There’s a lot on the line when you walk into a polling place…
In New Mexico, we don’t just vote for politicians — we vote for family. For community. For traditions, respect, and care that bind us and the future we’re building together.
Local elections decide who runs your city council, your school board, your county commission, the people who make the daily decisions that shape our lives. These aren’t distant bureaucrats. They’re our neighbors. And they answer to us, if we show up.
Speaking of which, below are pro tips and resources to help you prepare for the upcoming election!
Information on early voting, absentee voting, election day
There are a few ways to vote:
- Early voting is when you show up in person to vote
- Absentee voting is when you receive your ballot by mail (you can send it back by mail or drop off at any voting location)
- Election Day voting takes place in person as well
Expanded early voting takes place from October 18 to November 1. Hours are Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Election Day voting is Tuesday, November 4, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at all 20 locations Full information on locations and voting: Election Information – Doña Ana County | Elections | Bernalillo County Clerk | Regular Local Election 2025 | Santa Fe County | Bureau of Elections – Sandoval County | list of all 33 county clerk websites: County Clerk Information – New Mexico Secretary of State
Find your sample ballot
An easy way to prepare for an election is by finding a sample ballot based on your address/precinct. You can do that by visiting www.NMVote.org (this is the Secretary of State’s website), entering your info, and looking for “My Sample Ballot” on the left hand menu.
If you’ve voted before, this should look familiar because it’s the same format every time.
Pro tip: you will have different options for smaller races based on your location – download/save or print a copy, and as you do your research you can mark off the choices you want to select. Then, all you’ll need to do is bring it with you and replicate the answers on election day.
Voting & Local News Resources
Make sure to look for a variety of sources – including non-partisan organizations like Ballotpedia, FactCheck.org, and Pew Research – as well as news organizations that have opposing perspectives. There’s also an Albuquerque Public Library quick reference guide on spotting fake news for cases where you’re unsure about the source you’re reading or viewing.
For trustworthy local news coverage of elections and candidates, check out our list of 50+ independent local newsrooms across the state
General election information:
League of Women Voters of Central NM
When you vote locally, you’re not just casting a ballot, you’re claiming your seat at the table. You’re saying your voice matters in who gets to fix potholes, fund after-school programs, or protect our cultural heritage. You’re saying that fairness, responsibility, and resilience aren’t just values — they’re the foundation of the life you want for your family.
🗳️ Don’t wait for someone else to fix it. Make a plan to vote. Show up. Build a New Mexico that works for all of us.