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About Elections in Virginia

When are elections held?

Statewide general elections are held each year on the Tuesday following the first Monday in November for the purpose of electing federal or state executive and legislative representatives. Local elected representatives may also appear on the November general election ballot. The election schedule for federal and state offices is as follows:

Office Term Next Election
President and Vice President of the United States Four years 2008
United States Senate Six years; two seats on staggered terms 2008 and 2010
House of Representatives Two years 2008
Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General Four years 2009
Virginia Senate Four years 2011
Virginia House of Delegates Two years 2009

May General Elections

Many cities and towns elect their Mayors, City Council members, School Board members, and other offices at May general elections, held on the second Tuesday in May. Term limits and frequency of elections vary from community to community.

Primary Elections

The Democratic and Republican Parties may choose to select their nominees for offices in November general elections through primary elections. Primaries, if held, are always on the second Tuesday in June.  Results can be found at the State Board of Elections website.

Special Elections

Special elections are held when a vacancy occurs in any elected office or when a referendum election is called. Depending upon the timing of the vacancy or the call for the referendum, a special election may take place on the same day as a general election.

Since specific elected offices, terms of office, and frequency of elections vary, please contact your local electoral board for specific election information in your community.

Who are my legislators?

For more information on who your legislators are, please go to our legislative action center

When are the polls open?

The polls open at 6:00 a.m. and close at 7:00 p.m. each Election Day. If you are waiting in line when the polls close, you will be allowed to vote.

Where do I vote?

Information on your polling place can be found using the Virginia State Board of Elections Polling Place Lookup feature.

Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Commonwealth University