Senate District 19
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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 19
Senate District 19 is an open seat this year as Senator Gregg Schmedes is not running for re-election. William Burton Scott, Ant Thornton, and Catherine Ann McDivitt are running for the seat. While there is not enough information on Burton Scott and McDivitt to make a recommendation, we do not recommend Ant Thornton for this seat.
William Burton Scott, a retired Army veteran, is running as the Democratic party candidate for Senate District 19. Scott did not return a questionnaire, has no campaign website and has no recent activity on his social media platform.
Catherine Ann McDivitt, a nutritionist and dietician, is also running for Senate District 19 as the Libertarian candidate for the race. McDivitt did not return a questionnaire, has no campaign website, or a social media platform. From the little information we gathered, she has no political background and believes that more work must be done to retain health professionals and reduce crime in our state.
Anthony “Ant” Thornton, a retired aerospace engineer, is running as the Republican party candidate for this seat. Thornton’s priorities include supporting oil and gas producers, closing the border, opposing abortion access and reproductive healthcare, increased law enforcement and defunding public schools by advancing school choice. He has also shared dis/misinformation on immigration and climate change, supports fake pregnancy clinic Care Net, and attended events with Americans for Prosperity (AFP), a right-wing group that opposes access to healthcare and worker protections. Given his views and track record, we do not recommend Ant Thornton for Senate District 19.
There is not enough public information for us to make a recommendation for or against William Burton Scott or Catherine McDivitt for Senate District 19 at this time.
William Burton Scott, a retired Army veteran, is running as the Democratic party candidate for Senate District 19. Scott did not return a questionnaire, has no campaign website and has no recent activity on his social media platform.
Catherine Ann McDivitt, a nutritionist and dietician, is also running for Senate District 19 as the Libertarian candidate for the race. McDivitt did not return a questionnaire, has no campaign website, or a social media platform. From the little information we gathered, she has no political background and believes that more work must be done to retain health professionals and reduce crime in our state.
Anthony “Ant” Thornton, a retired aerospace engineer, is running as the Republican party candidate for this seat. Thornton’s priorities include supporting oil and gas producers, closing the border, opposing abortion access and reproductive healthcare, increased law enforcement and defunding public schools by advancing school choice. He has also shared dis/misinformation on immigration and climate change, supports fake pregnancy clinic Care Net, and attended events with Americans for Prosperity (AFP), a right-wing group that opposes access to healthcare and worker protections. Given his views and track record, we do not recommend Ant Thornton for Senate District 19.
There is not enough public information for us to make a recommendation for or against William Burton Scott or Catherine McDivitt for Senate District 19 at this time.
State House of Representatives
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below State House races on your ballot.
Representative, District 20
Meredith Dixon is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 20. She has held the position since 2021, and currently serves as Vice Chair for the House Appropriations & Finance committee and as a member of the House Energy, Environment & Natural Resources committee. Dixon is a business owner/manager of Blue Advantage Partners, a consulting firm. Her leadership/volunteer experience includes working with organizations like Paws and Stripes Climate Advocates, Voces Unidas, BrainHackers Association, and Electing Women New Mexico. Dixon is a graduate of Chatham College and the University of Pittsburgh.
Dixon is motivated to run for re-election to House District 20 based on her passion for ensuring that New Mexico continues to progress and thrive. Her priorities include addressing the state's most pressing issues, from education and economic development to housing, public safety, and healthcare.
Her track record includes securing funding for early childhood education, workforce training, and clean energy projects, and advocating for veterans, public safety, and healthcare affordability.
Dixon voted in favor of the Voting Rights Act, expanding the state’s opportunity scholarship program, expanding affordable housing, establishing energy efficiency grants, supporting Paid Sick Leave and Paid Family Medical Leave, requiring health insurance companies to provide reimbursement for mental health care, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity, protection for gender affirming care, requiring menstrual products in public schools, establishing a waiting period for firearm purchases, prohibiting intimidation of election officials and threats against judges, and establishing a service members suicide prevention program.
Meredith Dixon is being challenged by Republican Tracy Major and Libertarian John McDivitt. Major is a business owner whose priorities include cutting state spending, removing business regulations, and weakening consumer and environmental protections. Additionally, she seeks to address crime primarily through harsher penalties and incarceration. Her emphasis on “parental rights” also raises concerns about potential restrictions on safe, equitable education. No public information could be found on John McDivitt’s campaign.
We highly recommend Meredith Dixon for re-election to House District 20 based on her track record of investing in early childhood education, protecting healthcare and voting rights/access, and supporting New Mexico’s working families.
Meredith Dixon is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 20. She has held the position since 2021, and currently serves as Vice Chair for the House Appropriations & Finance committee and as a member of the House Energy, Environment & Natural Resources committee. Dixon is a business owner/manager of Blue Advantage Partners, a consulting firm. Her leadership/volunteer experience includes working with organizations like Paws and Stripes Climate Advocates, Voces Unidas, BrainHackers Association, and Electing Women New Mexico. Dixon is a graduate of Chatham College and the University of Pittsburgh.
Dixon is motivated to run for re-election to House District 20 based on her passion for ensuring that New Mexico continues to progress and thrive. Her priorities include addressing the state's most pressing issues, from education and economic development to housing, public safety, and healthcare.
Her track record includes securing funding for early childhood education, workforce training, and clean energy projects, and advocating for veterans, public safety, and healthcare affordability.
Dixon voted in favor of the Voting Rights Act, expanding the state’s opportunity scholarship program, expanding affordable housing, establishing energy efficiency grants, supporting Paid Sick Leave and Paid Family Medical Leave, requiring health insurance companies to provide reimbursement for mental health care, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity, protection for gender affirming care, requiring menstrual products in public schools, establishing a waiting period for firearm purchases, prohibiting intimidation of election officials and threats against judges, and establishing a service members suicide prevention program.
Meredith Dixon is being challenged by Republican Tracy Major and Libertarian John McDivitt. Major is a business owner whose priorities include cutting state spending, removing business regulations, and weakening consumer and environmental protections. Additionally, she seeks to address crime primarily through harsher penalties and incarceration. Her emphasis on “parental rights” also raises concerns about potential restrictions on safe, equitable education. No public information could be found on John McDivitt’s campaign.
We highly recommend Meredith Dixon for re-election to House District 20 based on her track record of investing in early childhood education, protecting healthcare and voting rights/access, and supporting New Mexico’s working families.
Meredith Dixon is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 20. She has held the position since 2021, and currently serves as Vice Chair for the House Appropriations & Finance committee and as a member of the House Energy, Environment & Natural Resources committee. Dixon is a business owner/manager of Blue Advantage Partners, a consulting firm. Her leadership/volunteer experience includes working with organizations like Paws and Stripes Climate Advocates, Voces Unidas, BrainHackers Association, and Electing Women New Mexico. Dixon is a graduate of Chatham College and the University of Pittsburgh.
Dixon is motivated to run for re-election to House District 20 based on her passion for ensuring that New Mexico continues to progress and thrive. Her priorities include addressing the state's most pressing issues, from education and economic development to housing, public safety, and healthcare.
Her track record includes securing funding for early childhood education, workforce training, and clean energy projects, and advocating for veterans, public safety, and healthcare affordability.
Dixon voted in favor of the Voting Rights Act, expanding the state’s opportunity scholarship program, expanding affordable housing, establishing energy efficiency grants, supporting Paid Sick Leave and Paid Family Medical Leave, requiring health insurance companies to provide reimbursement for mental health care, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity, protection for gender affirming care, requiring menstrual products in public schools, establishing a waiting period for firearm purchases, prohibiting intimidation of election officials and threats against judges, and establishing a service members suicide prevention program.
Meredith Dixon is being challenged by Republican Tracy Major and Libertarian John McDivitt. Major is a business owner whose priorities include cutting state spending, removing business regulations, and weakening consumer and environmental protections. Additionally, she seeks to address crime primarily through harsher penalties and incarceration. Her emphasis on “parental rights” also raises concerns about potential restrictions on safe, equitable education. No public information could be found on John McDivitt’s campaign.
We highly recommend Meredith Dixon for re-election to House District 20 based on her track record of investing in early childhood education, protecting healthcare and voting rights/access, and supporting New Mexico’s working families.
Representative, District 22
Fred Ponzlov is challenging Republican Incumbent Stefani Lord in the General Election for House District 22. Ponzlov grew up on a rural farm in Wisconsin, where his family lived modestly without indoor plumbing until he was 11. After earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he pursued acting in New York City and Los Angeles before settling in New Mexico. Once relocated to New Mexico, he wrote a BAFTA Award-winning film and published a book on healing. A lifelong political activist, he has championed social justice causes from farmworker rights to gay rights and the union movement, making him an ideal candidate.
Ponzlov is motivated to run for House District 22 based on his belief in creating a diverse and resilient economy, strong public education, and the protection of fundamental rights, including a woman's right to choose and the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. His priorities include addressing healthcare shortages, water conservation, and infrastructure improvements, while opposing efforts that undermine democracy and voter rights.
Fred also supports responsible gun safety laws, sustainable practices in industries like oil and gas, and expanding access to high-speed internet across the state. Additionally, he seeks to boost the middle class through higher wages and tax reforms and ensure safe, legal, and accessible elections.
We highly recommend Fred Ponzlov for House District 22 based on his stated policy priorities and consistent commitment to social justice causes.
Fred Ponzlov is challenging Republican Incumbent Stefani Lord in the General Election for House District 22. Ponzlov grew up on a rural farm in Wisconsin, where his family lived modestly without indoor plumbing until he was 11. After earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he pursued acting in New York City and Los Angeles before settling in New Mexico. Once relocated to New Mexico, he wrote a BAFTA Award-winning film and published a book on healing. A lifelong political activist, he has championed social justice causes from farmworker rights to gay rights and the union movement, making him an ideal candidate.
Ponzlov is motivated to run for House District 22 based on his belief in creating a diverse and resilient economy, strong public education, and the protection of fundamental rights, including a woman's right to choose and the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. His priorities include addressing healthcare shortages, water conservation, and infrastructure improvements, while opposing efforts that undermine democracy and voter rights.
Fred also supports responsible gun safety laws, sustainable practices in industries like oil and gas, and expanding access to high-speed internet across the state. Additionally, he seeks to boost the middle class through higher wages and tax reforms and ensure safe, legal, and accessible elections.
We highly recommend Fred Ponzlov for House District 22 based on his stated policy priorities and consistent commitment to social justice causes.
Endorsed By: Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate
Fred Ponzlov is challenging Republican Incumbent Stefani Lord in the General Election for House District 22. Ponzlov grew up on a rural farm in Wisconsin, where his family lived modestly without indoor plumbing until he was 11. After earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he pursued acting in New York City and Los Angeles before settling in New Mexico. Once relocated to New Mexico, he wrote a BAFTA Award-winning film and published a book on healing. A lifelong political activist, he has championed social justice causes from farmworker rights to gay rights and the union movement, making him an ideal candidate.
Ponzlov is motivated to run for House District 22 based on his belief in creating a diverse and resilient economy, strong public education, and the protection of fundamental rights, including a woman's right to choose and the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. His priorities include addressing healthcare shortages, water conservation, and infrastructure improvements, while opposing efforts that undermine democracy and voter rights.
Fred also supports responsible gun safety laws, sustainable practices in industries like oil and gas, and expanding access to high-speed internet across the state. Additionally, he seeks to boost the middle class through higher wages and tax reforms and ensure safe, legal, and accessible elections.
We highly recommend Fred Ponzlov for House District 22 based on his stated policy priorities and consistent commitment to social justice causes.
Endorsed By: Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate
Other Candidates
Stefani Lord is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 22. She has held the position since 2021, and currently serves on the House Consumer & Public Affairs and House Health & Human Services committees. Lord was previously a business owner and now dedicates her time to her hobbies and her seat in the legislature. She is also the founder of an organization called Pro-Gun Women.
Lord’s priorities include seeking to reinstate the death penalty, enact strict voter ID requirements, require single sex environments in schools and public life, and banning abortion. She also supports expanding investments in border security and law enforcement.
Lord has a track record of voting against or abstaining on bills that benefit New Mexican families. In the 2024 session, she voted against requiring affirmative consent be taught in colleges, establishing a waiting period for firearm purchases, paid family medical leave, increasing funds for early childcare, and prohibiting firearms at polling locations. She has also voted against protections for abortion and gender affirming care, the Voting Rights Act, menstrual products in schools, requiring insurance companies to provide reimbursement for mental health services, making it a crime to negligently leave a firearm accessible to a minor, appropriating funds for environmental and cultural preservation, establishing a state minimum wage of $15 per hour, establishing clean fuel energy standards, expanding broadband access, and repealing of the 1969 abortion ban.
We do not recommend Stefani Lord for re-election to House District 22 based on her track record of voting against gun safety reform, access to healthcare, and worker protections.
Stefani Lord is running for re-election in the General Election for House District 22. She has held the position since 2021, and currently serves on the House Consumer & Public Affairs and House Health & Human Services committees. Lord was previously a business owner and now dedicates her time to her hobbies and her seat in the legislature. She is also the founder of an organization called Pro-Gun Women.
Lord’s priorities include seeking to reinstate the death penalty, enact strict voter ID requirements, require single sex environments in schools and public life, and banning abortion. She also supports expanding investments in border security and law enforcement.
Lord has a track record of voting against or abstaining on bills that benefit New Mexican families. In the 2024 session, she voted against requiring affirmative consent be taught in colleges, establishing a waiting period for firearm purchases, paid family medical leave, increasing funds for early childcare, and prohibiting firearms at polling locations. She has also voted against protections for abortion and gender affirming care, the Voting Rights Act, menstrual products in schools, requiring insurance companies to provide reimbursement for mental health services, making it a crime to negligently leave a firearm accessible to a minor, appropriating funds for environmental and cultural preservation, establishing a state minimum wage of $15 per hour, establishing clean fuel energy standards, expanding broadband access, and repealing of the 1969 abortion ban.
We do not recommend Stefani Lord for re-election to House District 22 based on her track record of voting against gun safety reform, access to healthcare, and worker protections.
Representative, District 31
House District 31 is an open seat this year as Representative William "Bill" R. Rehm is not running for re-election. Vicky Estrada-Bustillo and Nicole Chavez are running to represent this seat. We recommend Vicky Estrada-Bustillo.
Vicky Estrada-Bustillo is running in the General Election for House District 31. Estrada-Bustillo is a retired civil servant and small business owner who spent over two decades working for the United States Forest Service, including as a District Ranger and Forest Planning Staff Officer at the Cibola National Forest. Post-retirement, Vicky founded Estrada Collaborative Resource Management. Her leadership/volunteer experience includes serving as a board member of the Peppertree/Royal Oak Residents Association, and Chair of the Fuerzas Unidas Caucus. Vicky holds a Master’s degree in Forestry and has been a lifelong resident of District 31.
Estrada-Bustillo is motivated to run for office by a desire to provide proactive, effective leadership for House District 31, driven by a career of facilitating solutions across diverse groups. Her priorities include addressing crime through preventative measures based on data driven solutions, establishing a Prescription Drug Affordability Board in New Mexico to help control the rising drug prices, protecting reproductive rights and abortion access, continuing to invest in successful and growing programs like universal pre-K and free higher education, and reducing homelessness by expanding affordable housing and mental health services. She also supports protecting the environment while simultaneously supporting economic growth through investment in renewable energy and small businesses. Estrada-Bustillo’s policies reflect her extensive background in public service and her commitment to her community.
Vicky Estrada-Bustillo is being challenged for House District 31 by Republican Nicole Chavez. Chavez’s priorities include stronger penalties for those convicted of committing a crime, closing the Border, opposing common sense gun regulation, and “school choice,” a phrase that is regularly used as coded language for defunding public schools. Chavez is also a Team Leader for the New Mexico Chapter of LUCA (Latinos United for Conservative Action) which is a national pro-Trump group aligned with MAGA policies specifically. Their mission statement includes promoting religion in government and schools. LUCA also seeks to ban abortion access.
We highly recommend Vicky Estrada-Bustillo for House District 31 based on her commitment to environmental protections, education, and community safety.
Vicky Estrada-Bustillo is running in the General Election for House District 31. Estrada-Bustillo is a retired civil servant and small business owner who spent over two decades working for the United States Forest Service, including as a District Ranger and Forest Planning Staff Officer at the Cibola National Forest. Post-retirement, Vicky founded Estrada Collaborative Resource Management. Her leadership/volunteer experience includes serving as a board member of the Peppertree/Royal Oak Residents Association, and Chair of the Fuerzas Unidas Caucus. Vicky holds a Master’s degree in Forestry and has been a lifelong resident of District 31.
Estrada-Bustillo is motivated to run for office by a desire to provide proactive, effective leadership for House District 31, driven by a career of facilitating solutions across diverse groups. Her priorities include addressing crime through preventative measures based on data driven solutions, establishing a Prescription Drug Affordability Board in New Mexico to help control the rising drug prices, protecting reproductive rights and abortion access, continuing to invest in successful and growing programs like universal pre-K and free higher education, and reducing homelessness by expanding affordable housing and mental health services. She also supports protecting the environment while simultaneously supporting economic growth through investment in renewable energy and small businesses. Estrada-Bustillo’s policies reflect her extensive background in public service and her commitment to her community.
Vicky Estrada-Bustillo is being challenged for House District 31 by Republican Nicole Chavez. Chavez’s priorities include stronger penalties for those convicted of committing a crime, closing the Border, opposing common sense gun regulation, and “school choice,” a phrase that is regularly used as coded language for defunding public schools. Chavez is also a Team Leader for the New Mexico Chapter of LUCA (Latinos United for Conservative Action) which is a national pro-Trump group aligned with MAGA policies specifically. Their mission statement includes promoting religion in government and schools. LUCA also seeks to ban abortion access.
We highly recommend Vicky Estrada-Bustillo for House District 31 based on her commitment to environmental protections, education, and community safety.
Vicky Estrada-Bustillo is running in the General Election for House District 31. Estrada-Bustillo is a retired civil servant and small business owner who spent over two decades working for the United States Forest Service, including as a District Ranger and Forest Planning Staff Officer at the Cibola National Forest. Post-retirement, Vicky founded Estrada Collaborative Resource Management. Her leadership/volunteer experience includes serving as a board member of the Peppertree/Royal Oak Residents Association, and Chair of the Fuerzas Unidas Caucus. Vicky holds a Master’s degree in Forestry and has been a lifelong resident of District 31.
Estrada-Bustillo is motivated to run for office by a desire to provide proactive, effective leadership for House District 31, driven by a career of facilitating solutions across diverse groups. Her priorities include addressing crime through preventative measures based on data driven solutions, establishing a Prescription Drug Affordability Board in New Mexico to help control the rising drug prices, protecting reproductive rights and abortion access, continuing to invest in successful and growing programs like universal pre-K and free higher education, and reducing homelessness by expanding affordable housing and mental health services. She also supports protecting the environment while simultaneously supporting economic growth through investment in renewable energy and small businesses. Estrada-Bustillo’s policies reflect her extensive background in public service and her commitment to her community.
Vicky Estrada-Bustillo is being challenged for House District 31 by Republican Nicole Chavez. Chavez’s priorities include stronger penalties for those convicted of committing a crime, closing the Border, opposing common sense gun regulation, and “school choice,” a phrase that is regularly used as coded language for defunding public schools. Chavez is also a Team Leader for the New Mexico Chapter of LUCA (Latinos United for Conservative Action) which is a national pro-Trump group aligned with MAGA policies specifically. Their mission statement includes promoting religion in government and schools. LUCA also seeks to ban abortion access.
We highly recommend Vicky Estrada-Bustillo for House District 31 based on her commitment to environmental protections, education, and community safety.