Katharine Clark/Courtesy photo
CAMPAIGN NEWS RELEASE
Secretary of State candidate Katharine Clark won the Democratic Party of New Mexico convention vote this weekend with 46.18% of the vote, earning delegates’ support across the state and building strong momentum heading into the final weeks before the Democratic primary election. Amanda Lopez Askin received 35.84% and Sonya Smith received 17.97%.
Clark thanked delegates and supporters for backing her people-powered campaign and said the convention result reflects growing support for her vision to protect democracy and expand ballot access across New Mexico.
“I’m deeply honored by the support from Democratic delegates across our state,” Clark said. “This campaign has always been about building a people-powered movement that protects our democracy and ensures every New Mexican has the opportunity to participate in our elections.”
Clark said her campaign centers on defending democracy by protecting voters from chaos, doubt, and intimidation while ensuring elections remain transparent and trusted.
“Our democracy depends on elections that voters can trust,” Clark said. “As Secretary of State, I will work every day to ensure our elections are secure, transparent, and accessible to every eligible voter.”
Clark’s vision includes expanding ballot access through statewide youth civic education programs, expanding jailhouse voting opportunities, and strengthening voting access and transparency for Native American communities.
Clark also emphasized the importance of trusted election administration and collaboration with local officials.
“We have an incredible coalition of county clerks across New Mexico who run our elections with professionalism and integrity,” Clark said. “As Secretary of State, I will work alongside them to ensure 100 percent election night reporting and provide real-time turnout transparency so voters have confidence in our system.”
Clark also highlighted the need to reduce the influence of dark money in politics.
“Our democracy should be driven by voters — not special interests or dark money,” Clark said. “I will work to expand public financing, increase transparency around campaign finance reporting, and bring greater openness to the influence that shapes policy decisions at the Roundhouse.”
Clark said she will also continue modernizing the Secretary of State’s Office by investing in modern technology and creating a clear, user-friendly website that makes it easier for voters, businesses, and candidates to interact with the office.
Despite the convention victory, Clark emphasized that the real work of the campaign now begins.
“This moment gives our campaign momentum, but the real work lies ahead,” Clark said. “Over the next three weeks we will talk with hundreds of thousands of Democratic voters across New Mexico about the future of our democracy. We need your help — please go tohttps://www.katharineclark.com and donate.
Clark also reflected on the historic nature of her candidacy.
“Elections are the foundation of our democracy,” Clark said. “As the first openly LGBTQ person who could serve in executive office in New Mexico, I know personally that every New Mexican deserves the freedom to vote and have their voice counted.”
Clark concluded by thanking the volunteers, organizers, and supporters who helped build the campaign.
“This is just the beginning,” Clark said. “Together we’re building a campaign that reflects the values of fairness, transparency, and participation that define New Mexico. I’m honored to ask for the support and vote of Democratic voters to serve as the next Secretary of State.”
The Democratic primary election will take place in June.