Senate District 23

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. 
 

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.
 

Gabe Vasquez is running for re-election to New Mexico's 2nd Congressional District. He has held the position since 2022, and serves on the House Armed Services Committee and House Agriculture Committee. 

Prior to serving in Congress, Vasquez was a member of Las Cruces City Council from 2017-21. Previously, he worked as Deputy Director of the Western Conservation Foundation, Deputy Director of New Mexico's chapter of the Wilderness Society, Director of Community Relations for the New Mexico Wildlife Federation, and was also executive director of the Las Cruces Hispano Chamber of Commerce and a Field Representative for Senator Martin Heinrich’s office. He is a graduate of New Mexico State University. 

Vasquez’ priorities include strengthening economic development by investing in renewable energy and promoting sustainable agriculture, protecting natural resources, improving healthcare by strengthening the Affordable Care Act, expanding Medicaid, and increasing funding for community health centers, and supporting veterans via mental health support and job training programs. 

His track record includes leading efforts to designate the Organ Mountains Desert Peaks National Monument, sponsoring legislation to return water rights and management to the Pueblo of Zuni, investing in smart technology to detect fentanyl at ports of entry, and providing a pathway to citizenship for essential workers and agricultural workforces. 

We recommend Gabe Vasquez for US Congressional District 2 based on his focus of creating good-paying jobs, protecting our land and water, improving healthcare, and supporting our veterans. 
 

Harold Pope Jr. is running in the General Election for re-election for Senate District 23. Pope has held the position since 2021, and currently serves as Vice Chair on the Senate Education Committee and as a member of the Senate Conservation Committee.

Prior to his election, Pope Jr. retired from the U.S Air Force with 20 years of service, where his roles included serving as a Program Manager, Chemist, and contributing to satellite programs, weapon systems, nuclear deterrence, and security cooperation efforts. He has also worked as a Facility Transition Advisor for the City of Albuquerque, and as a substitute teacher for Albuquerque Public Schools. He is well known for his leadership/volunteer work, including with the NAACP Albuquerque Chapter and International District Community Development Corporation. Pope Jr. is a graduate of UNM and the UNM School of Business.

Pope is motivated to run for re-election to Senate District 23 by his belief that every New Mexican deserves access to quality education, affordable healthcare, and economic opportunities. His priorities include improving education in our state through increased funding for public education, expanded access for early childhood education, increasing compensation for educators, and providing bilingual education and improving our economy by focusing on sustainable development, workforce training, small business support and investing in renewable energy and infrastructure. He also prioritizes expanding Medicaid coverage, protecting natural resources, and addressing public safety at the root causes through policies that invest in mental health and addiction services, promote criminal justice reform, and provide opportunities for youth and at-risk individuals.

Pope has consistently voted in favor of legislation that protects and strengthens New Mexican families, earning him recognition as a champion of social justice and community development. He voted to support Paid Family Medical Leave, requiring disclosure of AI-generated content in political advertising, requiring transparency in prescription drug costs, establishing a waiting period for firearm purchases and prohibiting firearms at state drop boxes and polling places, prohibiting discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity, protecting abortion access and gender affirming care, establishing a $15 state minimum wage, and the Voting Rights Act.

Harold Pope Jr. is being challenged by Republican candidate Terry Lynn Aragon. Aragon’s priorities focus on cutting taxes and reducing government services, which would disproportionately harm low-income communities and communities of color.

We highly recommend Harold Pope Jr. for re-election for Senate District 23 based on his vote record, stated priorities, and proven track record of supporting policies that benefit everyday New Mexicans.

Yanira Gurrola Valenzuela is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 16. Gurrola Valenzuela has served in the seat since 2023, and is Vice Chair of the House Enrolling and Engrossing Committee and member of the House Education Committee and House Labor, Veterans’ and Military Affairs Committee.

Gurrola Valenzuela works as a Project Coordinator for Dual Language Education NM, and previously worked as a Bilingual Math teacher, Computer and Spanish teacher, and ESL tutor. Her leadership/volunteer experience includes serving as a Federation Representative for Albuquerque Teachers Federation, ESL tutor for adults and children, and as a Youth Minister.

Gurrola Valenzuela’s passion to run for re-election to House District 16 comes from her rich and diverse background as an immigrant, educator, woman, and engineer, and her desire to create a foundation of equity, fairness, and sustainability for all New Mexicans. Her priorities include strengthening education by fully funding early childhood, K-12, and extracurricular programs, and ensuring the recruitment and retention of excellent teachers. She also supports public safety measures through equipping law enforcement with essential tools to prevent gun violence and crime.

Additionally, she is committed to reducing homelessness through investments in evidence-based mental health and substance abuse programs, and by increasing affordable housing options. She also supports the expansion of New Mexico’s renewable energy, technology, film, and healthcare sectors to create good-paying, lifelong career opportunities.

Her voting record in past legislative sessions aligns with a focus on equitable education, fair wages and safe working conditions, clean energy, and social justice, including support for clean energy standards (HB 41), protecting abortion and gender affirming healthcare (SB 13), authorizing paid family medical leave (SB 3), and co-sponsoring legislation requiring public colleges and universities to include information on affirmative consent during orientation (HB 151) as well as requiring menstrual products in public schools (HB 134).

Yanira Gurrola Valenzuela is being challenged by Republican Leland Benwood Bohannon for House District 16. Other than confirmation of his candidacy for the seat, no public information was available on Bohannon’s campaign.

We highly recommend Yanira Gurrola for House District 16 based on her consistent support for education, investing in social services and healthcare access, and focus on reinforcing young people and meaningful economic development.

Cynthia Borrego is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 17. Borrego has held the position since 2023, and currently serves as Chair of the House Enrolling & Engrossing Committee and as a member of the House Energy, Environment & Natural Resources and House Taxation & Revenue Committees.

Borrego is the owner of Cyba & Associates and a small retail business in Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, and is a former Albuquerque City Councilor who held both Vice President and President positions on council. She also served as chair of the Land Use and Zoning Committee, chair of the Public Employees Retirement Association, and has extensive leadership/volunteer experience with Mid Region Council of Governments, Rio Grande Credit Union, ABC Community Schools Board, and the Albuquerque Metropolitan Arroyo Flood Control Authority. Borrego is a graduate of the University of New Mexico, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Education and Master’s Degree in Public Administration.

Borrego is motivated to run for re-election to House District 17 by her commitment to economic stability and community well-being. Her priorities include balancing the state budget, expanding mental health services, and an increased police presence. She also seeks to address children's welfare, improve youth education programs, and advance transportation and infrastructure projects.

Her track record includes supporting protections for abortions and gender affirming care, establishing a waiting period for firearm purchases, requiring health insurance companies providing reimbursement for mental health coverage, approving state funds for environment and cultural conservation, investing in affordable housing, and and increasing the amount that is annually transferred to the Early Childhood Education and Care Program Fund. She also co-sponsored legislation requiring public colleges and universities to include material on affirmative consent during orientation.

However, Borrego did vote against paid family medical leave, requiring disclaimers on political advertising that uses AI-generated content, and had some problematic votes while serving on City Council, including voting against instant runoff (aka ranked choice) voting.

Cynthia Borrego is being challenged for House District 17 by Republican Joshua Neal. Neal, who grew up in Los Lunas, is a graduate of New Mexico Tech and works in civil engineering. His stated priorities include addressing crime and supporting law enforcement, advancing school choice, and investing in infrastructure, however, there is no publicly available information on the specific policies he would seek in these areas.

We lean towards Cynthia Borrego for House District 17 based on her track record of supporting affordable housing, child well-being, and education for New Mexican families.

Eleanor Chavez is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 26. She held the position from 2009-2012, and again starting in 2023-present. Chavez currently serves as the Chair of the House Enrolling and Engrossing committee and is a Member of the House Health and Human Services and House Labor, Veterans, and Military Affairs committees.

Chavez works as the Executive Director for National Union of Hospital and Healthcare Employees District 1199, and has previously worked as an Assistant Director and Community Engagement Coordinator for the American Federation of Teachers. Prior to that, her experience includes working as a social worker, community organizer, and an Educational Consultant. Her Volunteer/leadership experience includes serving as Vice-Chair of Health Security for New Mexicans Campaign, and as Chair of Casa de Salud.

Chavez’s passion to run for re-election for House District 26 stems from her personal experience as a labor organizer and her family’s emphasis on education, leading to Chavez being the first in her family to earn a college degree. Her policy priorities include designing child welfare standards for CYFD to support children and case managers, requiring the Department of Health to minimum nursing staffing-to-patient ratios, conducting a study on medicaid managed care companies to determine how to better improve delivery of healthcare, and continuing to address the shortage of affordable housing.

Chavez has a strong track record of meeting the needs of New Mexians, including but not limited to voting for the establishment of affordable housing projects, paid family medical leave, establishing a service member suicide prevention program, reducing state income tax rates, establishing clean energy standards, and establishing a waiting period for firearm purchases. In the 2023 Legislative Session, Chavez voted to protect access to abortion and gender affirming care, prohibiting discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity, appropriating funds for environmental and cultural preservation, and the expansion of the voting rights act. Chavez’s vote record over the past two years shows her commitment to meeting the needs of New Mexicans across the state.

Eleanor Chavez is being challenged by Republican Patrick Sais. While Sais’ campaign website has little information related to his policies, a review of his campaign Facebook highlights his focus on increased funding for law enforcement, “election integrity” which is a code word for restricting voting laws, and “school choice” which would take funding away from public schools and allow parents to use it for private school access, benefiting the wealthy. His campaign Facebook page also regularly reshares mis and dis-information from known conspiracy theorist and election denier Audrey Trujillo.

We highly recommend Eleanor Chavez for re-election to House District 26 based on her strong vote history and personal organizing experience in the district she is representing.

Joy Garrett is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 29. Garrett has held the position since 2019, and currently serves as vice chair of the House Education Committee, and as a member of the House Appropriations and Finance, House Rules, and House Printing and Supplies Committees.

Garrett is a retired educator who worked for nearly 30 years, including teaching ESL, Language Arts, and US History at Wilson Middle School, Harrison Middle School and Jimmy Carter Middle School, as well as teaching fifth grade at Painted Sky Elementary School. She is also well known for her extensive leadership/volunteer experience, including with the Ventana Ranch Neighborhood Association, AFT NM Retirees Association, New Mexico Ethics Watch, National Council of State Legislators Early Learning and Higher Education Fellowships, and for consistently hosting presentations and discussions for area schools on how New Mexico’s state government works.

Garrett is motivated to run for re-election to House District 29 by her passion for serving her community and enhancing public services. Her personal experience with remote teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic also deepened her resolve to expand technology access across New Mexico.

Her legislative track record includes sponsoring bills aimed at keeping schools safe from predators, tackling copper/metal theft, and advocating for increased gun safety measures. She champions public safety, infrastructure improvements on Albuquerque's West Side, workforce training, healthcare access, and ensuring robust educational and economic opportunities for all New Mexicans. She voted in support of paid family medical leave, protections for abortions and gender affirming care, clean energy standards, expanding access to state programs for English language learners, requiring employers to provide one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, and was a co-sponsor on a bill to prohibits future interest rate increases and a bill to establish the early childhood education care fund.

Joy Garrett is being challenged by Republican Gregory Cunningham. Cunningham owns a private security company and previously worked for the Albuquerque Police Department. His priorities include minimum mandatory sentencing, cutting regulations for businesses, and supporting oil and gas producers. He also supports abolishing the Gross Receipts Tax and instead passing costs along to consumers through sales taxes. He opposes Paid Family Medical Leave, gun safety reform, and additional environmental protections for New Mexico’s air, land, and water. In 2022, he also declined to answer whether he agreed with former president Trump’s false claim of winning the 2020 election.

We highly recommend Joy Garrett for House District 29 based on her dedication to education, strong legislative record, and consistency in reinforcing New Mexico’s working families.

Charlotte Little is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 68. She has held the position since 2023 and serves as a member of the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee, House Government, Elections, and Indian Affairs Committee, and the House Enrolling and Engrossing Committee.

Originally from San Felipe Pueblo, Little is a small business owner, and has also worked as Deputy Director for NAVA Education Project, Administrative Officer for the US Department of Health and Human Services, and as a Tribal Administrator for the Pueblo of San Felipe. Her volunteer and leadership experiences include serving as Vice-Chair of New Mexico Voices for Children, President of Emerge New Mexico, and Chair of the San Felipe Pueblo Health Board.

Little’s priorities include focusing on a Just Transition and creating thousands of jobs for NM workers in clean energy, eco-tourism, and the cannabis industry. She supports increased access to affordable healthcare and education, especially investing in and hiring qualified educators across the state. Additionally, Little supports addressing the root causes of crime, homelessness, and addiction, and addressing price gouging on everyday goods and services, including fuel, housing, and prescription drugs.

Little has sponsored bills requiring public colleges and universities to provide information on affirmative consent in orientation (HB151), requiring disclaimers on political advertising that uses AI-generated content (HB182), and requiring menstrual products in public schools (HB134). She has also voted in favor of bills enacting clean energy standards (HB41), paid family medical leave (SB3), prohibiting firearms at state drop boxes and polling places (SB5), establishing protections for abortion and gender affirming healthcare (SB13), and expanding accessible voting and elections via the Voting Rights Act (HB4).

We highly recommend Charlotte Little for re-election for House District 68 based on her record of protecting voting rights, dedication to taking action on climate change, and focus on ensuring all New Mexicans have access to healthcare.