Bernalillo County exceeds voter turnout in New Mexico Primary
Bernalillo County in New Mexico reported a 24.7% voter turnout by 6 p.m. on Primary Election Day, surpassing the 22% turnout from the 2022 primary, driven by new participation from independent voters. Statewide, over 307,000 ballots had been cast by 5 p.m., exceeding the 2022 midterm primary totals, with officials attributing the increase to expanded access for independents and high interest in the gubernatorial race.
New Mexico’s Primary Election Day saw record early turnout in Bernalillo County, with voter participation reaching 24.7% by 6 p.m., surpassing the 22% turnout recorded in the 2022 primary. County Clerk Michelle Kavanaugh attributed the surge to the inclusion of independent voters, who can now choose between Democratic or Republican ballots, and heightened interest in the gubernatorial race. Polling sites in Bernalillo County reported high traffic, with some locations processing over 1,000 voters each. Statewide, more than 307,000 ballots had been cast by 5 p.m., exceeding the total votes cast in the 2022 midterm primary. New Mexico’s Secretary of State noted that the election drew nearly 22% turnout, with nearly 400,000 newly registered independents contributing to the increased participation. Santa Fe County Clerk Katharine Clark observed that independent voters were turning out in higher numbers compared to past elections, though overall turnout remained consistent with projections. Election officials emphasized the impact of allowing independents to vote in party primaries, a change implemented for the first time this year. Bernalillo County voter Katrina Criego highlighted the excitement of in-person voting, while Michael Montoya, another voter, expressed long-standing civic engagement, noting he had participated in every election since turning 18. All 74 polling locations in Bernalillo County remained open until 7 p.m., with officials confirming voters in line by the deadline would still be able to cast their ballots. The shift in voter demographics and increased engagement reflects broader trends in New Mexico’s electoral landscape. Officials credited the gubernatorial race as a key driver of turnout, drawing voters who might otherwise have stayed home. As the day progressed, the state’s total voter count continued to climb, signaling a potential record-breaking primary season.
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