Semi-Open Primary Races
Semi-Open Primaries – A Historic Victory for Independent Voters This voting access measure directly addresses the exclusion that independent voters faced for decades. As one advocate put it: "Democracy works best when everyone has a seat at the table.”
When independent voters can participate:
More voices are heard in candidate selection. Candidates must appeal to broader constituencies, not just party bases
Turnout increases because more people can participate
Government becomes more representative of all New Mexicans.
What Are Semi-Open Primaries?
Semi-open primaries are a new election law passed in 2025 that allows independent or Decline-to-State voters to vote in Democratic and Republican primaries. This is Senate Bill 16 (SB16), signed by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
For the first time in New Mexico history, 2026 marks the first year that Decline-to-State voters and members of smaller minority parties can participate in primary elections without changing their registration.
Before and After: What Changed?
Before SB16 (Closed Primaries)
❌ Only registered Democrats could vote in Democratic primaries
❌ Only registered Republicans could vote in Republican primaries
❌ Independent/Decline-to-State voters were completely locked out
❌ Approximately 200,000+ voters had no say in choosing candidates
❌ Party insiders handpicked candidates behind closed doors
After SB16 (Semi-Open Primaries)
✅ Independent voters can now participate in either party's primary
✅ Decline-to-State voters can choose which primary to vote in
✅ No need to change registration permanently
✅ Approximately 200,000+ new voters can now participate
Who Can Now Vote in Primaries?
The following voters can now participate in major party primaries:
✅ Independent voters – Those not affiliated with any political party
✅ Decline-to-State voters – Those who chose not to affiliate when registering
✅ Members of smaller minority parties – Voters affiliated with minor parties
You do NOT need to:
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Change your voter registration
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Permanently affiliate with a party
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Miss work on Election Day (early voting is available)
How to Vote in Primaries as
an Independent:
Step 1: Check Your Registration
Visit NMVote.org to confirm you're registered to vote. Make sure your address and information are current.
Step 2: Know Your Options
When you arrive at your polling place or early voting location:
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You can choose to vote in the Democratic primary OR the Republican primary
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You cannot vote in both primaries
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Your choice doesn't change your registration status
Step 3: Vote Early or on Election Day
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Early voting begins before June 2, 2026 (primary election)
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Same-day registration is available during early voting periods
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Election Day is June 2, 2026 for primaries
Step 4: Ask for Help if Needed
Poll workers are trained to help you understand your options. Don't hesitate to ask questions.
What You Can Do
✅ Check your registration at NMVote.org
✅ Tell independent friends they can now vote in primaries
✅ Vote early to avoid lines and have time to research
✅ Share this information with family and community members
✅ Participate in the primary – your voice matters