UNM Democrats and Republicans are compiling information and scheduling candidate visits to educate students about the gubernatorial race in November.
Brian Eagan, president of the College Democrats, said his organization will be registering voters during the next few months and getting students acquainted with the candidates and their platforms.
"We don't formally endorse candidates, but we will make all of the issues known and pass out fliers telling students where all of the candidates stand on the important topics," Eagan said.
He said his organization will also sponsor a campus candidate forum and debate in February.
"We are still working out the final details, but this forum will allow students to get access to the people who will run this state for the next four years," Eagan said. "That's important for all UNM students."
Sarah Hunt, chairwoman of the College Republicans, said the student organization has already had three of the five announced Republican candidates on campus and the others have been invited to speak.
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"Larry Ahrens will be here on February 13, and we invite all students to hear him speak and talk about why he wants to be the next governor," Hunt said.
Hunt says it is important for students to get to know the candidates so they can share ideas with them on various issues.
"When the candidates hear what is important to students of UNM, they can take that back to the office and make sure that those ideas and concerns are addressed," Hunt said.
She said the College Republicans office will be available for students who want to register to vote or want to pick up a flier about the candidates.
Both campus political leaders urged early participation and awareness.
"I strongly encourage all of UNM to become involved in this governor's race," Hunt said. "There are a lot of issues at hand and we need them to be heard."
Eagan echoed Hunt's comments.
"It's important for students to know that the next governor will appoint members of the board of regents here at UNM," he said. "They have the power to decide whether or not to raise tuition and that's very important."
