Kelly and Van Hollen to Attend Albuquerque Rally
The Democratic presidential hopefuls will join a matanza rally on October 24 to highlight New Mexico's new primary status.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Elections
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Democratic presidential candidates Mark Kelly and Chris Van Hollen will visit Albuquerque on October 24, 2026, for a matanza rally organized by Ben Ray Luján. The event celebrates the Democratic National Committee's August 2026 decision to designate New Mexico as an early primary state for the 2028 election.
Why it matters
The visit highlights New Mexico's growing national political influence following its selection as an early state, a choice driven by its diverse demographic makeup. Supporters hope this shift will ensure the voices of rural, urban, Hispanic, and Native American residents receive more attention from candidates.
The proposed 2028 presidential primary is scheduled for February 15, 2028, a significant shift from the state's current primary held on the first Tuesday in June. This change requires passage during the upcoming 2027 60-day legislative session.
The players
Mark Kelly
Mark Kelly is a Democratic presidential candidate and United States Senator from Arizona who previously served as a NASA astronaut.
Chris Van Hollen
Chris Van Hollen is a Democratic presidential candidate and United States Senator from Maryland with a long career in federal legislative service.
Ben Ray Luján
Ben Ray Luján is a United States Senator from New Mexico who is organizing the upcoming matanza rally.
Gregg Hull
Gregg Hull is an official who has expressed concerns regarding the fiscal implications of potential changes to the primary election schedule.
The details
The matanza rally serves as a strategic testing ground for candidates looking to engage early-state voters well before the formal election season. However, the state's plan faces hurdles, as Gregg Hull has indicated he may veto legislation that would establish two separate primary elections due to cost concerns.
Timeline
August 2026: DNC voted to include New Mexico in early calendar.
October 24, 2026: Matanza rally held in Albuquerque.
2027: New Mexico Legislature 60-day session.
February 15, 2028: Proposed New Mexico presidential primary election.
Political Context
Opponents of the proposed changes, including some state officials, argue that hosting two separate primary elections would create an unnecessary fiscal burden on the state budget. This pushback centers on the administrative costs required to align the state's schedule with the national party's early-state requirements.
If the proposed February 2028 primary date is approved, residents will see a shift in the primary election calendar that may alter when they participate in presidential candidate selection. Taxpayers should monitor the 2027 legislative session to see how potential costs for dual primary elections are addressed by state lawmakers.
The takeaway
The move to designate New Mexico as an early state reflects a national trend of re-evaluating the presidential nomination timeline to better represent diverse populations. Residents should track the 2027 legislative session, as the formal adoption of these election dates remains subject to state approval and funding debates.
Further reading
For more background on the upcoming contest, visit the Albuquerque Elections section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Abqjournal.
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