Maryland voters preparing for the Nov. 3, 2026, general election can consult a new, comprehensive voter guide produced by The Baltimore Sun and the Capital Gazette that gathers candidate responses across the state.
What the guide contains
The project collected information from almost 500 candidates running for offices ranging from the statewide contests for governor, attorney general and comptroller to legislative seats and numerous local positions, including county executives, councils, school boards, state’s attorneys and sheriffs in the Baltimore region and on the Eastern Shore.
The guide gives voters access to each respondent’s explanation of their background and priorities, where they differ from their party or base, and what they view as over- or under-emphasized issues in the campaign.
How this affects Maryland residents
For voters, the resource is intended to make it easier to compare candidates on specific issues and personal qualifications ahead of casting a ballot. It also lists contested and uncontested races so residents can see where choices will be decided on Election Day and where the path is uncontested.
- Nearly 500 candidates participated in the survey.
- Coverage includes statewide offices and a wide range of local contests.
- Voters can read candidate statements in their own words to inform decisions.
Key dates and voting deadlines
Officials and the guide highlight several deadlines voters should note before Election Day.
| Date | Deadline or event |
|---|---|
| Oct. 13 | Voter registration deadline (or register when voting) |
| Oct. 22–29 | Early voting period |
| Oct. 27 | Deadline to request a mailed or faxed mail-in ballot |
| Oct. 30 | Deadline to request an electronic mail-in ballot |
| Nov. 3 | Election Day |
Notable contest notes
The guide flags numerous uncontested local offices. For example, several incumbents seeking re-election in prosecutorial and sheriff posts were listed as running unopposed in their counties. Voters in those jurisdictions will still cast ballots for those offices, but the outcome may be predetermined if no challengers appear on the ballot.
Readers interested in specific local contests — including circuit court clerk and register of wills positions and judgeships for orphans and circuit courts — can use the guide to review candidate answers and compare qualifications.
For questions about the questionnaire or the guide’s process, the newsrooms invited readers to contact the elections team via email provided with the publication.
Voters should consult the guide and their local election officials for polling locations, sample ballots and any updates to deadlines or procedures before casting a ballot.
— Maryland correspondent
