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New Mexico's Embattled Secretary Of State Returns To Work

NM Secretary of State Dianna Duran
Former NM Sec. of State Dianna Duran
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NM Secretary of State Dianna Duran

New Mexico's embattled secretary of state has returned to work amid allegations that she funneled campaign contributions into personal bank accounts and withdrew money at casinos around the state.

Dianna Duran came to work Tuesday and planned to be in the office for most of the week, according to one of her top staffers.

The two-term Republican pleaded not guilty earlier this month to dozens of fraud, embezzlement and money laundering charges.

Despite calls for Duran to resign, her attorney has vowed to fight the charges.

Duran's office is responsible for enforcing New Mexico's election and campaign finance laws. Staffers say the current priority is determining by Oct. 1 the number of petition signatures candidates will have to file and finalizing a revamped candidate guide for the upcoming election season.

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