• 00Days Before NM Primaries

Veterans & Military Families Caucus

Democratic Party of New Mexico

Message From the Chair

Registered Independents Can Now Vote In Major Party Primaries

May 4, 2026

Frank J. Smith

Dear Members of the Veterans and Military Families Caucus, 

This Tuesday marks a significant milestone for New Mexico’s democracy. As we begin primary voting, we are finally seeing the results of the semi-open primary system our caucus has long supported.

​This change ensures that more voices are heard in the selection of our candidates. To help you and your fellow veterans navigate these changes, here is a quick breakdown of how the new system works:

DTS and Independent Voters:

These Voters may now choose to vote using either a Democratic or Republican primary ballot.

No Registration Change:

Choosing a specific party ballot for the primary does not change your underlying voter registration.

Major-Party Voters:

If you are already registered with a major party, you will continue to vote in your party’s primary as usual.

General Election: 

These changes apply only to the primary; the General Election process remains unchanged.

​This is a victory for inclusivity ensuring that those who served the country are not sidelined during the candidate selection process. I encourage you to head to the polls starting this Tuesday and to share this information with your networks to ensure every veteran’s voice is counted.

​Thank you for your continued dedication to the caucus and our community.

Semper Fi, 

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