POLITICS

Officials Mail Ballots, Test New Papers Ahead Elections

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Pasco County, Florida. Supervisor of Elections Brian E. Corley said his office will send more than 35,000 Vote by Mail ballots on Thursday, July 9, 2026, for the August 18 primary, after an initial July 2 dispatch to uniformed and overseas voters; completed ballots must reach the elections office by 7:00 p.m. on Election Day to be counted. Phoenix and Mohave County officials reported related developments this week: Maricopa County added a pre‑tabulation ID‑verification return option intended to accelerate early‑ballot counting, while Mohave postponed adopting a new security paper after tests showed tabulators pulled multiple pages, causing jams; election offices will continue testing and adjust procedures ahead of the July primary and the fall election cycle.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Last year: Mohave County tested Ballot Guard paper and identified tabulator issues.
July 2, 2026: Counties mailed ballots to uniformed and overseas voters.
July 9, 2026: Pasco County scheduled mailing of over 35,000 Vote by Mail ballots.
This election cycle: Maricopa County introduced onsite ID verification for early ballot returns.
August 18, 2026: Florida primary Election Day; mailed ballots must be received by 7:00 p.m.

Why This Matters to You

Your vote counts, and how it's counted matters too. Pasco County is sending out 35,000 mail-in ballots. Maricopa County is speeding up early ballot counting with ID verification. Mohave County is working on paper security. Check your mailbox and make sure your vote is in by 7:00 p.m. on Election Day.

The Bottom Line

Election offices are testing and adjusting to ensure your vote is secure and counted promptly. If you're voting by mail, watch for your ballot and return it on time. Worth forwarding if you know someone who votes by mail.