HOUSTON, TX — The deadline for voters to register so they can participate in the 2018 Texas Primary election is next Monday, Feb. 5. Texas will host the first statewide primaries of 2018 on March 6 for both Democrat and Republican primaries. Registering online isn't an option in Texas, and voters must submit voter applications at least 30 days before the election. Here's how to register.

Texans can fill out an application in person at their county's voter registrar's office or pick up a copy at local libraries, most post offices and high schools or other places that advertise they re registering voters. Applications can be requested online or through snail mail. Voters must submit their registration to the county where they are a resident. Any other information regarding the elections or how to register can be found on the Texas Secretary of State's website. Mailed applications must be postmarked before or on Feb. 5. The race for U.S. Senate will be at the top of the ballot for both Republicans and Democrats. Incumbent U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz will face four Republican challengers in his re-election bid. Houston lawyer Stefano de Stefano is one of the challengers to Cruz.

U.S. Rep. Beto O'Rourke, a Democrat from El Paso, is the most well-known of three Democrats hoping to face Cruz this November in the general election. O'Rourke raised more money than Cruz so far in campaign contributions. There are lots of state and local races on the ballot, including nine candidates in the Democratic gubernatorial primary. Former Dallas County Sheriff Lupe Valdez and Houston entrepreneur Andrew White, son of late Texas Gov. Mark White, are the top names on the Democrat side.

Republican Land Commissioner George P. Bush will face three primary challengers, including Jerry Patterson, who previously held the office before Bush won it last mid-term cycle..

All seats in the Texas House of Representatives will be on the ballot, and half of the Texas Senate seats are on the ballot.

