Voters in Albuquerque, New Mexico, are heading back to the polls this Tuesday for a runoff election between Mayor Tim Keller and former sheriff Darren White. On election day, November 5, Keller secured 36% of the votes, while White received 31%, which necessitated this runoff since no candidate surpassed the 50% threshold.
The polls in Albuquerque will close at 7 p.m. Mountain Time, and the winner will take on the challenges faced by New Mexico’s largest city, including crime, homelessness, and economic issues, for the next four years. Although the race is officially nonpartisan, it’s noteworthy that Keller is a Democrat and White identifies as a Republican.
Both candidates have prioritized public safety and housing in their campaigns, as the city grapples with rising violent crime and a homelessness crisis, particularly in some of its more affluent areas. Keller has been mayor since 2017 and previously served as a state senator and auditor. White, on the other hand, is currently a programming manager at a local radio station and has experience as a public safety officer, having previously run for Congress in 2008 but lost.
Keller is seeking re-election, claiming that Albuquerque requires strong leadership, especially to counteract the policies of former President Donald Trump. He previously issued an executive order reinforcing the city’s commitment to being welcoming to immigrants, seeking to protect the rights and safety of these communities amid nationwide immigration crackdowns.
Keller’s campaign emphasizes his past successes in addressing local challenges, outlining his efforts in crime reduction, homelessness solutions, and improving public safety infrastructure. He’s also advocating for reforms in the city’s emergency response system, investments in neighborhoods, and sustainability initiatives, including a pledge for renewable energy by 2025.
In contrast, White has highlighted his background in law enforcement, describing himself as a U.S. Army veteran with extensive experience, having served as Chief of the New Mexico State Police and Sheriff of Bernalillo County. His campaign focuses on restoring safety through increased support for police, addressing the homelessness crisis, and improving government efficiency.
White’s promises include cleaning up homeless camps, repealing what he calls Keller’s ineffective sanctuary policies, and restoring security in public spaces, aiming to attract families and businesses back to Albuquerque. He claims a proven track record in crime fighting and community protection.
As both candidates emerged from a competitive field of seven during the initial election, their rivalry reflects wider political dynamics at play across the country, from Seattle to New York City. Looking to 2025, some Democrats feel optimistic following recent gubernatorial wins, aiming to leverage these victories against the backdrop of Trump’s presidency as they approach next year’s pivotal midterm elections.
