Senate District 12
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ProgressNow New Mexico Votes Progressive Voters Guide
Welcome to the New Mexico Progressive Voters Guide! The Progressive Voters Guide compiles the information that allows you to make informed decisions about the races on your ballot, based on your values. Please share this guide with your friends and family!
Federal
Martin Heinrich is running for re-election to the US Senate. He has held the position since 2013, and serves as chairman of the Joint Economic Committee, chairman of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Subcommittee, and previously as chairman of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies subcommittee.
Previously, Heinrich represented New Mexico's 1st Congressional District from 2009-13 and also served as an Albuquerque City Councilor, and Council President, from 2004-08. He has also run his own public affairs firm, led a nonprofit focused on educating young people on the environment and science, served on the executive committee of the Sierra Club's Rio Grande Chapter, and was appointed by NM Governor Bill Richardson to be the state's Natural Resources Trustee.
Heinrich’s priorities include land conservation and protecting agriculture, ranching, and food systems, investing in infrastructure via rebuilding roads/bridges, expanding access to clean drinking water, and increasing high-speed internet access, protecting civil liberties and individual freedoms, expanding education, healthcare, and wellness programs, and leading efforts to grow jobs and the economy via renewable and clean energy.
His track record includes championing reproductive rights and healthcare – he advanced legislation protecting access to in vitro fertilization (IVF), contraception, and abortion, and co-sponsored Medicare-For-All legislation in 2017. He is a strong supporter of civil rights and was an original cosponsor of 2009 legislation to repeal the ban on gay marriage. Heinrich has advocated for and passed common sense gun safety laws, expanded health care access for veterans in both urban and rural areas, and led efforts to expand and invest in mental/behavioral services including specifically addressing the opioid/fentanyl public health crisis.
Heinrich is also well known for his work supporting clean/renewable energy jobs and protecting the environment and public lands. He co-sponsored the Green New Deal in 2019, which would establish net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and led efforts to establish Columbine-Hondo Wilderness in the Carson National Forest, the creation of the Rio Grande Del Norte and Organ Mountains Desert-Peaks National Monuments, creating the Sabinoso Wilderness, expanded public access to the Valles Caldera National Preserve, Passed the Great American Outdoors Act to address billions of dollars of deferred maintenance on public lands, and designating White Sands as a National Park.
Martin Heinrich is being challenged by Nella Domenici. Domenici is the daughter of former US Senator Pete Domenici, who served from 1973 to 2009. Previously, she worked as CFO for Bridgewater Associates, the world’s largest hedge fund, and has also worked for Citadel and Credit Suisse. Domenici’s stated priorities include increasing oil and gas extraction while reducing regulations, spending more on border security and law enforcement, and lowering taxes. Additionally, on the topic of reproductive health, while she has labeled herself as moderate via TV ads, Domenici has donated close to $20K to extreme anti-abortion candidates, including Yvette Herrell and Mark Ronchetti in New Mexico, Adam Laxalt in Nevada, and her former Bridgewater CEO Dave McCormick in Pennsylvania.
We highly recommend Martin Heinrich for US Senate based on his clear and consistent record of protecting civil and individual rights, investing in infrastructure, spurring sustainable economic growth and renewable/clean energy jobs, and championing public lands and the environment, which are essential to New Mexico’s heritage, traditions, and economy.
Martin Heinrich is running for re-election to the US Senate. He has held the position since 2013, and serves as chairman of the Joint Economic Committee, chairman of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Subcommittee, and previously as chairman of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies subcommittee.
Previously, Heinrich represented New Mexico's 1st Congressional District from 2009-13 and also served as an Albuquerque City Councilor, and Council President, from 2004-08. He has also run his own public affairs firm, led a nonprofit focused on educating young people on the environment and science, served on the executive committee of the Sierra Club's Rio Grande Chapter, and was appointed by NM Governor Bill Richardson to be the state's Natural Resources Trustee.
Heinrich’s priorities include land conservation and protecting agriculture, ranching, and food systems, investing in infrastructure via rebuilding roads/bridges, expanding access to clean drinking water, and increasing high-speed internet access, protecting civil liberties and individual freedoms, expanding education, healthcare, and wellness programs, and leading efforts to grow jobs and the economy via renewable and clean energy.
His track record includes championing reproductive rights and healthcare – he advanced legislation protecting access to in vitro fertilization (IVF), contraception, and abortion, and co-sponsored Medicare-For-All legislation in 2017. He is a strong supporter of civil rights and was an original cosponsor of 2009 legislation to repeal the ban on gay marriage. Heinrich has advocated for and passed common sense gun safety laws, expanded health care access for veterans in both urban and rural areas, and led efforts to expand and invest in mental/behavioral services including specifically addressing the opioid/fentanyl public health crisis.
Heinrich is also well known for his work supporting clean/renewable energy jobs and protecting the environment and public lands. He co-sponsored the Green New Deal in 2019, which would establish net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and led efforts to establish Columbine-Hondo Wilderness in the Carson National Forest, the creation of the Rio Grande Del Norte and Organ Mountains Desert-Peaks National Monuments, creating the Sabinoso Wilderness, expanded public access to the Valles Caldera National Preserve, Passed the Great American Outdoors Act to address billions of dollars of deferred maintenance on public lands, and designating White Sands as a National Park.
Martin Heinrich is being challenged by Nella Domenici. Domenici is the daughter of former US Senator Pete Domenici, who served from 1973 to 2009. Previously, she worked as CFO for Bridgewater Associates, the world’s largest hedge fund, and has also worked for Citadel and Credit Suisse. Domenici’s stated priorities include increasing oil and gas extraction while reducing regulations, spending more on border security and law enforcement, and lowering taxes. Additionally, on the topic of reproductive health, while she has labeled herself as moderate via TV ads, Domenici has donated close to $20K to extreme anti-abortion candidates, including Yvette Herrell and Mark Ronchetti in New Mexico, Adam Laxalt in Nevada, and her former Bridgewater CEO Dave McCormick in Pennsylvania.
We highly recommend Martin Heinrich for US Senate based on his clear and consistent record of protecting civil and individual rights, investing in infrastructure, spurring sustainable economic growth and renewable/clean energy jobs, and championing public lands and the environment, which are essential to New Mexico’s heritage, traditions, and economy.
Martin Heinrich is running for re-election to the US Senate. He has held the position since 2013, and serves as chairman of the Joint Economic Committee, chairman of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Subcommittee, and previously as chairman of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies subcommittee.
Previously, Heinrich represented New Mexico's 1st Congressional District from 2009-13 and also served as an Albuquerque City Councilor, and Council President, from 2004-08. He has also run his own public affairs firm, led a nonprofit focused on educating young people on the environment and science, served on the executive committee of the Sierra Club's Rio Grande Chapter, and was appointed by NM Governor Bill Richardson to be the state's Natural Resources Trustee.
Heinrich’s priorities include land conservation and protecting agriculture, ranching, and food systems, investing in infrastructure via rebuilding roads/bridges, expanding access to clean drinking water, and increasing high-speed internet access, protecting civil liberties and individual freedoms, expanding education, healthcare, and wellness programs, and leading efforts to grow jobs and the economy via renewable and clean energy.
His track record includes championing reproductive rights and healthcare – he advanced legislation protecting access to in vitro fertilization (IVF), contraception, and abortion, and co-sponsored Medicare-For-All legislation in 2017. He is a strong supporter of civil rights and was an original cosponsor of 2009 legislation to repeal the ban on gay marriage. Heinrich has advocated for and passed common sense gun safety laws, expanded health care access for veterans in both urban and rural areas, and led efforts to expand and invest in mental/behavioral services including specifically addressing the opioid/fentanyl public health crisis.
Heinrich is also well known for his work supporting clean/renewable energy jobs and protecting the environment and public lands. He co-sponsored the Green New Deal in 2019, which would establish net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and led efforts to establish Columbine-Hondo Wilderness in the Carson National Forest, the creation of the Rio Grande Del Norte and Organ Mountains Desert-Peaks National Monuments, creating the Sabinoso Wilderness, expanded public access to the Valles Caldera National Preserve, Passed the Great American Outdoors Act to address billions of dollars of deferred maintenance on public lands, and designating White Sands as a National Park.
Martin Heinrich is being challenged by Nella Domenici. Domenici is the daughter of former US Senator Pete Domenici, who served from 1973 to 2009. Previously, she worked as CFO for Bridgewater Associates, the world’s largest hedge fund, and has also worked for Citadel and Credit Suisse. Domenici’s stated priorities include increasing oil and gas extraction while reducing regulations, spending more on border security and law enforcement, and lowering taxes. Additionally, on the topic of reproductive health, while she has labeled herself as moderate via TV ads, Domenici has donated close to $20K to extreme anti-abortion candidates, including Yvette Herrell and Mark Ronchetti in New Mexico, Adam Laxalt in Nevada, and her former Bridgewater CEO Dave McCormick in Pennsylvania.
We highly recommend Martin Heinrich for US Senate based on his clear and consistent record of protecting civil and individual rights, investing in infrastructure, spurring sustainable economic growth and renewable/clean energy jobs, and championing public lands and the environment, which are essential to New Mexico’s heritage, traditions, and economy.
1st Congressional District
Melanie Stansbury is running for re-election to New Mexico's 1st Congressional District. She has held the position since 2021, and serves on the House Committee on Natural Resources and the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability.
Before serving in Congress, Stansbury served in the NM State Legislature as House District 28 Representative from 2019-21. Previously, she worked as a STEM Educator and researcher on land and water issues across New Mexico, and as a staffer for the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources and the White House Office of Management and Budget. She is a graduate of Cornell University, Saint Mary's College of California, and Cibola High School.
Stansbury’s priorities include addressing the climate crisis through renewable energy and protection of natural resources, economic opportunity via fair wages, workplace protections, and supporting small businesses, increased access to healthcare including Medicaid expansion and protections for those with pre-existing conditions, and investing in public education including early childhood programs, higher education, and workforce development.
Her track record includes: passing legislation promoting renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, working to increase funding for public education and early childhood programs, supporting bills expanding Medicaid coverage and protecting healthcare access for vulnerable populations, collaborating with local businesses and organizations to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
Melanie Stansbury is being challenged by Steve Jones. Jones describes himself as a graduate of the University of Houston, certified Public Accountant, retired Army Medic, and has also worked as a CFO and investor in the energy sector. His stated priorities are to improve the economy by lowering taxes and reducing government spending, spend more on border security, and protect the 2nd Amendment by promoting education and training while opposing any legislative or regulatory action.
We highly recommend Melanie Stansbury for US Congressional District 1 based on her unique blend of scientific expertise and policy experience, and her track record on climate action, economic opportunity, healthcare access, education, and her close alignment with New Mexican values.
Melanie Stansbury is running for re-election to New Mexico's 1st Congressional District. She has held the position since 2021, and serves on the House Committee on Natural Resources and the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability.
Before serving in Congress, Stansbury served in the NM State Legislature as House District 28 Representative from 2019-21. Previously, she worked as a STEM Educator and researcher on land and water issues across New Mexico, and as a staffer for the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources and the White House Office of Management and Budget. She is a graduate of Cornell University, Saint Mary's College of California, and Cibola High School.
Stansbury’s priorities include addressing the climate crisis through renewable energy and protection of natural resources, economic opportunity via fair wages, workplace protections, and supporting small businesses, increased access to healthcare including Medicaid expansion and protections for those with pre-existing conditions, and investing in public education including early childhood programs, higher education, and workforce development.
Her track record includes: passing legislation promoting renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, working to increase funding for public education and early childhood programs, supporting bills expanding Medicaid coverage and protecting healthcare access for vulnerable populations, collaborating with local businesses and organizations to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
Melanie Stansbury is being challenged by Steve Jones. Jones describes himself as a graduate of the University of Houston, certified Public Accountant, retired Army Medic, and has also worked as a CFO and investor in the energy sector. His stated priorities are to improve the economy by lowering taxes and reducing government spending, spend more on border security, and protect the 2nd Amendment by promoting education and training while opposing any legislative or regulatory action.
We highly recommend Melanie Stansbury for US Congressional District 1 based on her unique blend of scientific expertise and policy experience, and her track record on climate action, economic opportunity, healthcare access, education, and her close alignment with New Mexican values.
Melanie Stansbury is running for re-election to New Mexico's 1st Congressional District. She has held the position since 2021, and serves on the House Committee on Natural Resources and the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability.
Before serving in Congress, Stansbury served in the NM State Legislature as House District 28 Representative from 2019-21. Previously, she worked as a STEM Educator and researcher on land and water issues across New Mexico, and as a staffer for the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources and the White House Office of Management and Budget. She is a graduate of Cornell University, Saint Mary's College of California, and Cibola High School.
Stansbury’s priorities include addressing the climate crisis through renewable energy and protection of natural resources, economic opportunity via fair wages, workplace protections, and supporting small businesses, increased access to healthcare including Medicaid expansion and protections for those with pre-existing conditions, and investing in public education including early childhood programs, higher education, and workforce development.
Her track record includes: passing legislation promoting renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, working to increase funding for public education and early childhood programs, supporting bills expanding Medicaid coverage and protecting healthcare access for vulnerable populations, collaborating with local businesses and organizations to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
Melanie Stansbury is being challenged by Steve Jones. Jones describes himself as a graduate of the University of Houston, certified Public Accountant, retired Army Medic, and has also worked as a CFO and investor in the energy sector. His stated priorities are to improve the economy by lowering taxes and reducing government spending, spend more on border security, and protect the 2nd Amendment by promoting education and training while opposing any legislative or regulatory action.
We highly recommend Melanie Stansbury for US Congressional District 1 based on her unique blend of scientific expertise and policy experience, and her track record on climate action, economic opportunity, healthcare access, education, and her close alignment with New Mexican values.
State Senator, District 12
Senate District 12 is an open seat this year as Senator Gerald Ortiz y Pino is not running for re-election. Phillip Ramirez and Jay Block are running to represent this seat. We recommend Phillip Ramirez.
Phillip Ramirez is running in the General Election for the open seat in Senate District 12. A lifelong resident of Albuquerque's South Valley, Ramirez has spent his career working to improve the lives of New Mexicans. Currently, he works at his family business, a signatory company with the Local UA 412 union, as a project manager and is a Union Refrigeration journeyman. He was also appointed to the Construction Industry’s Commission in 2019, where he was also elected vice chairman in 2021. In addition to his professional experience, Ramirez is passionate about reinforcing young people and is active as a volunteer in little league baseball, serving as the district safety officer and umpire.
Phillip Ramirez is motivated to run for Senate District 12 by his belief that every New Mexican deserves access to quality education, affordable healthcare, and economic opportunities. Passionate about creating a more just and equitable society, his priorities include supporting a trade education curriculum in public schools by reintroducing courses like electrical and auto shops, lowering medical and prescription drug costs, and ensuring workers have a living wage to offer families a sense of financial stability. He also prioritizes investing in renewable energy, electrification, and clean energy jobs, and policies that ensure access to clean water. Additionally, he supports reinforcing and growing small businesses by streamlining permitting, increasing access to grants and low interest loans, and spurring local procurement within government agencies and large institutions.
We highly recommend Phillip Ramirez for Senate District 12 based on his background, experience, and focus on investing in education, healthcare, and New Mexican families.
Phillip Ramirez is running in the General Election for the open seat in Senate District 12. A lifelong resident of Albuquerque's South Valley, Ramirez has spent his career working to improve the lives of New Mexicans. Currently, he works at his family business, a signatory company with the Local UA 412 union, as a project manager and is a Union Refrigeration journeyman. He was also appointed to the Construction Industry’s Commission in 2019, where he was also elected vice chairman in 2021. In addition to his professional experience, Ramirez is passionate about reinforcing young people and is active as a volunteer in little league baseball, serving as the district safety officer and umpire.
Phillip Ramirez is motivated to run for Senate District 12 by his belief that every New Mexican deserves access to quality education, affordable healthcare, and economic opportunities. Passionate about creating a more just and equitable society, his priorities include supporting a trade education curriculum in public schools by reintroducing courses like electrical and auto shops, lowering medical and prescription drug costs, and ensuring workers have a living wage to offer families a sense of financial stability. He also prioritizes investing in renewable energy, electrification, and clean energy jobs, and policies that ensure access to clean water. Additionally, he supports reinforcing and growing small businesses by streamlining permitting, increasing access to grants and low interest loans, and spurring local procurement within government agencies and large institutions.
We highly recommend Phillip Ramirez for Senate District 12 based on his background, experience, and focus on investing in education, healthcare, and New Mexican families.
Phillip Ramirez is running in the General Election for the open seat in Senate District 12. A lifelong resident of Albuquerque's South Valley, Ramirez has spent his career working to improve the lives of New Mexicans. Currently, he works at his family business, a signatory company with the Local UA 412 union, as a project manager and is a Union Refrigeration journeyman. He was also appointed to the Construction Industry’s Commission in 2019, where he was also elected vice chairman in 2021. In addition to his professional experience, Ramirez is passionate about reinforcing young people and is active as a volunteer in little league baseball, serving as the district safety officer and umpire.
Phillip Ramirez is motivated to run for Senate District 12 by his belief that every New Mexican deserves access to quality education, affordable healthcare, and economic opportunities. Passionate about creating a more just and equitable society, his priorities include supporting a trade education curriculum in public schools by reintroducing courses like electrical and auto shops, lowering medical and prescription drug costs, and ensuring workers have a living wage to offer families a sense of financial stability. He also prioritizes investing in renewable energy, electrification, and clean energy jobs, and policies that ensure access to clean water. Additionally, he supports reinforcing and growing small businesses by streamlining permitting, increasing access to grants and low interest loans, and spurring local procurement within government agencies and large institutions.
We highly recommend Phillip Ramirez for Senate District 12 based on his background, experience, and focus on investing in education, healthcare, and New Mexican families.
Other Candidates
Jay Block is running against Phillip Ramirez for Senate District 12. Block has aligned himself with well known MAGA players such as Rep. John Block, who was at the Capitol in Washington, DC on Jan. 6, 2021 and proudly talks about it on his campaign website and social media. Block’s priorities include defunding public schools through school choice, supporting policies that make it harder to vote, and combating fentanyl by stopping immigration, even though 90% of interdicted fentanyl is caught at Ports of Entry and primarily in vehicles driven by U.S. citizens.
During Block’s time as a County Commissioner for Sandoval County, he repeatedly voted against gun safety reform, put the interests of CEOs over those of working people, and spread disinformation about election security and the results of the 2020 Presidential election.
In 2019, Block voted for a “2nd Amendment Sanctuary” Resolution in Sandoval County, allowing Sandoval County Sheriffs to refuse to enforce the state mandated Red Flag Law that allows courts to order the temporary seizure of firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others. In an interview with New Mexico Business First in 2020, Block stated that he did not support increasing minimum wage or an ordinance giving workers mandated paid leave in Sandoval County.
In 2021, Block attempted to arrange an election audit conducted by the same company that led to voter intimidation in Otero County, in Sandoval County. While the audit did not end up happening, the discussions in the County Commission meetings, led by Block, further spread disinformation about the security of New Mexico elections.
Block also has the highest rating possible from the NRA. Given his track record of putting profits and special interest over people, his position on immigration and the border, and consistently sharing dis/misinformation about elections, we do not recommend Jay Block for Senate District 12.
Jay Block is running against Phillip Ramirez for Senate District 12. Block has aligned himself with well known MAGA players such as Rep. John Block, who was at the Capitol in Washington, DC on Jan. 6, 2021 and proudly talks about it on his campaign website and social media. Block’s priorities include defunding public schools through school choice, supporting policies that make it harder to vote, and combating fentanyl by stopping immigration, even though 90% of interdicted fentanyl is caught at Ports of Entry and primarily in vehicles driven by U.S. citizens.
During Block’s time as a County Commissioner for Sandoval County, he repeatedly voted against gun safety reform, put the interests of CEOs over those of working people, and spread disinformation about election security and the results of the 2020 Presidential election.
In 2019, Block voted for a “2nd Amendment Sanctuary” Resolution in Sandoval County, allowing Sandoval County Sheriffs to refuse to enforce the state mandated Red Flag Law that allows courts to order the temporary seizure of firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others. In an interview with New Mexico Business First in 2020, Block stated that he did not support increasing minimum wage or an ordinance giving workers mandated paid leave in Sandoval County.
In 2021, Block attempted to arrange an election audit conducted by the same company that led to voter intimidation in Otero County, in Sandoval County. While the audit did not end up happening, the discussions in the County Commission meetings, led by Block, further spread disinformation about the security of New Mexico elections.
Block also has the highest rating possible from the NRA. Given his track record of putting profits and special interest over people, his position on immigration and the border, and consistently sharing dis/misinformation about elections, we do not recommend Jay Block for Senate District 12.
State House of Representatives
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below State House races on your ballot.
Representative, District 23
Frank Smith Jr. is challenging Republican incumbent Alan Martinez in the General Election for House District 23. Smith currently owns a small business providing rental equipment for first responders. His past experience also includes working in the automotive industry, as owner/manager of a brew pub, and serving honorably in the U.S. Marine Corps where he enlisted and rose to become a Sergeant and then Marine Drill Instructor. He also volunteers as a member of the NM Veterans and Military Families Caucus advocating on behalf of Active-Duty Military Members, Veterans, and their families. Smith is a graduate of Manzano High School, UNM, and earned a law degree from the Santa Clara School of Law.
Smith is motivated to run for House District 23 by his personal experience in the legislature lobbying for a veteran suicide prevention bill, and seeing the current representative skip a hearing because of party politics. His policy priorities include economic growth through creating jobs, employing skills training programs, and support of small businesses and educational opportunities through increasing funding to public schools. Smith will also support public safety initiatives that are comprehensive of community policing and mental health resources as well as increasing access to health care through ensuring access in rural communities, protecting reproductive rights, and healthcare workforce development.
Frank Smith Jr. is challenging the Republican Incumbent, Alan Martinez, who has served in the position since 2022. Martinez has repeatedly voted against policies that serve New Mexican families, including voting against funds for Ruidoso wildfire and flood relief victims in the summer 2024 special session. In the 2024 regular session, he voted against Paid Family Medical Leave, prohibiting firearms at polling locations, establishing clean energy standards, reducing State Income Tax Rates, and establishing a waiting period for firearm purchases. In the 2023 session, he voted against establishing state protections for abortion and gender affirming care, appropriating funds for environmental and cultural preservation, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity, the voting rights act, and establishing negligently leaving a firearm accessible to a minor as a crime.
We recommend Frank Smith Jr. for House District 23 based on his stated priorities, work experience, and track record of advocating for veterans in the round house.
Frank Smith Jr. is challenging Republican incumbent Alan Martinez in the General Election for House District 23. Smith currently owns a small business providing rental equipment for first responders. His past experience also includes working in the automotive industry, as owner/manager of a brew pub, and serving honorably in the U.S. Marine Corps where he enlisted and rose to become a Sergeant and then Marine Drill Instructor. He also volunteers as a member of the NM Veterans and Military Families Caucus advocating on behalf of Active-Duty Military Members, Veterans, and their families. Smith is a graduate of Manzano High School, UNM, and earned a law degree from the Santa Clara School of Law.
Smith is motivated to run for House District 23 by his personal experience in the legislature lobbying for a veteran suicide prevention bill, and seeing the current representative skip a hearing because of party politics. His policy priorities include economic growth through creating jobs, employing skills training programs, and support of small businesses and educational opportunities through increasing funding to public schools. Smith will also support public safety initiatives that are comprehensive of community policing and mental health resources as well as increasing access to health care through ensuring access in rural communities, protecting reproductive rights, and healthcare workforce development.
Frank Smith Jr. is challenging the Republican Incumbent, Alan Martinez, who has served in the position since 2022. Martinez has repeatedly voted against policies that serve New Mexican families, including voting against funds for Ruidoso wildfire and flood relief victims in the summer 2024 special session. In the 2024 regular session, he voted against Paid Family Medical Leave, prohibiting firearms at polling locations, establishing clean energy standards, reducing State Income Tax Rates, and establishing a waiting period for firearm purchases. In the 2023 session, he voted against establishing state protections for abortion and gender affirming care, appropriating funds for environmental and cultural preservation, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity, the voting rights act, and establishing negligently leaving a firearm accessible to a minor as a crime.
We recommend Frank Smith Jr. for House District 23 based on his stated priorities, work experience, and track record of advocating for veterans in the round house.
Frank Smith Jr. is challenging Republican incumbent Alan Martinez in the General Election for House District 23. Smith currently owns a small business providing rental equipment for first responders. His past experience also includes working in the automotive industry, as owner/manager of a brew pub, and serving honorably in the U.S. Marine Corps where he enlisted and rose to become a Sergeant and then Marine Drill Instructor. He also volunteers as a member of the NM Veterans and Military Families Caucus advocating on behalf of Active-Duty Military Members, Veterans, and their families. Smith is a graduate of Manzano High School, UNM, and earned a law degree from the Santa Clara School of Law.
Smith is motivated to run for House District 23 by his personal experience in the legislature lobbying for a veteran suicide prevention bill, and seeing the current representative skip a hearing because of party politics. His policy priorities include economic growth through creating jobs, employing skills training programs, and support of small businesses and educational opportunities through increasing funding to public schools. Smith will also support public safety initiatives that are comprehensive of community policing and mental health resources as well as increasing access to health care through ensuring access in rural communities, protecting reproductive rights, and healthcare workforce development.
Frank Smith Jr. is challenging the Republican Incumbent, Alan Martinez, who has served in the position since 2022. Martinez has repeatedly voted against policies that serve New Mexican families, including voting against funds for Ruidoso wildfire and flood relief victims in the summer 2024 special session. In the 2024 regular session, he voted against Paid Family Medical Leave, prohibiting firearms at polling locations, establishing clean energy standards, reducing State Income Tax Rates, and establishing a waiting period for firearm purchases. In the 2023 session, he voted against establishing state protections for abortion and gender affirming care, appropriating funds for environmental and cultural preservation, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity, the voting rights act, and establishing negligently leaving a firearm accessible to a minor as a crime.
We recommend Frank Smith Jr. for House District 23 based on his stated priorities, work experience, and track record of advocating for veterans in the round house.
Representative, District 44
Kathleen Cates is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 44. She has served in the legislature since 2023, and is currently a member of the Agriculture, Acequias and Water Resources, Health & Human Services, and House Enrolling & Engrossing committee.
Cates works as a Real Estate Broker, and previously worked in the nonprofit sector as CEO and President of LifeROOTS for 10 years, and prior to that in a manager role at Goodwill Industries, as well as running her own business.
She is motivated to run for re-election for House District 44 by a passion for using her background in policy and operations to protect civil rights, support working families, and fix policies and processes that hinder small businesses and homeowners. Her stated priorities include increasing investment in education and child care, affordable housing, diversifying the state’s economy with a focus on hospitality/tourism, film, and clean energy, protecting LGBTQ+ New Mexicans and New Mexicans with a disability, and she also supports modernizing the legislature with salaries and paid staff as well as moving to instant runoff/ranked choice voting.
Cates’ record includes co-sponsoring bills investing in affordable housing (SB216), requiring menstrual products in public schools (HB134), and increased apprenticeships in the trades including expanding into electric vehicles, health care and teaching (HB5). She also voted in favor of Paid Family Medical Leave, protections for abortion and gender affirming healthcare (SB13), requiring health insurance companies to reimburse for mental health coverage (SB273), establishing state clean energy standards (HB41), and the New Mexico Voting Rights Act.
We highly recommend Kathleen Cates for House District 44 based on her stated positions and track record of supporting human rights, responsible economic development, and New Mexican families.
Kathleen Cates is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 44. She has served in the legislature since 2023, and is currently a member of the Agriculture, Acequias and Water Resources, Health & Human Services, and House Enrolling & Engrossing committee.
Cates works as a Real Estate Broker, and previously worked in the nonprofit sector as CEO and President of LifeROOTS for 10 years, and prior to that in a manager role at Goodwill Industries, as well as running her own business.
She is motivated to run for re-election for House District 44 by a passion for using her background in policy and operations to protect civil rights, support working families, and fix policies and processes that hinder small businesses and homeowners. Her stated priorities include increasing investment in education and child care, affordable housing, diversifying the state’s economy with a focus on hospitality/tourism, film, and clean energy, protecting LGBTQ+ New Mexicans and New Mexicans with a disability, and she also supports modernizing the legislature with salaries and paid staff as well as moving to instant runoff/ranked choice voting.
Cates’ record includes co-sponsoring bills investing in affordable housing (SB216), requiring menstrual products in public schools (HB134), and increased apprenticeships in the trades including expanding into electric vehicles, health care and teaching (HB5). She also voted in favor of Paid Family Medical Leave, protections for abortion and gender affirming healthcare (SB13), requiring health insurance companies to reimburse for mental health coverage (SB273), establishing state clean energy standards (HB41), and the New Mexico Voting Rights Act.
We highly recommend Kathleen Cates for House District 44 based on her stated positions and track record of supporting human rights, responsible economic development, and New Mexican families.
Kathleen Cates is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 44. She has served in the legislature since 2023, and is currently a member of the Agriculture, Acequias and Water Resources, Health & Human Services, and House Enrolling & Engrossing committee.
Cates works as a Real Estate Broker, and previously worked in the nonprofit sector as CEO and President of LifeROOTS for 10 years, and prior to that in a manager role at Goodwill Industries, as well as running her own business.
She is motivated to run for re-election for House District 44 by a passion for using her background in policy and operations to protect civil rights, support working families, and fix policies and processes that hinder small businesses and homeowners. Her stated priorities include increasing investment in education and child care, affordable housing, diversifying the state’s economy with a focus on hospitality/tourism, film, and clean energy, protecting LGBTQ+ New Mexicans and New Mexicans with a disability, and she also supports modernizing the legislature with salaries and paid staff as well as moving to instant runoff/ranked choice voting.
Cates’ record includes co-sponsoring bills investing in affordable housing (SB216), requiring menstrual products in public schools (HB134), and increased apprenticeships in the trades including expanding into electric vehicles, health care and teaching (HB5). She also voted in favor of Paid Family Medical Leave, protections for abortion and gender affirming healthcare (SB13), requiring health insurance companies to reimburse for mental health coverage (SB273), establishing state clean energy standards (HB41), and the New Mexico Voting Rights Act.
We highly recommend Kathleen Cates for House District 44 based on her stated positions and track record of supporting human rights, responsible economic development, and New Mexican families.
Other Candidates
Kathleen Cates is being challenged by Ali Ennenga. Based on publicly available information, Ennenga currently runs her own business as a notary signing agent and is the Director of Community Relations at ¡Basta! NM Foundation. Prior to that, she was employed at Americans for Prosperity (AFP), a right-wing group that opposes access to healthcare and worker protections. Ennenga has stated that she opposes Paid Family Medical Leave and that it is her number one priority to stop it from moving forward if elected.
Ennenga has also previously run for NM House District 15 and APS School Board District 3. In past interviews, candidate questionnaires, and campaign websites, Ennenga has proposed repealing the Energy Transition Act and opposed early childhood education programs. During the APS School board race, she also raised claims about schools “teaching pornography to small children” as well as teaching critical race theory and her concern that children were being “indoctrinated and groomed for trafficking and pedophilia.” It is not clear which schools, if any, Ennenga was referring to. In a 2020 Ballotpedia survey, Ennenga also said she would model herself after Representative Jim Townsend who has repeatedly voted against reproductive rights, environmental protections, workers rights, and expanded healthcare.
Given Ennenga’s past positions and potentially spreading dis/misinformation, we do not recommend her for House District 44.
Kathleen Cates is being challenged by Ali Ennenga. Based on publicly available information, Ennenga currently runs her own business as a notary signing agent and is the Director of Community Relations at ¡Basta! NM Foundation. Prior to that, she was employed at Americans for Prosperity (AFP), a right-wing group that opposes access to healthcare and worker protections. Ennenga has stated that she opposes Paid Family Medical Leave and that it is her number one priority to stop it from moving forward if elected.
Ennenga has also previously run for NM House District 15 and APS School Board District 3. In past interviews, candidate questionnaires, and campaign websites, Ennenga has proposed repealing the Energy Transition Act and opposed early childhood education programs. During the APS School board race, she also raised claims about schools “teaching pornography to small children” as well as teaching critical race theory and her concern that children were being “indoctrinated and groomed for trafficking and pedophilia.” It is not clear which schools, if any, Ennenga was referring to. In a 2020 Ballotpedia survey, Ennenga also said she would model herself after Representative Jim Townsend who has repeatedly voted against reproductive rights, environmental protections, workers rights, and expanded healthcare.
Given Ennenga’s past positions and potentially spreading dis/misinformation, we do not recommend her for House District 44.
Representative, District 60
Luke Jungmann is running against incumbent Joshua Hernandez in the General Election for House District 60. He works as a Senior Software Engineer for Mapware, and previously worked as a Software Engineer at Sandia National Laboratories. He was born and raised in New Mexico, and is a graduate of Albuquerque Public Schools, New Mexico Tech, and the University of Pennsylvania.
Jungmann is motivated to run for House District 60 based on his experience in student government in high school and dedication to public service. After seeing Reps. Gloria Johnson, Justin Jones, and Justin Pearson expelled from the Tennessee Legislature for attempting to pass common sense gun reform he was moved to action, became active in local Democratic meetings, and subsequently decided to run for office.
Jungmann’s priorities include focusing on enshrining the right to access abortion care in New Mexico’s constitution and ensuring the right to privacy of anyone who might have to travel to the state to ensure that care as well. Additionally, he supports a Just Transition and increased renewable energy and clean energy jobs, as well as incentivising modernization of building methods to help people save money and energy. He also supports making healthcare accessible and affordable for everyone in the state and attracting more healthcare workers to New Mexico to ensure quality medical care.
We highly recommend Luke Jungmann for House District 60 based on his drive to ensure safe and affordable healthcare for every New Mexican, address the climate crisis and spur clean energy jobs, and his support for teachers and education.
Luke Jungmann is running against incumbent Joshua Hernandez in the General Election for House District 60. He works as a Senior Software Engineer for Mapware, and previously worked as a Software Engineer at Sandia National Laboratories. He was born and raised in New Mexico, and is a graduate of Albuquerque Public Schools, New Mexico Tech, and the University of Pennsylvania.
Jungmann is motivated to run for House District 60 based on his experience in student government in high school and dedication to public service. After seeing Reps. Gloria Johnson, Justin Jones, and Justin Pearson expelled from the Tennessee Legislature for attempting to pass common sense gun reform he was moved to action, became active in local Democratic meetings, and subsequently decided to run for office.
Jungmann’s priorities include focusing on enshrining the right to access abortion care in New Mexico’s constitution and ensuring the right to privacy of anyone who might have to travel to the state to ensure that care as well. Additionally, he supports a Just Transition and increased renewable energy and clean energy jobs, as well as incentivising modernization of building methods to help people save money and energy. He also supports making healthcare accessible and affordable for everyone in the state and attracting more healthcare workers to New Mexico to ensure quality medical care.
We highly recommend Luke Jungmann for House District 60 based on his drive to ensure safe and affordable healthcare for every New Mexican, address the climate crisis and spur clean energy jobs, and his support for teachers and education.
Luke Jungmann is running against incumbent Joshua Hernandez in the General Election for House District 60. He works as a Senior Software Engineer for Mapware, and previously worked as a Software Engineer at Sandia National Laboratories. He was born and raised in New Mexico, and is a graduate of Albuquerque Public Schools, New Mexico Tech, and the University of Pennsylvania.
Jungmann is motivated to run for House District 60 based on his experience in student government in high school and dedication to public service. After seeing Reps. Gloria Johnson, Justin Jones, and Justin Pearson expelled from the Tennessee Legislature for attempting to pass common sense gun reform he was moved to action, became active in local Democratic meetings, and subsequently decided to run for office.
Jungmann’s priorities include focusing on enshrining the right to access abortion care in New Mexico’s constitution and ensuring the right to privacy of anyone who might have to travel to the state to ensure that care as well. Additionally, he supports a Just Transition and increased renewable energy and clean energy jobs, as well as incentivising modernization of building methods to help people save money and energy. He also supports making healthcare accessible and affordable for everyone in the state and attracting more healthcare workers to New Mexico to ensure quality medical care.
We highly recommend Luke Jungmann for House District 60 based on his drive to ensure safe and affordable healthcare for every New Mexican, address the climate crisis and spur clean energy jobs, and his support for teachers and education.
Other Candidates
Joshua Hernandez is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 60. He has held the position since 2021 and serves as a member of the House Commerce & Economic Development, House Taxation & Revenue, and House Printing & Supplies Committees.
Hernandez works as Digital Media Director at Agenda LLC, a multinational digital company that works with companies like Marathon Oil, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and the American Petroleum Institute. He has also worked on multiple state, local, and congressional campaigns as a communications manager and campaign manager. He was born and raised in Albuquerque and is a Cibola High School graduate.
Hernandez’s track record as a legislator includes co-sponsoring an invasive “Parental Bill of Rights” that would force schools to report all personal information of students to their parents, with a specific focus on surveilling LGBTQ+ students.
In recent sessions, Hernandez also voted against paid family medical leave (SB3), prohibiting firearms at state drop boxes and polling places (SB5), establishing protections for abortion and gender affirming healthcare (SB13), expanding accessible voting and elections via the Voting Rights Act (HB4), and requiring disclaimers on political advertising that uses AI-generated content (HB182).
Based on his record of voting against protecting elections and New Mexico’s working families, we do not recommend Joshua Hernandez for House District 60.
Joshua Hernandez is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 60. He has held the position since 2021 and serves as a member of the House Commerce & Economic Development, House Taxation & Revenue, and House Printing & Supplies Committees.
Hernandez works as Digital Media Director at Agenda LLC, a multinational digital company that works with companies like Marathon Oil, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, and the American Petroleum Institute. He has also worked on multiple state, local, and congressional campaigns as a communications manager and campaign manager. He was born and raised in Albuquerque and is a Cibola High School graduate.
Hernandez’s track record as a legislator includes co-sponsoring an invasive “Parental Bill of Rights” that would force schools to report all personal information of students to their parents, with a specific focus on surveilling LGBTQ+ students.
In recent sessions, Hernandez also voted against paid family medical leave (SB3), prohibiting firearms at state drop boxes and polling places (SB5), establishing protections for abortion and gender affirming healthcare (SB13), expanding accessible voting and elections via the Voting Rights Act (HB4), and requiring disclaimers on political advertising that uses AI-generated content (HB182).
Based on his record of voting against protecting elections and New Mexico’s working families, we do not recommend Joshua Hernandez for House District 60.