There are two big problems w/ Democrats’ early primary push

New Mexico Democrats have successfully pushed their national party to move the New Mexico Democratic presidential primary vote forward to February 15 from its current June slot. As has been discussed for many years, this will give the Land of Enchantment a greater say in Democratic presidential primaries. Generally speaking that is not a problem although there is no indication that the Republicans will be able to do the same. Also, the Legislature is in session in New Mexico on February 15 which means no campaigning, no fundraising, and basically no way that either party’s legislative candidates will want that kind of date shift for their races.

This means two primaries: one for Democratic Party presidential candidates in February and the rest of the candidates for both parties in June. Who pays the $15 million for the early primary? It shouldn’t be New Mexico taxpayers. 

Also, New Mexico JUST had its first ever “semi-open” primary meaning that independents could participate and essentially choose which party to vote for on primary day. In fact, New Mexico hasn’t even had a primary like this in a presidential election year. If Democrats move their primary and Republicans don’t how would that work for the primaries? Moving the primary would seemingly eliminate the opportunity for anyone but registered Democrats to vote in the presidential primaries. After all, an independent could, in theory, vote in the Democrats’ presidential primary in February and then again in June in the Republican primary for president (and other offices).

Needless to say, there are some major questions regarding shifting the primary date that haven’t been discussed. Will Democrats simply ram this through in the upcoming session or will we have an honest discussion about these serious challenges?