New Democratic super PAC formed in NM

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Labor unions and a retiring Democratic legislative leader have provided about $393,000 to a newly formed political group planning to make independent expenditures to influence New Mexico campaigns, including races that will determine whether Democrats retain control of the Legislature.

A finance report filed by Patriot Majority - New Mexico PAC shows it collected $250,000 from the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees and $83,000 from retiring House Speaker Ben Lujan's political committee.

The PAC registered with the secretary of state last month and its president is Washington, D.C.-based Democratic strategist Craig Varoga. He runs a national super PAC called Patriot Majority that's active in U.S. Senate and congressional races.

Varoga said in a statement the New Mexico group will support state candidates in non-federal races.