Be a Voter This Year

With the November elections approaching, it is crucial for rural electric cooperative members around New Mexico to participate in local, state, and federal elections. These elections give us the chance to elect leaders who support energy policies that help deliver safe, reliable, and affordable electricity. Specifically, we can vote for officials who understand and prioritize the needs of New Mexico’s rural electric cooperatives and communities, as well as advocate for our interests in policy discussions.

The New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperatives is closely monitoring federal and state legislatures and several interim committees that can impact our electric cooperatives and their members. These committees include: economic and rural development and policy; legislative health and human services; New Mexico finance authority oversight; revenue stabilization and tax policy; science, technology, and telecommunications; transportation infrastructure revenue subcommittee; and water and natural resources.

We are actively engaging in discussions with legislators and other stakeholders regarding our cooperative interests. As not-for-profits, we are concerned about any policy that could negatively impact you, our rural electric cooperative members.

We want to support policies that help keep rates low, maintain reliability, promote our rural way of life, and consider our unique challenges. We are committed to advocating on your behalf to ensure your concerns are heard in your local communities, our state capital, and Washington, D.C.

Additionally, we will continue our advocacy efforts to ensure legislation and regulations do not undermine your rights as members and owners of your cooperatives. This November, you have a significant opportunity to vote for officials who understand the needs of rural electric cooperatives and will champion our interests at the New Mexico Capitol.

NMREC works closely with the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association and attends advocacy forums such as the 2024 NRECA Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. There, we engaged with members of Congress and administration officials to discuss issues that affect our mission. Federal agencies, such as the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency, set rules that cooperatives are required to follow. Shifts in Congress or changes in the presidential administration can affect regulatory priorities, influencing compliance costs and the viability of new projects.

Federal elections are critical for shaping Congress and deciding the presidency, both of which significantly impact energy policies and regulations affecting electric cooperatives. Federal legislators set the national energy policy, including support for renewable energy, infrastructure funding, and carbon emission regulations. The outcome of these upcoming elections will influence these policies and how rural electric cooperatives and communities operate.

State elections are equally significant, as they affect policies and regulations at a local level. In New Mexico, the Public Regulation Commission determines the framework for energy production and distribution, including incentives for renewable energy and—in some cases—operational regulations for our cooperatives. State decisions can greatly affect how cooperatives adopt new technologies and manage resources.

Funding for rural infrastructure and development is also crucial. Electing officials who recognize the challenges faced by rural cooperatives can lead to policies that improve local infrastructure and service reliability.

Policies on rural development, economic growth, and local support can significantly affect the communities served by cooperatives, which in turn impacts our sustainability. Electing representatives who focus on rural issues can drive economic development and enhance the quality of life.

Electricity plays a vital role in our rural communities, and voting gives members a voice in decisions that affect their daily lives and the future of their cooperatives. Voting ensures utility rates, infrastructure, and energy policies align with the needs and priorities of all of our members.

By voting for candidates who champion cooperative values such as community focus, local control, and sustainability, members help shape a political agenda that supports their cooperative’s mission and goals. Voting also holds elected officials accountable, ensuring they remain responsive to the needs of their constituents.

With respected voices in your local communities, our state capitol, and Washington, D.C., your voting participation enhances our chances of seating leaders who understand and support the unique challenges we face in rural New Mexico.

Your vote has the power to influence decisions that affect your community’s future.

Voting is not just a fundamental right—it is a powerful way to ensure your interests are represented at all levels of government. Now is the perfect time to check your voter registration status and encourage others to register as well.

As the election approaches, it is essential for members to understand the stakes, engage in the electoral process, and support candidates and policies that align with your cooperative’s mission and community values. Your voice as a co-op member is powerful, and it starts with your vote.