What are the rules for ballot access?

In New Mexico, ballot access is determined by a variety of different rules and regulations. A candidate must first submit a written declaration of candidacy, as well as official federal or state nomination documents, depending on the office they are running for. The candidate must also collect a certain number of valid voter signatures, also known as petititions, depending on the amount of registered voters in the district. In order to be listed on the general election ballot, a candidate must either be nominated by a recognized political party or be declared as a “write-in” candidate. Nominated candidates must meet the requirements established by the party to be listed on the ballot. Write-in candidates must receive at least one-tenth of the votes cast by eligible voters, and in some cases, a specific certified number of votes, in order to appear on the general election ballot as well. In addition, New Mexico has adopted the Qualified Political Party Act, which requires that certain political parties must meet certain statutory requirements in order to be recognized by the Secretary of State so that their candidates may appear on the ballot. Finally, certain rules and regulations apply in local elections in New Mexico. Depending on the locality, candidates must either file a Declaration of Candidacy with the local election board or submit their candidacy documents to other nominating bodies in order to get on the ballot. In some cases, no petitions are necessary at all.

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What are the rules for ballot access?

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