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Secretary of state: Amanda López Askin

Candidate Q&A

Amanda López Askin

Name: Amanda López Askin

Political Party: Democract

Age: 52

Education: Ph.D.

Occupation: Doña Ana County

City of Residence: Las Cruces

Campaign Website: 

How has your background prepared you to serve as New Mexico’s top election official?

I serve as Doña Ana County Clerk, running elections in our borderlands and 2nd most populous county and helping move NM to #1. I’ve expanded access, strengthened security, and fought misinformation in real time. I know how elections actually run and how to protect them while serving every voter.

If elected, would you comply with the federal Department of Justice’s request for the state to share personal information (including names, dates of birth and addresses) about all registered state voters? 

I will follow the law but I will not turn over sensitive voter data without clear legal authority and strong privacy protections. New Mexicans’ personal data isn’t political leverage. My job is to protect voters and uphold the Constitution, not enable overreach.

Would you support or oppose New Mexico using ranked choice voting in statewide elections? 

I'm in favor of RCV, but only if implemented thoughtfully, with voter education and local input first. Any change to our system should increase participation and trust—not confusion. I support thoughtful, transparent evaluation before statewide adoption and will look to voters for feedback and support.

What additional steps, if any, do you believe should be taken to make it easier for New Mexico residents to vote? 

We are leading but can do more: expand voter education and in rural and Tribal access and modernize systems. My focus is: meet voters where they are and remove barriers so every eligible New Mexican can participate, they care about our state and that should be reflected in turnout.

Do you believe voter fraud is an issue in New Mexico elections? What steps, if any, do you believe should be taken to ensure the integrity of state elections? 

Voter fraud is not an issue. Our systems work and work well. We audit, verify, and train at every level. The real threat is misinformation and those who purposely mislead. I’ll continue strengthening safeguards and making sure voters have confidence in results grounded in facts, not fear.

Do you support or oppose New Mexico’s law allowing independent voters (or those declining to state a party affiliation) to vote in primary elections without having to change their affiliation? 

I support independent voters participating in primaries. More participation strengthens our democracy and our state. Young people are registering as unaffiliated in record numbers. We should be making it easier for eligible voters to have a voice, while ensuring the process remains fair and transparent.

Have you or your business, if you are a business owner, ever been the subject of any state or federal tax liens? 

Yes. In 2007 - 21 years ago - during a personal transition year, a lien was placed on my home briefly for approximately $300 due in state taxes. I resolved it immediately.

Have you ever been arrested for, charged with, or convicted of drunken driving, any misdemeanor or any felony in New Mexico or any other state? If so, explain. 

No.

Have you ever been involved in a personal or business bankruptcy proceeding? 

No.