By R.J. Morales | TX3DNews
Early voting is underway for the March 2026 primary elections, bringing several key races in Collin County and Texas’ 3rd Congressional District into focus ahead of the November general election.
In multiple federal, state, and county contests, more than one candidate is seeking the same party nomination, making the primary election the decisive stage of the race. Under Texas law, candidates must win a majority to secure a nomination, with unresolved races advancing to runoff elections later in the spring.
U.S. House — Texas’ 3rd Congressional District (Republican Primary)
The Republican primary for Texas’ 3rd Congressional District is contested this cycle, with incumbent Keith Self facing a challenge from Mark Newgent.
TX-03 covers much of Collin County and has remained reliably Republican in recent general elections, elevating the importance of the GOP primary as the decisive contest for the seat.
The race has grown increasingly contentious. Newgent has repeatedly criticized Self’s rhetoric, calling it “dangerous,” and has alleged in social media posts that Self’s campaign is engaging in misleading tactics. Self has countered by accusing Newgent of serving special interests and abandoning conservative principles.
The campaign has also drawn attention following a recent article raising questions about Self’s past outreach and fundraising among Muslim communities, contrasted with his current rhetoric opposing Islam and Sharia law. The race came further into focus after Self’s most recent town hall, where a woman attempting to ask a question after the event concluded alleged she was struck by a man during a confrontation.
Texas House District 61
Texas House District 61, which includes parts of Frisco and McKinney, features contested primaries in both parties in a fast-growing district where education and infrastructure remain central issues.
On the Republican side, incumbent Keresa Richardson is seeking another term and is again challenged by Frederick Frazier, marking a rematch from their previous primary. Education policy has been a visible point of contrast, with Richardson supporting school voucher-style legislation and Frazier emphasizing opposition to those measures and support for traditional public schools.
Democratic voters will choose between Brittany Black and Jackie Bescherer, who largely agree on policy positions but differ in background, emphasis, and how they frame priorities — with Black focusing on policy outcomes and electability and Bescherer emphasizing public service and institutional accountability.
Texas House District 67
Texas House District 67, covering parts of Plano and surrounding communities, features contested primaries on both the Republican and Democratic ballots in a district that has regularly drawn attention due to competitive intraparty races.
On the Republican side, incumbent Jeff Leach is seeking another term and is challenged by Matt Thorsen. Leach, a multi-term legislator, also faced a primary challenge in the previous election cycle, reflecting ongoing intraparty divisions within the district rather than a single, isolated dispute.
On the Democratic ballot, voters will choose between Emeka Eluka and Jordan Wheatley. Eluka had previously indicated he would step away from the race before later re-entering, setting up a two-candidate Democratic primary for the seat.
Texas House District 89
Texas House District 89, which includes parts of Plano, Murphy, Wylie, and surrounding communities, features a competitive Republican primary in a district shaped by steady suburban growth and increasing pressure on schools, transportation, and local services.
On the Republican side, incumbent Candy Noble is seeking another term and faces challengers Jeff Forrester and Freddie America. Noble has served multiple terms in the Texas House and has focused her legislative work on fiscal issues, public safety, and conservative policy priorities.
The three-candidate field reflects differing views within the Republican electorate about representation and legislative direction rather than a single defining controversy. With multiple challengers on the ballot, the primary will determine which Republican advances to the general election in a district where GOP contests have historically been decisive.
On the Democratic ballot, Angie Carraway is seeking the party’s nomination, positioning herself for the general election once the Republican primary is decided.
Collin County Judge (Republican Primary)
Voters will also decide a contested Republican primary for Collin County Judge.
The race features incumbent Chris Hill and challenger Rick Grady. The county judge presides over the Commissioners Court and oversees countywide administration and budgeting.
As a countywide office, the race will appear on ballots across Collin County.
Statewide Races on the Primary Ballot
Voters will also weigh in on high-profile statewide primaries for U.S. Senate and governor.
In the Republican U.S. Senate primary, incumbent Sen. John Cornyn faces challengers Ken Paxton and U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt. On the Democratic Senate ballot, U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, state Rep. James Talarico, and Ahmad Hassan are running for the nomination.
On the Democratic primary ballot for governor, the field includes state Rep. Gina Hinojosa, former U.S. Rep. Chris Bell, and Bobby Cole, along with other candidates.
What Happens Next
Early voting for the March 2026 primary runs from February 17 through February 27, with Primary Election Day on March 3. Any races that remain unresolved will advance to runoff elections on May 26.
Candidates who secure their party’s nomination will move on to the general election on November 3, 2026.
Voters can find polling locations, voting hours, and sample ballots through the Collin County Elections Office and the Texas Secretary of State.