Highlands County saw a slight increase in early voting for the 2026 primary, with 4,772 voters casting ballots during the 10-day early voting period. That is 131 more early voters than in the 2024 primary—an increase of 2.8%. The numbers varied considerably by voter registration. Republican early voting increased by 89 ballots, while Democratic early voting increased by 130. The number of NPA and other-party voters casting early ballots fell by 88.
Highlands County Early Voting: 2024 vs. 2026
| Voter registration | 2024 | 2026 | Change | Percent change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Republican | 3,599 | 3,688 | +89 | +2.5% |
| Democratic | 666 | 796 | +130 | +19.5% |
| NPA/Other | 376 | 288 | −88 | −23.4% |
| Total | 4,641 | 4,772 | +131 | +2.8% |
Republicans made up 77.3% of those voting early, followed by Democrats at 16.7% and NPA/other-party voters at 6%.
These numbers do not include vote-by-mail ballots.
Election Day Is Tuesday
Polls will be open Tuesday, Aug. 18, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at all regular Highlands County precinct locations. There is one important difference between early voting and Election Day: On Tuesday, you must vote at your designated precinct. You cannot choose whichever voting location is most convenient.
If you are unsure where to vote, confirm your assigned precinct before leaving home. Anyone in line at 7 p.m. will still be permitted to vote.
