Louisiana’s $47M Shift to Party-Primary Elections Starts in 2026
Louisiana shift to party-primary elections will cost $47M - The Black Chronicle
Louisiana is preparing for a major shift in its election process by adopting a party-primary system. The change, set to take effect in 2026, will alter how voters participate in primaries and general elections. Officials estimate the transition could cost the state up to $47 million over the next five years.
The new system will require voters to choose a single party primary based on their registration. Unaffiliated voters can still take part but will be restricted to one election only. Candidates without party ties may also advance to the general election if they meet specific criteria. These changes will apply to races for U.S. Senate, U.S. House, the Louisiana Supreme Court, BESE, and the Public Service Commission.
Implementation costs for 2026 are projected at a minimum of $11.7 million. This figure could rise further if runoff elections are needed, with each statewide runoff potentially costing up to $7 million. The Secretary of State’s office has already allocated funds for voter education and system updates, including over $2 million in one-time expenses for reprogramming and outreach.
While the 2026 budget includes provisions for these adjustments, the exact breakdown of costs for voter education and system realignment has not yet been made public.
The transition to a party-primary system marks a significant overhaul of Louisiana’s election process. With costs expected to reach tens of millions, the state will need to manage both financial and logistical challenges. The full impact on voters and candidates will become clearer as the 2026 elections approach.
