2014 Calendar | State Primary Dates and Runoff Dates

The dates for state primaries are listed below, sorted by state and by date. These primaries are used by political parties to determine which candidate will go on the general election ballot on Nov. 4, 2014. We have provided a link to the official web information from each state. These sources also list other pertinent dates, such as candidate filing dates.

The earliest primary is held in Texas on March 4. Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island use the latest date, Sept. 9. June is the busiest month, with 18 primaries. No primaries take place in April or July.

NIne states have reserved dates for a primary runoff, if no candidate gets the requisite percentage of votes. For details on how runoffs work in each state, visit NCSL's Primary Runoffs webpage.

The manner in which party primary elections are conducted varies widely from state to state. Please visit the State Primary Elections page for information on types of primaries, such as "closed," "open" and "Top Two."

Some states continue to use precinct-level caucuses prior to primaries. For instance, Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota and Washington's Democrats will hold caucuses this year. How—and even whether—these caucuses play a role in selecting candidates varies by state and by political party.

For additional information, contact NCSL's Election Team at 303-364-7700.

2014 State Primary Dates and Runoff Dates: Sorted by State and by Date

*  CA and WA - All candidates for voter-nominated offices are listed on one ballot and only the top two vote-getters in the primary election – regardless of party preference - move on to the general election.