affiliation may complete a Declaration of Ballot Choice form during early voting or on Election Day to choose a ballot that includes either Democratic or Republican races, or a ballot limited to no-party contests. Selecting a ballot does not change a voter’s party affiliation.
The deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail, other than for military and overseas voters, is May 12. Completed absentee ballots must be returned to the registrar’s office by 4:30 p.m. May 15. Military and overseas ballots must be returned by noon on Election Day.
Residents seeking more information may contact the registrar’s office at 318-357-2211 or the Natchitoches Parish Clerk of Court at 318-352-8152.
