7 p.m. Deadline Set as Bernalillo Voters Cite Crime, Cost of Living

Albuquerque, N.M. County officials set a 7 p.m. deadline for polls to close on Election Day. Residents who were already in line at that hour retained the right to cast a ballot.

Voters spoke to reporters about the specific issues driving them to the polls. Nathan Portillo cited crime and affordability as daily concerns for New Mexicans. He described the election as a chance to effect change within the state.

"I think this is a very, very important election. I think there’s a lot going on within the state of New Mexico that hopefully we can change," Portillo said.

Cherie Howell, 22, said she voted to exercise her civic rights. She identified safety and education as the areas most in need of improvement for young people in the state.

"I wanted to practice my right of like being able to vote. And I do care about New Mexico. I mean, this is my hometown where I was born and raised," Howell said.

Lewis Lamar said his ballot choice reflected concerns about the national direction and his children's future. He urged other residents to participate regardless of their political affiliation.