On January 29, two New Mexico legislators introduced a complete re-write of the Election Code. Among many other provisions, HB 407 lowers the number of signatures for independent candidates. The existing law requires a petition of 3% of the last gubernatorial vote, which is the most severe independent presidential requirement in the nation.

The bill changes the independent presidential petition to one-half of 1% of the last gubernatorial vote, and the independent petition for other statewide office, and legislature, and county office, to 2% of the last gubernatorial vote. Oddly enough, though, for U.S. House, the requirement would continue to be 3%.

The authors are Senator Daniel Ivey-Soto (D-Albuquerque) and Representative Linda Trujillo (D-Santa Fe). It is believed that this bill has the support of the Secretary of State. Thanks to Rick Lass for the news about the bill.