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Friday, May 22, 2026

Can nonpartisan voters vote in Nevada’s primaries?

Eric Neugeboren, The Nevada Independent
yes

Although Nevadans registered as nonpartisan cannot vote in major party primaries, there are a host of races in which they can still vote.

Many local government and all judicial contests are open for nonpartisans in Nevada’s June 9, 2026, primary. However, primaries in which candidates are running as part of a political party, such as the race for governor, are only open to voters who are registered with that party.

A ballot question in 2024 sought to open up primaries, which would have allowed nonpartisans to vote in all primary contests. However, 53 percent of voters rejected the proposal.

More than 38 percent of active registered voters in Nevada are nonpartisan, more than are registered either major party. The number of nonpartisan voters has soared since the state began automatic voter registration in 2020. People signed up through that process default to nonpartisan status unless they choose another party.

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The Nevada Independent is a nonpartisan, nonprofit news and opinion website founded in 2017 by veteran political journalist and commentator Jon Ralston. The site and its supporting channels are focused on ethical, unbiased and transparent journalism. In general, we aim to gather and disseminate important public information and increase civic engagement. We are supported by corporate donations, memberships, event ticket sales and sponsorships and foundation grants. We disclose all our members and donors. Donors have no influence over our content, ever. The Nevada Independent is the dba for Nevada News Bureau, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded in 2010 by Elizabeth Thompson, who now serves as one of The Nevada Independent's managing directors and its Editor.

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