Local election season begins as candidate qualifying opens

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – The political season for next year officially begins today.

Qualifying has opened for local elections that will take place next spring.

Candidates now have a two-month window to file the required paperwork in order to officially enter a race.

The primary election will be held in May.

Voters in Hamilton County will see twelve races on the ballot, including contests for mayor and sheriff.

Local election day in Tennessee is scheduled for August 6.

Assistant Administrator of Elections Nate Foster is encouraging voters to plan ahead for election day.

“Make sure you bring your photo ID,” Foster said. “We also encourage voters to vote either in the mid-morning or the mid-afternoon on election day, because the lines are lower then.”

The May primary will also include races for state and federal offices.

The general election for those offices will take place in November.

Election officials remind voters that staying informed and prepared is the best way to ensure a smooth voting experience in the months ahead.