Primary Elections

Primary elections help determine which candidates will appear on the ballot for a general election. Voters choose among candidates within a party so that each party’s nominee is selected. In Virginia, registered voters may participate in one party’s primary on the same day. Primary elections are usually held in June.

General Elections

General elections are regularly scheduled elections where voters choose among candidates nominated by parties (and independent candidates) for public office. These typically occur on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November each year, and include federal, state, and local offices.

• Richmond voters may see federal, state, and local offices on the ballot, depending on the election cycle.

• This includes offices such as President, U.S. House of Representatives, Virginia General Assembly, Mayor, and City Council.

Special Elections

Special elections are held to fill a vacancy or address a specific public question outside of the regular election schedule. For example, if an officeholder resigns or passes away before their term ends, a special election may be called to elect someone to serve the remainder of the term.

• Special elections only apply to affected districts or offices.

• Dates and deadlines vary based on the specific election.

Referenda & Ballot Measures

Sometimes voters are asked to weigh in on a specific question — such as a change to local government structure or a constitutional amendment — rather than choosing candidates. These are called referenda or ballot measures and are typically included on an election ballot for voters to approve or reject.

• Voters cast a “yes” or “no” vote on the measure.

• Ballot questions appear during scheduled elections or special elections, depending on the issue.

Local and Municipal Elections

Many cities and counties hold elections for local offices such as city council, school board, or county supervisors. These may align with state or federal election dates, or occur in odd-numbered years, depending on the locality’s charter and election calendar.

Presidential and Federal Elections

In even-numbered years, voters may see elections for federal offices such as U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. Every four years, a presidential election is part of the general election cycle, allowing voters to choose the President and Vice President of the United States.

• State elections include Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, and members of the Virginia General Assembly.

• These elections are held on a statewide schedule but appear on Richmond ballots.