Get ready to hit the polls — early voting for the May 28 primary runoffs in Bexar County kicks off this Monday, with high-stakes nominations on the line for local Democrats and Republicans. If you had your say in the March primary, you're locked into the same party's runoff now. But don't worry if you sat the first round out, you still have the chance to weigh in on either party's candidates this go-around.
Scratch your head over this — local Democrat voters are set to crown their pick for the 73rd Civil District Court. While down in Precinct 1, a fiery contest is cooking for the county commissioner seat between Commissioner Rebeca Clay-Flores and challenger Amanda Gonzalez. On the GOP side, all eyes are on three congressional district races, including incumbent Tony Gonzales' fight to fend off Brandon Herrera for Texas' 23rd District, as San Antonio Report serves up the details.
Outside of the heated personal clashes, some cards are still left on the table. High-profile state legislative seats could flip the script on policies like school vouchers. Among these, House Speaker Dade Phelan is squaring up with Dave Covey after a razor-thin result in March.
Running from May 20 to May 24, early voters can place their bets at any of the 38 sites open across the county. These are your stakes: showing up between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. can make a difference. However, it all comes down to May 28 when the polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. for the main event. So if you've got plans to vote by mail, get a move on — today marks the cut-off for Bexar County to receive your application.
If you're on the fence about your eligibility, hop off. As long as you've hit the registration deadline and meet the basic criteria — like being 18 and not currently in prison or declared mentally incapacitated — you're good to go. Unsure? Double-check your status online with the info that matches your voter registration record, which the San Antonio Report conveniently directs you to.
And to those sweating over what to bring to the voting booth — breathe easy. Seven types of ID will get you through the door, from your standard Texas driver's license to a U.S. passport. Lacking these, declare a "reasonable impediment" and present anything from a utility bill to a birth certificate. So long as you've got something with your name that can vouch for who you are, you won’t be turned away. Even without that voter registration card you can't remember if you received, you'll still get to cast your ballot. Just be sure to bring one of those seven approved forms of photo ID along for the ride.
