New Mexico hosts inaugural 2028 Matanza rally to anchor early primary
New Mexico held its first 'Fourth in the Nation Matanza Rally' in Albuquerque on October 24, 2026, marking its new status as the fourth Democratic presidential primary state in 2028. The event, hosted by Sen. Ben Ray Luján, drew over 1,500 attendees, including prospective candidates like Chris Van Hollen and Mark Kelly, to discuss economic and immigration issues with Latino voters. While the state aims to influence the national nomination, local leaders like Martin Heinrich and Michelle Lujan Grisham face questions about whether they will run for president or remain influential behind the scenes.