CCNM News:
ALBUQUERQUE — Common Cause New Mexico is teaming up with the ACLU of New Mexico to run a nonpartisan voter protection program this year to assist voters who encounter problems in voting either by mail or in person.
The organizations will operate teams on the ground to field questions and staff a hotline for voters to report problems. The hotline number is 866-OUR-VOTE (866.687.8683) or, for Spanish speakers, 888-VEY-VOTA.
“With wildfires and several important changes in voting procedures, this year‘s primary presents challenges for voters who want to exercise their right to vote,” said Mario Jimenez, campaigns director of Common Cause New Mexico. “New Mexicans should feel secure that they can cast their ballot in a number of different ways, and that it will be counted as cast and anyone who interferes or tampers with elections will be held accountable.”
Jimenez says that this year’s primary kicks off same-day registration, allowing new voters to register and vote on the same day with no waiting period. Also, registered voters who have declined to state their party affiliation can vote in the primary—if they sign up for one of the major parties.
“The changes—combined with any partisan interference—may create some confusion and we are here to help,” Jimenez said.
Common Cause New Mexico has been running an election protection program since 2008 to make sure that every eligible New Mexico voter who wants to vote can and that every vote is counted accurately. The program is not affiliated with any party, candidate or issue campaign.
The hotlines will be staffed by attorneys, law students and those with a legal background who are familiar with the NM Election Code and will provide voters with live assistance if they encounter any snafus or irregularities. Trained volunteers on the ground will monitor voting at polling places and verify acceptance and counting of absentee ballots in coordination with attorneys.
“As efforts to cast doubts on the integrity of our elections continue, it is essential that we have trained, non-partisan observers on hand throughout the election process in New Mexico to assist voters who encounter problems in voting,” ACLU of New Mexico Policy Counsel Nia Rucker said. “We are excited to once again join in this effort to safeguard the democratic process in our state to ensure every eligible voter is able to cast a ballot if they wish to.”
Anyone who wants to volunteer to help in their own county as a poll watcher or monitor can sign up for training at https:////protectthevote.net or by calling 575.571.8507. People with legal backgrounds who want to volunteer for the hotline contact https://electionprotection.wetheaction.org or call 575.571.8507.
About Common Cause
Common Cause is a nonpartisan grassroots organization dedicated to upholding the core values of American democracy. We work to create open, honest, and accountable government that serves the public interest; to promote equal rights, opportunity, and representation for all; and empower all people to make their voices heard as equals in the political process.