New Mexico
Last updated: July 17, 2020
In the state’s June 2 primary, New Mexico residents turned out to vote in impressive numbers, reaching approximately 42% turnout despite the COVID-19 pandemic and a non-competitive primary election. Election officials reported a record high number of absentee ballots in this election compared to prior years. The influx of election-related mail overwhelmed the U.S. Postal Service, resulting in significant mail delays to voters awaiting their absentee ballots and vote-counting delays. In-person voter turnout, in contrast, was relatively light, as most voters chose to vote absentee. New Mexico’s June 2 primary also revealed ballot access barriers for vulnerable members of the population, including Native American and senior voters, who are at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19. New Mexico confronts these challenges as the November 3 general election approaches.