Bill > SM12

This Memorial requests the Secretary of State of New Mexico to study different types of "open primaries," which are election systems where voters do not have to declare a party affiliation to vote in a party's primary election, and to propose recommendations for implementing such a system in the state. The Memorial highlights concerns about low voter turnout, a high number of non-competitive elections, and a significant portion of voters, especially younger ones, choosing to be independent or unaffiliated with a major political party, suggesting that current primary systems may disenfranchise these voters and that open primaries could increase participation and strengthen democracy. The Secretary of State is directed to present these recommendations to the appropriate legislative committee by November 1, 2020.