N.M. Now Getting Democratic Presidential Candidate Interest

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.(AP) – Democratic presidential candidates and voters are now taking a new look at New Mexico ahead of its Democratic presidential caucus on February 5th.

The renewed interest comes after the withdrawal of Governor Richardson from the race last week. New York Senator Hillary Clinton and Illinois Senator Barack Obama are opening up offices in the state.

And the number of voters requesting absentee ballots for the caucus tripled Monday, four days after Richardson’s exit from the race.

Clinton spokeswoman Kathleen Strand says the former first lady plans a visit to New Mexico ahead of the caucus.

She says the campaign will open an Albuquerque office within days. An Obama spokeswoman says his campaign opened an office in Albuquerque the day before Richardson’s announcement and plans to open offices in Las Cruces and Santa Fe soon.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)