New Mexico Primary: With Alyssa Kuhn, & Scott Michlin

The Scott Michlin Morning Program

Thursday, April 30, 2026 - 10 minutes

This segment is an interview with the San Juan County Clerk explaining changes and details for the upcoming New Mexico primary election.

Key points:

Semi-open primary: For the first time, “declined-to-state” (independent) voters can participate without changing their registration. They simply choose either a Republican or Democratic ballot when they check in, but cannot vote across both parties.
Voter guidance: Voters should research candidates beforehand, since their ballot choice determines which races they can vote in.
Deadlines & voting options:
- Voter registration changes must be made by May 5.
- Early voting begins May 5 at the clerk’s office and expands to multiple locations on May 16.
- Absentee ballots are mailed starting May 5.
- Election Day is June 2, with 33 vote centers available countywide.
Accessibility: Same-day voter registration is available (though slower), and voters can cast ballots at any vote center in the county.
Other updates: One polling location has changed, and officials are unsure if turnout will increase, though competitive races may draw more voters.