Reminder: Key Louisville primary races are nonpartisan this year, and it's a big change

Hey, there's something really important you need to know for the Kentucky primary election on May 19th. If you are *** registered voter in Louisville, whether that's Democrat, Republican, or Independent, you can vote. But let's get to this. If you are an independent registered voter, you've never been able to vote in *** primary before. So that's *** big change. Registered independents can vote in the primary election. You are going to be given your own ballot. If you're *** Democrat or Republican, those ballots are going to stay the same. But again, because of *** change in state law, Louisville is having its very first nonpartisan primary. So that means everyone, any registered voter can go to the polls on May 19th. You can also see *** sample ballot online. You can go to the county clerk's website as well as WLKY.com. We've got all your election information there and don't forget to vote in the May 19th primary.

Updated: 3:49 PM EDT May 18, 2026

Editorial Standards ⓘ

Updated: 3:49 PM EDT May 18, 2026

Editorial Standards ⓘ

Reminder! A law change now makes it so all registered voters in Louisville can vote in the primary, even Independents.In years past, Louisville's mayoral and metro council races were partisan.But on May 19, for the first time, there will be no party affiliation for those races, and every registered voter will see the same candidate list.That also means that for the first time, registered Independents can vote in a primary.Judicial races have been nonpartisan and will continue to be.So, there will be three ballots available: one for Republicans, Democrats and a nonpartisan ballot.So, here's something important to know before you vote: If you vote straight ticket, it will NOT fill in those nonpartisan races. You must pick from the full list of candidates.Still have questions? Check out this list of FAQs.The primary election for Kentucky is May 19.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. —

Reminder! A law change now makes it so all registered voters in Louisville can vote in the primary, even Independents.

In years past, Louisville's mayoral and metro council races were partisan.

But on May 19, for the first time, there will be no party affiliation for those races, and every registered voter will see the same candidate list.

That also means that for the first time, registered Independents can vote in a primary.

Judicial races have been nonpartisan and will continue to be.

So, there will be three ballots available: one for Republicans, Democrats and a nonpartisan ballot.

Jefferson County Clerk's Office

Sample nonpartisan ballot

So, here's something important to know before you vote: If you vote straight ticket, it will NOT fill in those nonpartisan races. You must pick from the full list of candidates.

Still have questions? Check out this list of FAQs.

The primary election for Kentucky is May 19.

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Reminder: Key Louisville primary races are nonpartisan this year, and it's a big change

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