Mayor Keller, City and State, Team Up for Election Protection
Oct. 16, 2020
Today, Mayor Keller was joined by officials from the City and State to discuss plans to keep polling locations free from voter intimidation and suppression tactics as early voting takes place and especially on Election Day.
“Unfortunately, we have already seen issues arise across the country as we head into election season,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “But we know Albuquerque is different, and we plan to work closely with our partners to ensure that this election is carried out in safe, equitable way for everyone, no matter how you cast your vote.”
The Albuquerque Police Department will coordinate with other local law enforcement agencies to respond to any calls for service.
City Clerk Ethan Watson reminded the public that guns and deadly weapons of any kind are prohibited from polling locations that are located at schools or community centers. Wearing or displaying campaign materials for any particular candidate is prohibited at all locations. Masks are strongly encouraged and will be available at all 18 early voting locations and 70 Election Day Voting.
As misinformation may circulate before the election, the public is encouraged to rely on information about voting from reputable sources including the Secretary of State and the Bernalillo County Clerk.
“Voting is sacred, and every voter should be able to cast their ballots without fear of intimidation, but in other cities voter intimidation has become a problem. I know that as New Mexicans we respect each other and that those tactics won’t work here. I’m proud New Mexicans are getting out to vote in record numbers in early voting right here in our District. It shows that New Mexicans take their right to vote seriously and are showing up to the polls. We have a Mayor and City Government who take this seriously and the City of Albuquerque will have an all-hands-on-deck approach to protect Burqueños right to vote,” said Congresswoman Deb Haaland.
“New Mexican voters should be informed, and they should be confident that their elections are safe, secure, and free from intimidation” said Attorney General Balderas. “I am glad to partner with Mayor Keller and local governments and law enforcement across the State to ensure that the electoral process is conducted openly and securely; and my office will hold anyone accountable who interferes with any New Mexicans’ right to vote.”
"The General Election is right around the corner and though there's a lot of uncertainty in the world right now, voters in New Mexico should know they have multiple, easy ways to cast their ballot," said Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver. "Voters should make sure to only use trusted sources for election information and reach out to your county clerk or my Office with questions or concerns. Expanded early voting location open up in every county starting tomorrow so, no matter how you choose to vote this year, I encourage all eligible voters to get out there and make your voice heard!"
The City also reminded residents who may be organizing protests in the coming weeks that they can contact the Office of Equity and Inclusion for assistance in setting up traffic control for their demonstration, and receive safety recommendations related to the pandemic.
“We appreciate everyone plans to exercise their First Amendment rights in the coming weeks, and want to ensure that it is done in the safest manner possible for everyone involved. Organizers are encouraged to call our protest hotline so we can work together to connect them with resources and find out how the city can best support them,” said Michelle Melendez, Director of the Office of Equity and Inclusion.
The City’s protest line is: 505-269-5927.
To report suspected Voter Intimidation or Suppression, residents should call 866-OUR-VOTE.