New Mexico launches new option for absentee ballot voters
NEW MEXICO (KRQE) –The state is launching its new option to make voting from home more convenient. Voters registered with a major party can now request to be added to a permanent absentee list.
The New Mexico Secretary of State’s Office says they’ve seen more people take advantage of absentee ballots since the pandemic. With the primary election weeks away, they’re hoping this option will encourage more voters to cast their ballots.
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“The more options people have to vote, the more those people will take advantage of those multiple options,” said Alex Curtas, Director of Communications, New Mexico Secretary of State’s Office.
Starting with this year’s primary election, voters requesting an absentee ballot will have the choice to sign up to be a part of the permanent absentee list, meaning they’ll automatically receive an absentee ballot in the mail for every election.
It’s all thanks to House Bill 4 that passed during the 2023 legislative session, after legislators said state voter turnout was lacking. Now the state is hoping this voluntary option will improve turnout while saving time for county clerks and election administrators.
“So, to have a whole cohort of people that they already know are going to want an absentee ballot requested, it makes ordering paper easier, ordering envelopes,” said Curtas.
People can request an absentee ballot for the primary election until May 21 and voters who sign up for the permanent list can remove themselves at any time. The New Mexico Secretary of State’s Office also assures the public that absentee voting is safe.
“Absentee voting is very secure, it’s something that’s been done in New Mexico and all around the nation for many, many, many years. It’s not something that was new in 2020, it’s certainly not something that’s new in 2024,” said Curtas.
The Secretary of State’s says they’re also launching a system called “Ballot Scout” that allows voters to track their ballot. They’re hoping to have it up and running in May. Voters can register for the permanent absentee list online or at your local county clerk. Primary election day is June 4.
