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 base
-
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, Independent/Decline-to-State voters can participate in primary elections without changing their registration.
*Note: Members of smaller parties in New Mexico (Green Party, Libertarian Party, etc.) who want to vote in the primary can choose to vote/update their information via Same Day Voter Registration at a polling location.
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
❌ Approximately 200,000+ voters had no say in choosing candidates
❌ Party insiders handpicked candidates behind closed doors
After SB16 (Semi-Open Primaries)
✅ Independent and Decline-to-State voters can now participate in either party's primary
✅ 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
You do NOT need to:
-
Change your voter registration
-
Permanently affiliate with a party
-
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:
-
You can choose to vote in the Democratic primary OR the Republican primary
-
You cannot vote in both primaries
-
Your choice doesn't change your registration status
Step 3: Vote Early or on Election Day
-
Early voting begins before June 2, 2026 (primary election)
-
Same-day registration is available during early voting periods
-
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