Democrats and Republicans, it’s time to vote

For Democrats and Republicans across New Mexico, today is an opportunity to participate in one of the most significant elections in the state’s history.

If you haven’t already done it, it’s time to vote.

Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. If you were registered as a Democrat or Republican as of May 6, you’re eligible to vote today. Think your vote doesn’t matter? There are at least four federal primary races that are up in the air. The Republican U.S. Senate primary could be won by either candidate. Several candidates are competing heavily for both the Republican and Democratic nominations in the 2nd Congressional District race. At least two candidates have a shot at walking away with victory in the 3rd Congressional District Democratic race.

This is one of the most hotly contested primary seasons ever. Your vote matters. Please vote.

Many of you, particularly Republicans, are doing just that. In counties across the state, voter turnout for the GOP appears to be high, driven primarily by a hotly contested U.S. Senate primary. Expect voter turnout in the Roswell area to be especially high because so much money is being spent on two Republican state legislative primaries there.

For the Democrats, the U.S. House races headline the ticket. Though there’s a hot race in the 2nd Congressional District, I’m told that voter turnout isn’t that high for Democrats in many counties across southern New Mexico. Why not? You need to vote.

In Las Cruces, there are plenty of other reasons to vote, especially if you’re a Democrat. Two incumbent state legislators are facing tough challengers. There’s a hot four-way Democratic primary for county clerk, with three of the candidates – including the incumbent clerk – currently working in that office.

In Albuquerque, there are several hot Democratic legislative primaries that could lead to the defeat of longtime lawmakers. And in Roswell, two Republican legislative incumbents are in fights for their political survival against big money.

There is so much that is interesting about this primary election. New Mexico’s political system has experienced unprecedented upheaval because U.S. Sen. Pete Domenici is retiring. Today, the dust begins to settle.

Vote. And check this site frequently later today, as I’ll be reporting on election results throughout the evening and, if necessary, the night.

In the meantime, here are some useful links:

• Las Cruces Sun-News election page

• Albuquerque Journal voter guide

• Secretary of State’s Office

• Find your polling place (Doña Ana County)

• Find your polling place (the rest of the state)

• Candidates on the ballot (Doña Ana County)

• Statewide candidates on the ballot

• Check your voter registration information