By MISSI CURRIER
President & CEO
New Mexico Oil and Gas Association
Every election cycle brings debates about candidates, policies, and politics. But at its core, voting is about something much bigger: shaping the future of New Mexico and ensuring your voice is heard on the issues that matter most to you, your family, and your community.
Primary elections are now underway across New Mexico, and this year’s races will help determine decisions about our economy, education system, healthcare, infrastructure, public safety, energy policy, and job creation for years to come. Those choices impact every New Mexican, regardless of political party or where they live.
That’s why participation matters, and you still have time to make it happen.
Too often, people feel like their vote won’t make a difference or that politics has become too divisive to engage in. But when people stay home, others make decisions for them.
New Mexico’s civic participation is alarming. According to the New Mexico Secretary of State, the overall turnout rate of eligible voters in the 2022 primary was only 25.2. Only a quarter of the state’s population weighed in.
Primary elections are often decided by a relatively small number of votes, but we can change that and raise our collective voices. The leaders elected this year will make decisions that affect the cost of living, business growth, energy reliability and access, education and workforce development, and opportunities for future generations.
This election cycle is also historic because, for the first time, “decline to state” voters can participate in New Mexico’s primary elections by selecting either a Democrat or Republican ballot at check-in. That change gives more New Mexicans the opportunity to have a say in races that will shape the direction of our state.
You can still make a plan to vote and register to vote. Please visit www.nmforopportunity.org to learn more.
No matter what industry you work in or what issues matter most to you, voting is one of the most important ways to influence the future. For many New Mexicans, that means supporting policies that strengthen our economy and create opportunities for working families.
For those of us in the oil and gas industry, the stakes are especially high. Oil and natural gas support more than 100,000 jobs across New Mexico and generate billions of dollars each year that help fund public schools, healthcare, roads, and infrastructure. The industry plays a critical role in supporting all communities across the state and keeping New Mexico economically competitive.
Your voice deserves to be part of the future of our state. Voting is how we make priorities known, and we hold leaders accountable.
Early voting is already underway for the primary, and primary day is June 2. Make a plan to vote, check your registration status, and encourage your friends, family, and coworkers to take part, as well. Every voice matters, and every vote does, too. New Mexico’s future will be shaped by the people who show up.