The state Democratic Party says Barack Obama's campaign will open 16 offices around the state Saturday.

That brings the total number of offices the Democratic presidential nominee has in New Mexico to 17.

"There is unprecedented excitement this election season, and you can see it in the number of offices opening throughout the state," said state Democratic Chairman Brian Colon. "New Mexico, we are not only a crucial state for the presidential campaign, but with competitive Senate and congressional races, we are the state to watch."

Republican presidential contender John McCain has three Albuquerque offices and another in Las Cruces. State Republican Party spokesman Scott Darnell says two more are planned for Roswell and Farmington.