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Bill

SB 16

NON-MAJOR PARTY VOTERS IN PRIMARY ELECTIONS

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kathleen Cates and 4 co-sponsors

New Mexico allows non-major party voters to participate in primary elections, expanding voting access beyond registered Democrats and Republicans.

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Bill Summary · SB 16

Legislative bill overview

SB 16 allows non-major party voters (those registered as Independent, Libertarian, Green, or other non-Democratic/Republican parties) to participate in primary elections in New Mexico. Previously, primary elections were restricted to registered members of the Democratic and Republican parties. The bill grants these voters access to at least one party's primary ballot, expanding electoral participation beyond the two-party system.

Why is this important

Approximately 20-25% of New Mexico voters are registered with non-major parties, yet were entirely excluded from the primary election process—where candidates are often effectively decided. This exclusion meant millions of voters had no voice in selecting nominees, even though they participate in general elections. The change could increase voter engagement and give non-major party voters meaningful influence in the candidate selection process.

Potential points of contention

  • Party autonomy concerns: Major parties may argue they have the right to control their own primary processes and determine membership eligibility, viewing this as government overreach into private party affairs
  • Ballot complexity and voter confusion: Allowing non-party members access to primaries could complicate ballot design and voter instructions, particularly around crossover voting rules and whether voters can participate in multiple primaries
  • Cost and administrative burden: Election officials will need new procedures to verify voter eligibility and manage participation rules, potentially increasing costs and implementation complexity

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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