Former meteorologist wins primary race for U.S. Senate seat

SANTA FE — Former television meteorologist Mark Ronchetti of Albuquerque won the three-way Republican primary race for an open U.S. Senate seat, based on unofficial results.

Ronchetti received more than 60% of the votes cast by GOP voters, easily outpacing ex-college law professor Gavin Clarkson of Las Cruces and anti-abortion advocate Elisa Martinez of Albuquerque.

He will face off in the November general election against Democrat Ben Ray Luján and Libertarian candidate Bob Walsh, both of whom were unopposed in Tuesday’s primary election.

Luján currently represents New Mexico’s northern 3rd Congressional District, but decided to forego a reelection bid in order to run for the U.S. Senate seat.

Journal pollster Brian Sanderoff said Ronchetti’s name recognition due to his years on television was a major factor in his win.