Bernalillo County Clerk: Michelle Kavanaugh Candidate Q&A

Sep. 27—Bernalillo County Clerk: Michelle Kavanaugh

Political Party: Democratic

Age: 44

Family: Fiancé, Scott; 5 Children

Education: Associates of Arts, Central New Mexico Community College, Liberal Arts, University of New Mexico

Occupation: Deputy County Clerk, Bernalillo County

City of Residence: Albuquerque

Campaign Website

Relevant Experience

Current Deputy County Clerk, Bernalillo County. Former Field Representative for US Senator Tom Udall. 20+ years of community organizing around working families issues including affordable childcare, education, and wages.

Have you or your business, if you are a business owner, ever been the subject of any state or federal tax liens?

Have you ever been arrested for, charged with, or convicted of drunken driving, any misdemeanor or any felony in New Mexico or any other state? If so, explain.

Yes, dismissed.

Have you ever been involved in a personal or business bankruptcy proceeding?

What qualifies you to do the job of county clerk?

I currently serve as Deputy County Clerk. Have successfully administered several local and general elections, including during the height of the pandemic. Have successfully overseen the Recording & Filing division, presently the busiest customer service deparment in Bernalillo County.

How will you ensure that voters feel they can trust election results? How will you instill voter confidence?

I'll continue our practice of transparency and accountability. We will continue to be a trusted source of information and will be vigilant in combating mis- and dis-information about the election. Nothing we do is a secret.

What would you do to make the clerk's office more efficient?

Providing access to technology and ongoing training for permanent staff and poll officials. Researching industry trends and collaborating with comparable jurisdictions on best practices.

How can Bernalillo County improve voter access?

In addition to the 72 polling locations and two drop boxes we currently provide, I will ensure that (with community input) underserved and under-represented areas of the county are targeted with additional information and resources. And increased partnership with APS will ensure young adults are fully prepared and excited to cast their first vote.

Anything else you would like to add?

My decades of experience as an advocate for working families and in official roles in governmental offices, speaks to my dedication, passion, and commitment to my community. With a mix of administrative, collaborative, and leadership roles in public service and private industry, and my direct experience in the clerk's office, I will bring a unique perspective to the role.