In case you've missed the obsessive Facebooking, the throttled Twitter feeds or (God forbid!) SFR's comprehensive election coverage, here's what you need to know to vote today.
- When are the polls open? In New Mexico, polls are open from 7 am-7 pm. As long as you're in line by 7 pm, you should be fine (but we don't recommend cutting it that close).
- Where do I vote? Click here and scroll down to use SFR's interactive map to find your polling place. If you're not sure which precinct you're registered in, check your voting status at voterview.state.nm.us
- How do I get there? Generally, many polling locations offer free parking on election day. The City of Santa Fe is also offering free bus service today.
- Who should I vote for? Click here for SFR's election picks, including recommendations for state and county bond questions and amendments to the state constitution.
- What's changed since the last time I voted? First, you can no longer vote a straight-party ticket. New Mexicans used to be able to check a single box for all of their votes to go to Republican candidates or Democratic ones; that's no longer possible. That means it's super-important to vote in every race. Again, click here to brush up on the local candidates, judges and bond issues. Also, NM Secretary of State Dianna Duran has prohibited distribution of the League of Women Voters' nonpartisan voter guide in polling areas—so if you want to brush up on the candidates, do it before you get there.
- Do I have to show my photo ID? Only if it's your first time voting in New Mexico AND you registered by mail, without showing an ID, instead of in person. Everyone else can vote by either showing ID or simply stating their name, registration address and year of birth.
- What are my rights? You have a right to vote free of coercion and intimidation—meaning that, when you're at your polling place, no one can harass or intimidate you, or tell you who to vote for.
- What if I experience harassment, coercion or other inappropriate behavior? Call Common Cause's hotline: 1-866-OUR-VOTE (1-866-687-8683) // Spanish hotline: 1-888-VE-Y-VOTA (1-888-839-8682)