Dear friend,

As you know, Candidate Filing Season is fast approaching. All candidates who wish to appear on the 2026 Democratic Primary ballot for positions located entirely within Harris County must file their candidacy with the Harris County Democratic Party (HCDP) during the state-mandated filing period: November 8 – December 8, 2025.

Resources

You can find filing requirements, fee schedules, and other important information here.

Please note: While some positions allow signatures in lieu of the filing fee, we strongly recommend paying the full fee in addition to submitting any petitions. This helps prevent legal challenges that could result in removal from the ballot.

HCDP’s General Counsel will host a virtual Candidate Filing Training on Saturday, November 1 from 2-3 PM. Sign up to attend here.

Filing Schedule

November 8: 10 AM – 7 PM
November 9: 12 PM – 5 PM
November 11–14: 12 PM – 7 PM
November 15: 12 PM – 5 PM
November 18–22: 12 PM – 7 PM
November 24–26: 12 PM – 7 PM
December 1–5: 12 PM – 7 PM
December 6–7: 12 PM – 5 PM
December 8 (Final Day): 10 AM – 6 PM

While walk-ins are welcome, we strongly encourage candidates to schedule a filing appointment here to minimize wait times.

Important: By law, filing closes at 6 PM on December 8, 2025.
Candidates who have not completed the full application process by that time will be unable to file. Please begin this process early.

What to Expect During Filing

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by our concierge team.

• Each candidate may bring one guest into the filing area. Additional guests may wait in the common area.

• Please ensure all paperwork and petitions are completed prior to your appointment.

Step 1: Identity Verification & Review

• Present a valid ID

• Review paperwork and requirements with filing clerks

• Record name pronunciation

Step 2: Notarization

• All documents will be notarized by an HCDP Notary Public

Step 3: Payment & Acceptance

• Payment accepted by check, money order, or cash

• Receipt provided upon completion

Step 4: Celebration & Photos

After filing, your concierge will guide you to our photo area, where you and your team can take pictures and sign the HCDP Candidate Wall.

Please arrive on time for your appointment.
If you need to reschedule, email madeline@harrisdemocrats.com.

For any other questions, please contact our Interim Executive Director, Baird Campbell, at baird@harrisdemocrats.com.

Thank you for your service and commitment to Harris County Democrats.
We look forward to supporting you through a smooth and successful filing process.

In solidarity,

Team HCDP