ELECTION KY

Kentucky's primary election is today. What to know about voting, candidates and more

Shannon Hall
Courier Journal

Kentucky's 2019 primary election is coming up fast. 

Here's what you need to know for the primary election on Tuesday, May 21:

What are the main races for the 2019 Kentucky primaries? 

Check out:Here's your complete 2019 Kentucky primary elections voter guide

What is a primary election?

A primary election determines which candidates will be on the ballot in the general election months later. It's Democrats running against Democrats and Republicans running against Republicans, with the winners of those elections facing off for state office at a later date.

The winners of today's races will take part in the general election on Nov. 5.

Kentucky primary sample ballot

See the sample ballot for the 2019 Democrat and Republican primary below, or click here.

Who is on the ballot?

Republican candidates for governor: Matt Bevin, Robert Goforth, Ike Lawrence, William Woods

Democratic candidates for governor: Rocky Adkins, Andy Beshear, Adam Edelen, Geoff Young

Republican candidates for Attorney General: Daniel Cameron, Wil Schroder

Democratic candidates for Attorney General: Greg Stumbo (uncontested)

Republican candidates for Secretary of State: Michael G. Adams, Andrew English, Stephen L. Knipper, Carl Nett

Democratic candidates for Secretary of State: Jason Belcher, Jason Griffith, Heather French Henry, Geoff Sebesta

Republican candidates for Treasurer: Allison Ball (uncontested)

Democratic candidates for Treasurer:Michael Bowman, Josh Mers

Republican candidates for Auditor:  Mike Harmon (uncontested)

Democratic candidates for Auditor: Kelsey Hayes Coots, Sheri Donahue, Chris Tobe

Republican candidates for Commissioner of Agriculture: Bill Polyniak, Ryan Quarles

Democratic candidates for Commissioner of Agriculture:  Robert Haley Conway, Joe Trigg

How do I change my party affiliation in Kentucky? 

Kentucky has a closed primary. That means non-partisan registered voters may only vote for non-partisan races or issues in the primary election. There are no non-partisan races this year in Jefferson County.  

In other words, only registered Republicans can vote in the Republican primary, and only registered Democrats can vote in the Democratic primary. 

The deadline to change your political party has passed for this year's primary, but you can change your party before the general election on Nov. 5. 

The last day to register to vote for the general election is 4 p.m. Oct. 4 at govoteky.com.

Also:Here's what to expect and watch for in Kentucky's primary election races

When is Kentucky's primary for 2019? 

Tuesday, May 21. Polls open at 6 a.m. and close at 6 p.m. Those in line at 6 p.m. will be allowed to vote.

How can I register to vote?

The last day to register in time to vote in the primary was April 22. Registration is closed for the primary elections. 

But, you can register for the Nov. 5 general election online at GoVoteKy.org. 

How do I check my voter registration? 

In Kentucky, you can check to see if you're registered at GoVoteKY.com. You'll need to provide your first and last name and your birth date.

Where do I vote? 

In Jefferson County, you can visit elections.jeffersoncountyclerk.org and click on "Where Do I Vote," or call 502-574-6100.

If you have questions about whether you're registered or where you're supposed to vote, contact your county clerk.

If you have a disability or trouble reading, ask an election worker for assistance. They can help and won't reveal your vote.

Do I need an ID to vote?

Yes, you need a form of ID that includes your signature and a photo. Some acceptable forms of ID include:

  • Driver's license
  • Social Security card
  • U.S. government-issued identification card
  • State ID card with picture
  • Credit card 
  • Personal acquaintance

How do I report problems at the polls? 

Kentuckians who witness election irregularities or possible election law violations are encouraged to call 800-328-VOTE (800-328-8683).

The hotline is open during regular business hours and from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Eastern time) on Election Day.

We want to know what you're seeing at the polls, too. If you see any election problems, let us know by emailing lounews@courierjournal.com or calling 833-LOU-NEWS (833-568-6387).

If you have any questions about voting, please contact the Kentucky State Board of Elections at 502-573-7100.

Shannon Hall is a digital producer with the Courier Journal. Reach her at sshall@courier-journal.com; Twitter: @sshall4. Support strong local journalism by subscribing today: www.courier-journal.com/shannonh