Some New Mexico voters headed to the polls Tuesday for a series of municipal elections across the state, delivering decisive victories in some cities, razor-thin margins in others, and at least one high-profile mayoral upset.
Española: Salazar Unseats First-Term Mayor
In Española, incumbent first-term Mayor John Ramon Vigil was defeated by former City Councilor Dennis Tim Salazar in a race that drew significantly higher turnout than previous municipal elections.
According to unofficial results, Salazar secured 860 votes, or 60.18%, compared to Vigil’s 569 votes, or 39.82%.
Earlier in the evening, unofficial tallies provided by the city clerk showed Salazar with a commanding lead. The Santa Fe New Mexican reported Salazar appeared poised to “handily unseat” Vigil as early numbers showed him leading comfortably over both Vigil and a write-in candidate.
By the time final unofficial numbers were reported, Salazar’s margin had widened into a decisive victory. Outside Española City Hall, Salazar celebrated with family members as supporters gathered to mark the win. Meanwhile, a solemn-looking Vigil was seen speaking quietly with friends and family outside one of the polling locations.
Municipal Judge Joseph Madrid also won reelection Tuesday.
Salazar, a former councilor, now returns to city leadership at a time when Española faces ongoing economic and public safety challenges. The upset marks a significant shift in leadership after just one term for Vigil.
Ruidoso: Crawford Survives by 23 Votes
In contrast to Española’s clear outcome, the mayoral race in Ruidoso came down to just 23 votes.
Incumbent Mayor Lynn Crawford narrowly defeated challenger Joshua Richardson, 720 votes (50.81%) to 697 votes (49.19%), according to unofficial results. All results remain pending canvass by the Lincoln County Commission.
Richardson reportedly led in election-day, in-person voting at the Ruidoso Convention Center. However, Crawford’s early-vote advantage — 263 to 155 — ultimately proved decisive, allowing the 63-year-old mayor to secure a third consecutive term.
Turnout was robust for a municipal election, with 1,435 ballots cast — approximately 27% of the village’s more than 5,000 eligible voters.
Voters also approved a $3 million General Obligation bond for water system repairs and improvements by a wide margin, 1,003 to 369.
In village council races, Everett Brophy led all candidates with 854 votes. Adam Sanchez and incumbent Darren Hooker also secured seats, while incumbent Joe Eby fell short.
Artesia: Youtsey Wins Close Mayoral Race
In Artesia, Mayor Pro Tem Jeffrey Youtsey won the mayor’s race, defeating challenger Terrance Todd in a tight contest.
Youtsey received 51% of the vote to Todd’s 49%, according to unofficial returns. He will replace outgoing Mayor Jonathan Henry, who currently serves as state representative for the area, and opted not to seek a second term.
Several city council races were also decided, including a narrow 50.4% to 49.5% win for Terry Hill in District 4. Results will be canvassed by the Eddy County Commission.
Rio Rancho: Runoff Ahead
In Rio Rancho, no candidate secured the required majority in a six-person mayoral contest, triggering a runoff election.
City Councilor Paul Wymer led the field with 6,174 votes (46%), followed by Alexandria Piland with 3,540 votes (26%). The two will face off April 14.
Wymer emphasized his development experience and infrastructure priorities during the campaign, while Piland focused on fiscal responsibility and stricter development standards. The winner will succeed outgoing Mayor Gregg Hull.
Incumbent Karissa Culbreath won reelection to the District 5 City Council seat, defeating challenger Calvin Ward.
Clovis: Incumbents Sweep
In Clovis, incumbents dominated city commission races. Megan A. Palla retained District 4 with 61.56% of the vote in the most competitive race. Debbie Zamora won District 3 with 63%, and Juan Garza held District 1 with nearly 80%.
Turnout was low, with just 844 voters participating — roughly 4% of eligible voters.
Elections Brought Change
From decisive upsets to razor-thin margins, New Mexico’s March 3 municipal elections reshaped leadership in several key cities while setting the stage for at least one high-stakes runoff in April.
It would have been nice to include party affiliations so the rest of the state can see if there is any sea change for Republicans & that idiots who constantly vote DemoncRAT out of ignorance are coming to their senses.
more democrats voted in texas than republicans. what does that tell you.
statewide voter turn out was 15 percent. absolutely pitiful and disgraceful.