Will you be voting in New Mexico this election season? Don’t know where to go or where to start? Look no further!
As a mother, I can’t help but think about the future and how we build a better world for our children. One of the steps every mother can take is getting out to vote! No matter what candidate you support or which party you side with, make your voice heard.
» » » » » » » » » RELATED READ: Five Reasons Why Every Mom Should Vote « « « « « « « « « «
I voted for the first time in New Mexico in 2020.
I took advantage of the early voting window and found a location close to my house on a day off from work when the kids were in school. It was calm and quiet. There were other people, but it wasn’t too busy. There were several volunteers helping me with each step. Everyone was friendly and smiling. And I got my sticker!
If you’ve never voted before or you’re new to town, it can feel overwhelming. Hopefully, this guide helps you feel more prepared!
Most important thing for moms to know: Albuquerque public schools will be CLOSED on election day, November 5th. This is because many schools serve as polling places.
Other important dates for voting in New Mexico
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8 | the deadline to register to vote and early voting begins
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22 | the deadline to request an absentee ballot
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2 | early voting window closes
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5 | Election day
Registration, Polling Places, & Absentee Voting
You can check your registration status by logging on to the New Mexico Secretary of State website. You can also use that same website to find polling locations.
Absentee voting in New Mexico is available for everyone. Mail your ballot in or bring it to any polling place on Election Day. Apply for an absentee ballot by filling out an application online or mailing it to the county clerk’s office. You can check the status of your application online.
Okay, so I’ve registered, I found a place to vote, and election day is here, what do I do?
On election day, the polls will be open from 7:00 am in the morning until 7:00 pm in the evening.
I missed the registration deadline! Now what?
You can still complete SAME DAY REGISTRATION at the county clerk’s office or at polling locations or some early voting locations and then vote THAT day!
For same day registration you will need:
- Identification: A valid New Mexico driver’s license or New Mexico identification card that was issued by the Motor Vehicle Division or by the Taxation and Revenue Department
- Proof of residency: this can be any document that contains an address in the county along with a photo ID card
- OR a valid student photo ID from an educational institution in New Mexico and a current fee statement containing the student’s address in the county
Can I bring my kids with me when I vote?
Yes! You are entitled to privacy when casting your vote. However, you can also bring your child along. In fact, exposing your child to the voting process encourages them to be informed and active citizens! It’s a great learning experience.
Here are some other fun FAQs for parents related to election day:
Other helpful resources:
New Mexico Election Guide 2024: Voter Registration, Polling Information (krqe.com)
Voter Information Portal (NMVote.org) | Maggie Toulouse Oliver – New Mexico Secretary of State
VOTE411 – more election resources and voting information
VOTE411 – voting information in Spanish
