The Democratic senator thanked New Mexico voters shortly after polls closed, with just over 5% of votes reported and 69% supporting his reelection.

Julia Goldberg, Source New Mexico

U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Luján declared victory in his reelection campaign Tuesday evening, shortly after polls closed across New Mexico, according to Source New Mexico.

Luján, a Democrat, issued a statement thanking voters while early unofficial returns showed him receiving 69% of the vote against Republican challenger Larry Marker.

Just over 5% of votes had been reported by the New Mexico secretary of state's office at the time of the announcement.

“Thank you, New Mexico,” Luján said. “I am deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in me to continue serving all New Mexicans in the U.S. Senate. Representing the state that raised me is the honor of my life, and I will keep working every day to earn your trust.”

Luján said his conversations with residents throughout the campaign would guide his work in Washington.

“Throughout this campaign, I traveled across our state, visiting communities big and small in every corner,” he said. “At rallies and around kitchen tables, New Mexicans shared their hopes, their frustrations, and the challenges keeping them up at night. Those conversations will guide the work ahead.”

The early returns did not establish a final election outcome.

This article was originally reported by Julia Goldberg of Source New Mexico and is republished by Organ Mountain News as part of its Election Night coverage.