More than 15,000 voters have already cast ballots in New Mexico’s primary elections, according to the Secretary of State’s office.
As of Tuesday morning, more than 9,200 registered Democrats and about 4,600 Republicans have voted. Another 1,300 ballots were cast by voters who declined to state a party.
This year marks the first time independent voters in New Mexico can take part in primary elections by selecting the ballot of a major party. Officials say it is still unclear how those independent voters split between Democratic and Republican primaries, but a more detailed report is expected.
Early voting is currently taking place at county clerk offices across the state. Expanded early voting locations are scheduled to open on May 16.
Voters have until May 19 to request a mail-in or absentee ballot. Early voting will continue through May 30, with Election Day set for June 2.
