Molly Swank Executive Director at Common Cause New Mexico | Official website
Molly Swank Executive Director at Common Cause New Mexico | Official website
Common Cause New Mexico has issued an advisory to address a surge in questions related to voting procedures amidst an unprecedented number of absentee ballots and new polling protocols. To assist voters, Common Cause is collaborating with the ACLU of New Mexico to operate a non-partisan hotline. Voters can call 1-866-OUR-VOTE or, for Spanish speakers, 1-888-VE-Y-VOTA for assistance.
Absentee Voting:
Voters can request absentee ballot applications online or by returning mailed applications to their County Clerk by October 20. Instructions for completing and returning ballots emphasize following directions precisely and ensuring all required information is provided.
Ballots can be returned by mail (recommended by October 27) or in person at designated locations. Specific provisions are outlined for counties like Bernalillo, where drive-by stations will be available on November 3.
If issues arise such as not receiving a ballot, errors on the ballot, or the need for a replacement, voters should contact their County Clerk promptly. Mechanisms are in place to ensure votes are counted correctly even if corrections are needed post-deadline.
Early and Election Day Voting:
Photo ID is generally not required except under specific conditions. Voters can find polling places online and early voting is available from October 6 through October 31 at various locations.
Safety measures include protective gear for poll workers and regular sanitization of equipment. Masks are encouraged but not mandatory.
Registration:
While the online voter registration deadline has passed, in-person registration remains open at early voting sites until October 31. Same-day registration and voting are possible during this period but not on Election Day itself.
Polling Place Procedures:
Voters encountering issues at polling places must be given provisional ballots which will be counted after verification within ten days. The NM Election Code protects against electioneering and voter intimidation within 100 feet of polling places; violations should be reported immediately using the Election Protection hotline.
Poll challengers may question voters' eligibility but must follow specific protocols overseen by precinct officials. Any challenges should also be reported via the voter hotline.
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