Middle Tenn. - Ahead of Early Voting, Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett is encouraging registered voters across the state to take part in the Honor Vote program, an initiative that allows Tennesseans to dedicate their ballot to a United States veteran or active-duty service member.

The program is designed to serve as a reminder that the right to vote has been protected through generations of military service and sacrifice. This year, participants will receive a special commemorative 250th Honor Vote button recognizing America’s founding and the men and women who have defended, and continue to defend, the nation’s freedoms.

“At a time when our freedoms are on full display, the Honor Vote program offers Tennesseans a meaningful way to recognize those who defend them,” said Secretary Hargett. “Casting a ballot in someone’s honor is a simple yet powerful way to express our gratitude to the brave men and women who protect the United States of America.”

Registered voters who participate in the Honor Vote program can dedicate their vote to a veteran or active-duty service member. Participants will receive an informational guide, along with the limited-edition 2026 commemorative Honor Vote button, which can be worn at the polls.

Dedications will also be recognized on the official Tennessee Honor Vote List.

Tennesseans are encouraged to share their participation and tributes online using #GoVoteTN and #TNHonorVote as a way to promote gratitude, civic pride, and voter participation across the Volunteer State.

The 2026 election calendar includes several important dates for voters to remember. The voter registration deadline is Tuesday, July 7, 2026. Early Voting will run from Friday, July 17 through Saturday, August 1, 2026. Election Day is Thursday, August 6, 2026.

Voters can find polling locations, voting hours, sample ballot information, and other election details by downloading the free GoVoteTN app or visiting GoVoteTN.gov.

To register a dedication through the Honor Vote program or learn more, visit honorvote.govotetn.gov.