As Galveston County heads to the polls on Nov. 5, voters will make decisions in critical national, state, and local races. Here’s a quick guide on where to vote, what to bring, and what’s on the ballot.

As Election Day approaches on Nov. 5, Galveston County voters join the nation in casting their ballots in crucial presidential, state, and local races. Here’s a guide to help ensure a smooth voting experience.
Voting Locations and Hours
Thanks to Texas's countywide polling program, Galveston County voters can vote at any polling location. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Voters in line by 7 p.m. will still be allowed to vote.
Identification Requirements
Voters must bring one of the following approved IDs: a Texas driver’s license, election ID certificate, personal ID card, handgun license, U.S. citizenship certificate with a photo, U.S. military ID card, or passport. An alternative ID (such as a utility bill or bank statement) plus a signed Reasonable Impediment Declaration is acceptable for those lacking these IDs.
What’s on the Ballot?
The ballot includes national races for president and U.S. Senate, Texas U.S. House seats, and statewide races like railroad commissioner and Texas Supreme Court seats. Local races include sheriff, tax assessor-collector, county commissioners, and constables. Several cities and school districts also have propositions and board races.
Polling Etiquette and Restrictions
Within 100 feet of polling locations, campaigning, use of cellphones, recording devices, and firearms are prohibited. Voters wearing political apparel may be asked to cover up.
Early turnout in Galveston County has been high, with over 134,000 residents voting early. Review your ballot and get to the polls early to avoid lines.
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The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has closed the oyster harvesting area TX-5 in Galveston Bay after reef health fell below sustainability thresholds, leaving only two public areas open in the bay as the season continues.
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The Gulf Coast Protection District voted unanimously Jan. 21 to advance preliminary engineering and design work on the long-debated Galveston Bay Barrier System, a $31 billion centerpiece of the broader Coastal Texas Project. Supporters call it critical storm protection; critics question its cost, timeline, and effectiveness.
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A $35 million beach renourishment project on Pensacola Beach is nearing completion, with 1.5 million cubic yards of sand set to be placed along 8.1 miles of shoreline ahead of peak spring tourism. Similar restoration efforts have wrapped up in Galveston, Texas.