What is a Municipal Election?

Biennially (in the odd-numbered years), the voters of Portsmouth elect their governing bodies: 

City Council

School Board

Fire Commission

Police Commission

Board of Registrars

Ward Officials

Election Information

The City Council is elected At-Large. Whereas the candidate receiving the highest number of votes will be elected as Mayor of Portsmouth. The candidate receiving the second-highest number of votes will be elected as Assistant Mayor of Portsmouth, followed by seven Councilors.

When is the Municipal Election?

Content

The next Municipal Election will be on November 4, 2025.

Voter Registration Requirements

  • 18 years of age, or will be 18 prior to election day
  • Photo ID
  • Proof of Residency (Portsmouth Physical address)
  • U.S. Citizen or Naturalized Citizen with U.S. Passport and Naturalization Documentation

Polling Hours

The polling hours will be set by the City Council at the at the September 8 City Council Meeting.

Last Day to Register

The last day to register to vote prior to the Municipal Election is to be determined.

Absentee Ballots

Absentee Ballot Applications for the Municipal Election will be made available 30 days prior to the election. Absentee Ballot Applications will be posted on the City Clerk's Voting Information page or by visiting the City Clerk's office.