DPNM News:
Speakers emphasize Democratic unity, enthusiasm
The Democratic Party of New Mexico held its state pre-primary convention Saturday following weeks of DPNM staff and officers traveling to county and ward conventions.
More than 1,000 delegates from 28 New Mexico counties attended the meeting, where Democrats heard from candidates, approved a new platform, and voted to determine ballot order.
Democratic Party of New Mexico Chair Marg Elliston was elected Chair of the Convention and oversaw speeches and presentations from elected officials, candidates, and party leaders. Throughout the day, Democrats emphasized the importance of uniting around our common ideals in order to defeat Republican candidates in November.
“We have so many incredible candidates running for office this year, and we’re excited to see Democrats across New Mexico energized by these campaigns,” said DPNM Chair Marg Elliston during her speech at the convention. “This November, New Mexicans are going to have the opportunity to elect leaders who truly represent our values. We’re looking forward to organizing, donating, volunteering, and turning out to vote like never before. The Democratic Party of New Mexico is starting strong, and we’re excited to have each and every one of you on our side as we head into this critical election.”
Delegates at the convention voted for Statewide and Congressional candidates in order to determine ballot order in the June 2 Democratic Primary. Candidates had to receive at least 20 percent of the vote in order to qualify for the ballot through pre-primary convention designation. Those who do not qualify through pre-primary convention designation can collect additional signatures in order to be placed on the ballot.
Preliminary numbers indicate candidates received the following percentage of the vote:
United States Senate
- Representative Ben Ray Luján: 100%
New Mexico Supreme Court
- Justice Shannon Bacon: 100%
- Justice David Thomson: 100%
New Mexico Court of Appeals
- Judge Zach Ives: 100%
- Judge Shammara Henderson: 100%
U.S. House of Representatives – CD1
- Representative Deb Haaland: 100%
U.S. House of Representatives – CD2
- Representative Xochitl Torres Small – 100%
U.S. House of Representatives – CD3
- Teresa Leger Fernandez – 41.88%
- Laura Montoya – 20.47%
- Marco Serna – 13.41%
- Joseph Sanchez – 12.23%
- Valerie Plame – 5.18%
- John Blair – 4.47%
- Kyle Tisdel – 2.35%
The Democratic Party of New Mexico also approved a new platform with 96 percent support and passed a rule change that allows for absentee balloting with 89 percent support.
