The Gila County Recorder’s Office is issuing this notice to inform voters of an important change to the 2026 Primary Election date following recent action by the Arizona Legislature.
On Friday, Feb. 6, Governor Katie Hobbs signed legislation moving the statewide primary election earlier in the summer.
Under the new law, the 2026 Arizona Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 (this replaces the previously scheduled August primary date).
The Voter Registration Deadline to participate in this election is Monday, June 22, 2026
Voters may also update their registration information online at AZMVDNow.gov
Early Voting Information
In addition to the updated election date, Gila County voters should take note of the following early voting opportunities and deadlines:
Early Voting Begins: Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Early ballots will be mailed to voters who have requested one or who are on the Active Early Voting List (AEVL). In-person early voting will also begin.
Active Early Voting List (AEVL):
Voters may sign up to automatically receive a ballot by mail for each election without needing to submit a request each time.
In-Person Early Voting:
Voters may cast early in-person ballots at designated locations (sites to be announced).
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., through July 17, 2026.
Ballot Request Deadline:
Requests for mailed early ballots must be received at least 11 days prior to the election, as required by state law.
“As your County Recorder, my office is committed to reducing voter confusion and providing clear and timely election information,” said Gila County Recorder Wendy Mannigel-Smith. “Please mark your calendars with the new primary date and utilize early voting options. We want every eligible Gila County voter to participate in our electoral process and have their vote count.”
Detailed early voting dates, Election Day polling locations, ballot drop-off sites, and additional election services will be posted on the Gila County Recorder’s website https://www.gilacountyaz.gov/government/recorder/index.php as they become available
Voters are also encouraged to follow the Recorder’s Office on Facebook for election updates.
For more information, contact the Gila County Recorder’s Office – Voter Registration Division at (928) 472-5301, or the Gila County Elections Department at (928) 402-8709.
