It seems like it is once again time to take a look at who, exactly, is running for the four open seats (three House and one Senate) here in New Mexico. The last update was more than a month ago! Some important dates: the filing deadline is February 12. The pre-primary nominating conventions are March 15. The primaries are on June 3.
On to the races!
Senate Race
Democrats
Tom Udall is the odds-on favorite to win. Lehrman will have trouble getting his way onto the primary ballot.
Republicans
- Steve Pearce
- Heather Wilson
These two candidates will be fighting it out. Both are currently in the House and both are experience campaigners. And, perhaps best for Democrats, neither are above a little bit of dirty politics — even in the primary.
For the Congressional races, go below the fold.
First Congressional District
Democrats
Heinrich is the current favorite in this race. He has the momentum, the endorsements and — this is important — his campaign seems to have a plan. Lujan-Grisham has been largely our of the public eye. And Pidcock… well, I really don’t know anything about him.
Republicans
- Darren White
- Joe Carraro
The two were involved in a PR disaster after their secret debate this weekend. White is the favorite to win, and has the backing of the Republicans in DC. But Carraro is outspoken and will make things interesting, if not competitive.
Second Congressional District
Democrats
Harry Teague has the support of the oil and gas industry, which is a big boost in Southern New Mexico. He’s a conservative Democrat, and will surely have a big bundle of cash. McCamley will also have a good amount of cash to campaign in Southern New Mexico, and he has been on the campaign trail for a while. He is going out to communities and speaking to people. The Kissling and McKinnon seem to be fringe candidates at this point.
Republicans
- Bob Cornelius
- C Earl Greer
- Aubrey Dunn, Jr
- Ed Tinsley
- Monty Newman
- Greg Sowards
- Terry Marquardt
Yes, seven candidates for the Republicans. I am not even going to attempt to delve into who is the favorite here… but my personal favorite is Greg Sowards, but only because of his campaign slogan.
Third Congressional District
Democrats
Lujan looks to be the favorite here. He is hispanic and his father, the Speaker of the House, has northern New Mexico support. But Wiviott has the cash, and has pledged to spend a big chunk of his own money on the campaign. Benny Shendo, Jr is a Native American, and they comprise 19 percent of the district. Very interesting.
Republicans
- Marco E. Gonzales
- Dan East
It doesn’t matter which one wins in June. This seat will stay Democratic.