ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller is looking to secure an unprecedented third term as mayor. Democratic supporters gathered at the Arrive ABQ Hotel in downtown Albuquerque on Tuesday night to await the results of the election. Keller voted early over the weekend with his family, and told KRQE News 13 on Tuesday that he went into election day preparing to be in a runoff next month.
Keller spent the day visiting polling locations across Albuquerque, thanking people for voting, saying he felt being present throughout the city on Tuesday is important. KRQE News 13 mentioned that no mayor in Albuquerque’s history has won three consecutive terms. Keller said he’s running again because he needs more time on major projects like the Rail Trail, the Gateway Center, and implementing more technology throughout the city in policing.
Looking at this race by the numbers, Keller had the most money to work with as the only candidate who qualified for public financing, which drew criticism from his opponents. But he claimed this race has been five against one, with him playing defense against attack ads.
Crime and homelessness are voters’ top issues, and while critics argue Keller hasn’t done enough to fix those issues, he claimed that he needs more time. “We’ve seen real progress on some major issues. I know we have a long way to go and these are tough times, but that’s why we need strong, experienced leadership going forward,” said Keller.
Keller told KRQE News 13 on Tuesday morning that he expected to be in a runoff against a conservative opponent and feels that if it goes to a December vote, he’s confident voters will give him that third term.
