As a DTS (“Independent”) voter, you can vote in the primary without changing parties.
The 2026 primary election allows political parties to determine which candidates will run in November’s general election.
New Mexico’s new semi-open primary system lets decline-to-state (DTS) voters participate in primary elections without changing their independent status.
How It Works
If you are a DTS voter in Sandoval County, you now have real power in primaries without changing your registration.
You don’t have to join a party to have a say in who wins the nomination. Go to the polls and simply request whichever major party’s ballot you want and cast your vote. Your voter registration stays the same: you remain “Decline to State.”
Early voting starts May 5. Don’t wait!
DTS? Why you should request a Democratic ballot