What Time Does Maryland's Primary Start?

Maryland, the Old Line State: it's second heaviest delegate count for Democrats, and first for Republicans, of the five states voting on Tuesday, April 26. The Acela Primary — composed of Delaware, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, and Maryland — is determined to set some trends in stone, if it possibly can. Secretary Hillary Clinton is determined to trounce Sen. Bernie Sanders, and Sen. Ted Cruz and Gov. John Kasich have joined forces in an attempt to put the proverbial wrench in the Donald Trump movement. Only voters, however, can make these determinations, so what time does Maryland's primary start, so citizens can perform their civil duty?

In Maryland, polls open at 7 a.m., a prime hour for anybody looking to get stuck in rush hour traffic. Nevertheless, voting continues throughout the entire day, and polls will close at 8 p.m. This gives Maryland voters a solid 13 hours to cast their votes for their favorites, who, in this case, also consist of mayoral and city council seats in Baltimore, as well as Montgomery and Prince George counties' school board races.

For voters who are uncertain of their polling locations, the Maryland State Board of Elections lists them conveniently on their website.

Some first-time voters are required to present identification at their polling locations. The following forms of ID are acceptable: a photo ID, such as a Maryland driver’s license, Maryland Vehicle Administration ID card, student, employee, or military ID card, U.S. passport, or any other federal government-issued identification card. Also accepted are a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or any other government document that shows name and address. Any of these documents must have a date within three months of the election date visibly printed on them.

When can viewers expect to see election results from the Old Line State? Most likely, the news will begin toward the end of the evening, just before polls begin to close. Outcomes from exit polls tend to air first, followed by hard results. However, since Maryland polls do not actually close until 8 p.m., unless there is an overwhelming trend in one direction (e.g. most votes are going to one candidate), the results could take some hours before they are finalized.

So, get voting, Maryland — and remember, no selfies in the voting booth. Also, make sure to pack an umbrella for the trip, because it looks like stormy weather!