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The Bernalillo County Democratic Pre-Primary Convention was nothing short of extraordinary and served as a powerful reminder of what grassroots democracy looks like when it is organized, welcoming, and energized.
From the moment doors opened, the building was alive. Campaigns filled the halls, tabling side by side and engaging directly with Democrats from across the county. Volunteers worked continuously to sign people in, help attendees identify their ward numbers, and ensure everyone felt confident navigating the process. That welcoming, well-run experience was made possible by thoughtful planning and execution, including the sharp visuals, clear signage, and seamless seating arrangements designed by our outstanding event lead, Andy Hamilton.
We began the day with strong and grounding remarks from DPBC and DPNM leadership before launching into what became one of our most ambitious accomplishments to date: successfully conducting 80 concurrent ward meetings under one roof. That scale is no small feat, and it speaks directly to the strength, capacity, and dedication of Bernalillo County Democrats.
The candidate program was equally impressive. Attendees heard from U.S. Senate candidates and were thrilled by a surprise video address from Ben Ray Luján, reminding us of the stakes of strong Democratic leadership at the federal level. Matt Dodson also gave his pitch for the Senate seat. Gabe Vasquez joined us in person, spoke with the convention, and stayed to chat with attendees well beyond his remarks.
We were honored to hear from Deb Haaland and Sam Bregman as candidates for governor, followed by Maggie Toulouse Oliver, who carved time out of a packed schedule to address us in her campaign for lieutenant governor.
The Secretary of State race featured a strong lineup with Clerk Amanda Lopez Askin, Clerk Katherine Clark, and former Sec. Sonya Smith. For State Land Commissioner, we heard from Matthew McQueen’s campaign, Juan De Jesus Sanchez, and Jonas Moya. We were joined by Alex Uballez, speaking on behalf of Court of Appeals candidate Kris Houghton, welcomed Joseph Maestas early in the day, and received a meaningful statement from the sister of Laura Montoya, Jeannie, who is a precinct chair right here in Bernalillo County. We rounded out the program with County Assessor Damian Lara as he seeks reelection.
This day would not have been possible without our leadership team and volunteers. Special thanks to Vice Chairs Moseley and Valdez, Secretary Garcia, Treasurer Harrison, Data Manager Karlyne Nordholm, VoteBuilder Team Lead Sharret Rose, Rules Chair Willie Orr, and Lane Findley for keeping everything running smoothly. We are also deeply grateful to Westside Democrats, UNM Democrats, and the LGBTQIA+ Caucus for showing up, pitching in, and strengthening the day with their presence.
With more than 300 participants, this was the largest DPBC event I have personally attended. From familiar faces to the many new ones I met for the first time, it was a true home run—and a reminder of how powerful we are when we show up together.
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