As New Mexicans head to the polls Tuesday, voters are preparing to cast ballots in critical races that will influence the future direction of both the state and the nation, with Republicans setting their sights on flipping many legislative seats. From a fierce congressional contest to pivotal state legislature seats, this election offers conservative voters the best chance in decades to flip the state. Here’s what New Mexico voters need to know as they make their final decisions.
Spotlight on the Key Races
With the U.S. Presidency up for grabs, 45th President Donald J. Trump is within the margin of error in New Mexico against Democrat Kamala Harris, according to polling, with the best shot at flipping the state in 20 years.
In New Mexico’s Second Congressional District, incumbent Democrat Gabe Vasquez faces a strong challenge from Republican former Congresswoman Yvette Herrell. The race is expected to be close, with Vasquez and Herrell presenting sharply different views on topics such as immigration reform, energy policies, and economic growth, with Vasquez’s lengthy rap sheet and far-left voting record a sticking point of the campaign.
The U.S. Senate race currently held by far-left Sen. Martin Heinrich is one of the closest in recent history. According to recent polling, Republican Nella Domenici is just a single point away from clinching the seat.
New Boundaries in State Senate Races
This year’s Senate election will be the first conducted under newly redrawn district lines implemented after recent redistricting. This shift has left several seats in a tighter balance between Democrats and Republicans, even though some districts remain solidly partisan. While Democrats have fielded candidates in 33 of the state’s Senate districts, Republicans compete in 24.
Several notable races with slim performance margins include:
- Senate District 9: With no incumbent, far-left Democrat and “DACA” recipient Cindy Nava and Republican Audrey Trujillo are vying for the seat, which has a slight Democratic tilt based on voting patterns. This district spans Sandoval County and parts of Albuquerque’s Paradise Hills neighborhood, making it a closely watched race.
- Senate District 12: Following significant redistricting changes, this district leans Republican, providing Sandoval County Commissioner Jay Block with a potential advantage over Democrat Phillip Ramirez. The district, once in Albuquerque’s downtown, now covers parts of Rio Rancho, shifting the voter demographic.
- Senate District 18: Democrat state Rep. Natalie Figueroa and Republican Kurstin Johnson compete for an open seat that retains a modest Democratic lean in Albuquerque. However, the recent boundary shifts may influence its competitiveness.
- Senate District 20: Incumbent Democrat state Sen. Martin Hickey is fighting to hold onto his seat in a district that is closely divided between parties. Hickey’s strong Republican opponent, Wayne Yevoli, aims to shift the balance in this Foothills region of Albuquerque.
- Senate District 29: With a new layout spanning from Los Lunas to Socorro, this race has Republican Sen. Joshua Sanchez and Democrat Tina Garcia competing in what is now a slightly Republican-leaning district.
Key House Races to Watch
The New Mexico House of Representatives, already operating under redistricted lines from 2022, will also see its fair share of competitive seats. Democrats previously won 10 of the 12 House districts decided by narrow margins, but many key races are expected to be nail-biters, including the following:
- House District 17: Democrat Cynthia Borrego and Republican Joshua Neal are competing for a district with moderate Democratic leanings.
- House District 28: Incumbent Democrat Pamelya Herndon is defending her seat against Republican Marcie May.
- House District 53: Far-left radical Sarah Silva (D) is running against Elizabeth Winterrowd (R) in a district that could swing.
- House District 68: Democrat Charlotte Little and Republican Nathan Brooks are vying for a district with one of the slimmest partisan margins.
How to Vote: Locations, Options, and Deadlines
New Mexico voters can verify polling locations on the New Mexico Secretary of State’s website or by contacting their local county clerk’s office. Polls open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 7:00 p.m. on Election Day, November 5.
If voters still have their absentee ballots but have not yet turned them in, they can hand-deliver them to a polling location or a drop box.
Voters are encouraged to check their sample ballots in advance to be familiar with all races and any ballot measures. If voting absentee, double-check that your ballot is signed and submitted correctly.
Resources and Reminders
For comprehensive election details, including sample ballots, polling place information, and voter ID requirements, visit the New Mexico Secretary of State’s website at NMVote.org.
New Mexico voters have a vital opportunity to shape the future of their communities and the state. Making an informed vote on November 5 ensures every vote counts.