New Mexico Primary: With Alyssa Kuhn, & Scott Michlin

The Scott Michlin Morning Program

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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. 
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  •  Early voting begins May 5 at the clerk’s office and expands to multiple locations on May 16. 
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  •  Absentee ballots are mailed starting May 5. 
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  •  Election Day is June 2, with 33 vote centers available countywide. 
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• 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. 

Overall, the interview focuses on making voters aware of the new semi-open primary system, key dates, and the many convenient ways to vote.

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