CIBOLA COUNTY – Voters in Cibola County went to the polls June 4 to cast their ballots in the New Mexico Primary Election.
Due to the press deadline at noon on Tuesday, the Cibola Citizen is unable to provide the election outcomes at this time. Check next week’s edition for full results and the Cibola Citizen Facebook page for more accurate and updated information.
Several races were uncontested in the primary. With no challenger, these candidates secured their victory and will win their seats.
For contested races, voters had to choose which candidate they wanted to represent their political party. Two of Cibola’s County Commission races were crowded. But after the primary, the field has been narrowed.
Uncontested Races
In several races, candidates are running unopposed and are set to advance to the general election. These include: State Representative District 69:
Harry Garcia (D) is also running unopposed in the Democratic primary. Garcia, who first took office in 2016, has focused on infrastructure and community development.
Cibola County Clerk:
Natalie A. Grine (D) will advance unchallenged. Grine, currently serving as the deputy clerk, is poised to continue the office’s efforts in maintaining the integrity of Cibola County's elections and public records.
Cibola County Commissioner District 5: Georgia A. Routzen Sanchez (D) stands as the sole candidate in her district. Routzen Sanchez is well-known for her involvement with the Democratic Women of Cibola and her advocacy on various community issues.
District Attorney 13th Judicial District: Barbara A. Romo (D) runs unopposed and will advance to the general election. Romo is known for her dedication to justice and her experience in legal proceedings within the 13th Judicial District.
These candidates will proceed to the November general election without primary opposition.
Contested Races State Senator District 30
This race has two Democratic candidates vying for the nomination: Angel M. Charley (D), a community leader and advocate for social justice and indigenous rights. Charley’s campaign focuses on addressing systemic inequalities and improving education and healthcare.
Clemente Sanchez (D), a former state senator seeking to reclaim his seat. Sanchez has a record of working on economic development and legislative reforms aimed at benefiting rural communities.
This primary contest will determine which candidate represents the Democratic Party in the general election. Without a Republican opponent, the winner of this race will secure the seat.
State Representative District 6
In the election for State Representative District 6, the winner of the Democratic Primary will challenge the sole Republican candidate in November.
Eliseo Lee Alcon (D) is running for a ninth term in the House of Representatives. Alcon has been a steadfast representative for District 6 since 2009, known for his advocacy on issues such as healthcare and veteran’s rights.
Priscilla Benally (D), a community advocate with a focus on education and health services.
Daniel J. Torrez (D), a current Cibola County Commissioner and former chairman of the commission. Torrez has been instrumental in local governance and economic initiatives.
Paul L. Spencer (REP), a Republican candidate, will automatically advance to the general election as he had no candidate in the primary. Spencer is a local businessman emphasizing fiscal responsibility and community development.
County Treasurer The race for County Treasurer is highly competitive with three Democratic candidates: Joanne Martinez (D), an experienced financial administrator from Homestake Mining Company. Martinez has a background in finance and community service.
Johnny A. Pino (D), currently serving as the deputy treasurer, bringing direct experience in the treasurer’s office.
Wendy Michelle Self (D), the county's Procurement Manager, is known for her expertise in procurement and financial management.
County Commissioner District 2
The District 2 race features a competitive Democratic primary: Ray D. Carpenter (D), an established community leader and a former member of the Grants City Council.
Ruben Sandoval (D), a prominent local figure with deep roots in the community.
On the Republican side, Fred E. Rodarte (REP), a current Grants City Councilman, is unopposed and will move forward to the general election.
County Commissioner District 4
District 4 sees a crowded contest among both Democrats and Republicans: Charles A. Lundstrom (D), a longtime community member with a background in local governance.
Michael W. Lewis (D), a local advocate known for his work with community organizations.
On the Republican side, the candidates are: Adelaida Grace Yarborough (REP), an active community member with connections to local economic development.
Harry L. Hall (REP), a business owner and former candidate for county sheriff.
Joseph Tanner Windhorst (REP), the son of the incumbent Commissioner Robert Windhorst, bringing a legacy of public service.
November 5
The results of Tuesday’s primary election will set the stage for the November general election, where the nominees will campaign for their respective offices. As the polls close and the votes are tallied, the newspaper will update readers with the outcomes of these races as soon as the official results are available.
Cibola’s citizens will go to the polls on November 5 to cast the deciding ballots in the General Election.