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New Mexico Democrats To Vet Candidates At Weekend Convention

Five Democratic candidates for governor will test their support among party activists this weekend to determine who lands the top spot on the ballot in the June 3 primary election race.

The pre-primary nominating convention on Saturday at Laguna Pueblo can serve as an early proving ground for candidates. However, critics say it diverts time and money from the goal of winning the primary and defeating Republican Gov. Susana Martinez in the general election.

Candidates need at least 20 percent of convention delegate votes to earn an automatic place on the ballot. And ballot order is based on their showing, with the top finisher listed first.

Candidates who miss the 20 percent threshold can still get on the ballot by submitting extra nominating petition signatures to the secretary of state.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.