Campaign Finance

When do I register my Candidate Campaign Committee

• A Candidate Campaign Committee will be registered at the time the Candidate Files on January 6, 2026.

What is a Campaign Committee?

• Any combination of two or more persons acting jointly for the principal purpose of supporting or opposing the election of a candidate or the adoption or defeat of one or more ballot questions.

When do I register a Non-Candidate Campaign Committee?

• Within seven (7) days of formation, but in no case later than the date on which a committee initiates the dissemination of campaign advertisement, each committee shall file a Campaign Committee form with the City Clerk. 

I haven't filed as a Candidate, can I accept donations?

• Yes, any contribution received or expenditure made by or on behalf of an individual prior to the filing of a declaration of candidacy, or by or on behalf of a campaign committee at any time must be reported.

My neighbor donated graphic design services, how do I report this?

• The date goods or services are provided to a campaign shall be reported as the date received for in-kind contributions.  You will include in-kind under expenditures on the same day.

When do I file Campaign Reports?

• January 20, 2026, by 5:00 p.m.
• February 3, 2026, by 12:00 p.m.
• March 2, 2026, by 12:00 p.m.
• April 2, 2026, by 12:00 p.m. 

What happens if I file my report late?

• Late submissions are subject to a penalty of $10 per day for each regular working day after the deadline, up to $500.

Is there a limit to how much one person can contribute to my campaign?

• There are limits to the total contribution amount a candidate or campaign committee can receive from any one person, organization, entity, or campaign committee for an election.  These limits apply to all contribution categories, with the exception of loans made by a candidate to their own campaign and independent expenditures.
  • Citywide Races – $5,000: Mayor, Municipal Judge or Citywide Ballot Question(s)
  • Districted Races – $3,000: City Councilor

How do I close out my campaign?  

• In order to close out a campaign account the account must balance, and the bank account closed. Any remaining contributions given to a registered 501(c)(3) charity identified by the candidate or donated to another municipal candidate.  If you are closing your account, please submit the final report to the Clerk's office, Clerk@rrnm.gov.

I have more questions, where do I go?

• Please review the Candidate Campaign guide or contact the City Clerk's office for assistance.  You can email your questions to Clerk@rrnm.gov or call at (505) 891-5004.