LWVLA NEWS RELEASE

This year for the first time New Mexico will have a semi-open primary.  The state of New Mexico recognizes only four political parties for the purposes of primary elections: Republican, Democrat, Libertarian, and Green. A person who listed any other party name, did not specify a party, or wrote Declined to State (DTS), is considered to be DTS for the purpose of the primary election. Those considered as DTS can participate in primary elections without having to change their voter registration.  They may request either a Republican or a Democratic ballot at the polls.
 
DTS voters who want to vote absentee can request a mailed ballot at NMVote.org after April 7, 2026, but no later than May 19. They will be asked to select a Democratic or Republican ballot at that time. Or they can get a paper application for a mailed ballot from the County Clerk in the Municipal Building.

After April 7, 2026, permanent absentee voters who are DTS may select the ballot of their choice at https://www.sos.nm.gov/primary. The deadline for making the request is May 19.

Same day voter registration (SDR) is available to those who are not registered. It is also available to voters registered with a minor party (Libertarian or Green) who wish to register with one of the two major parties and vote.

Voters registered as Republican or Democratic can change their registration on May 5 or earlier. They cannot use SDR to switch parties. They can use SDR to change their name, address, or other contact information.

All voters, particularly those who recently changed their registration forms, should check their registration status.  To check your voter registration status, go to https://voterportal.servis.sos.state.nm.us/wheretovote.aspx.

Note that ANY registration changes made after May 5, except by Same Day Registration, will not take effect until after the primary election on June 2, 2026.