As used in the Election Code [N.M. Stat. Ann. Chapter 1], “election returns” means the certificate of the precinct board [election board] showing the total number of votes cast for each candidate, or for or against each proposed constitutional amendment or other question, and may include statements of canvass, signature rosters, poll books, tally books, machine printed returns and, in any canvass of returns for county candidates, the original certificates of registration in the possession of the county clerk, together with the copies of certificates of registration in the office of the county clerk.