Senate District 9
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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.
Congress
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.
3rd Congressional District
Teresa Leger Fernandez is running for re-election to New Mexico's 3rd Congressional District. She has held the position since 2021, and serves on the House Rules Committee, House Committee on Natural Resources, House Committee on Education and the Workforce, and is Vice Chair of the Congressional Democratic Women’s Caucus and a member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.
Previously, Fernandez was Founder & Primary Counsel at Leger Law & Strategy where her focus areas included impact litigation, community project financing, civil and voting rights, and tribal law. Prior to that, she worked as a General Counsel for Nordhaus Law, specializing in representing Native American sovereign entities and their business and social development entities. She has also served as a Clinton and Obama presidential appointee, White House Fellow on housing issues, Vice Chair of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and as an acequia commission in Northern NM. Fernandez is a graduate of Yale University, received her law degree from Stanford Law School, and was born and raised in Las Vegas, New Mexico,
Fernandez’ priorities include supporting local economies by improving access to education and job training programs, protecting and expanding access to affordable healthcare, particularly in rural areas, addressing the opioid epidemic by investing in mental/behavioral health programs, and building sustainable economic growth through investments in renewable energy, infrastructure, and small businesses.
Her track record includes sponsoring or co-sponsoring legislation to return water rights and management to the Pueblo of Zuni, improve emergency obstetric services and training for rural areas, get unhoused disabled veterans into housing built exclusively for them on veteran land, and increase access to mental/behavioral programs for the opioid/fentanyl public health crisis. Additionally, Fernandez has advocated for a just transition away from fossil fuels to renewable energy and clean energy jobs, Medicare for All, and to ban the sale of weapons of war including semi-automatic rifles. She also supports the DREAM Act, comprehensive immigration reform, and has advanced legislation to reinforce Native American communities in access to credit/finance as well as investing in Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) to increase homeownership for tribal communities in rural areas.
Teresa Leger Fernandez is being challenged by Sharon E. Clahchischilliage. Clahchischilliage is a member of the NM Public Education Commission and served in the NM Legislature as the House District 4 representative from 2013-18. She has also worked as a special education teacher and for the Navajo Nation, and was nominated/appointed by George W. Bush and Heather Wilson to executive branch roles. While there is limited information on her priorities and proposed policy, her website states that she is focused on private lands issues, agriculture, and education.
We highly recommend Teresa Leger Fernandez for US Congressional District 3 based on her close collaboration with our state’s tribes, nations, and pueblos, commitment to public service, and track record of investing in education, expanding healthcare access, and creating economic opportunities for all New Mexican families.
Teresa Leger Fernandez is running for re-election to New Mexico's 3rd Congressional District. She has held the position since 2021, and serves on the House Rules Committee, House Committee on Natural Resources, House Committee on Education and the Workforce, and is Vice Chair of the Congressional Democratic Women’s Caucus and a member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.
Previously, Fernandez was Founder & Primary Counsel at Leger Law & Strategy where her focus areas included impact litigation, community project financing, civil and voting rights, and tribal law. Prior to that, she worked as a General Counsel for Nordhaus Law, specializing in representing Native American sovereign entities and their business and social development entities. She has also served as a Clinton and Obama presidential appointee, White House Fellow on housing issues, Vice Chair of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and as an acequia commission in Northern NM. Fernandez is a graduate of Yale University, received her law degree from Stanford Law School, and was born and raised in Las Vegas, New Mexico,
Fernandez’ priorities include supporting local economies by improving access to education and job training programs, protecting and expanding access to affordable healthcare, particularly in rural areas, addressing the opioid epidemic by investing in mental/behavioral health programs, and building sustainable economic growth through investments in renewable energy, infrastructure, and small businesses.
Her track record includes sponsoring or co-sponsoring legislation to return water rights and management to the Pueblo of Zuni, improve emergency obstetric services and training for rural areas, get unhoused disabled veterans into housing built exclusively for them on veteran land, and increase access to mental/behavioral programs for the opioid/fentanyl public health crisis. Additionally, Fernandez has advocated for a just transition away from fossil fuels to renewable energy and clean energy jobs, Medicare for All, and to ban the sale of weapons of war including semi-automatic rifles. She also supports the DREAM Act, comprehensive immigration reform, and has advanced legislation to reinforce Native American communities in access to credit/finance as well as investing in Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) to increase homeownership for tribal communities in rural areas.
Teresa Leger Fernandez is being challenged by Sharon E. Clahchischilliage. Clahchischilliage is a member of the NM Public Education Commission and served in the NM Legislature as the House District 4 representative from 2013-18. She has also worked as a special education teacher and for the Navajo Nation, and was nominated/appointed by George W. Bush and Heather Wilson to executive branch roles. While there is limited information on her priorities and proposed policy, her website states that she is focused on private lands issues, agriculture, and education.
We highly recommend Teresa Leger Fernandez for US Congressional District 3 based on her close collaboration with our state’s tribes, nations, and pueblos, commitment to public service, and track record of investing in education, expanding healthcare access, and creating economic opportunities for all New Mexican families.
Teresa Leger Fernandez is running for re-election to New Mexico's 3rd Congressional District. She has held the position since 2021, and serves on the House Rules Committee, House Committee on Natural Resources, House Committee on Education and the Workforce, and is Vice Chair of the Congressional Democratic Women’s Caucus and a member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.
Previously, Fernandez was Founder & Primary Counsel at Leger Law & Strategy where her focus areas included impact litigation, community project financing, civil and voting rights, and tribal law. Prior to that, she worked as a General Counsel for Nordhaus Law, specializing in representing Native American sovereign entities and their business and social development entities. She has also served as a Clinton and Obama presidential appointee, White House Fellow on housing issues, Vice Chair of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and as an acequia commission in Northern NM. Fernandez is a graduate of Yale University, received her law degree from Stanford Law School, and was born and raised in Las Vegas, New Mexico,
Fernandez’ priorities include supporting local economies by improving access to education and job training programs, protecting and expanding access to affordable healthcare, particularly in rural areas, addressing the opioid epidemic by investing in mental/behavioral health programs, and building sustainable economic growth through investments in renewable energy, infrastructure, and small businesses.
Her track record includes sponsoring or co-sponsoring legislation to return water rights and management to the Pueblo of Zuni, improve emergency obstetric services and training for rural areas, get unhoused disabled veterans into housing built exclusively for them on veteran land, and increase access to mental/behavioral programs for the opioid/fentanyl public health crisis. Additionally, Fernandez has advocated for a just transition away from fossil fuels to renewable energy and clean energy jobs, Medicare for All, and to ban the sale of weapons of war including semi-automatic rifles. She also supports the DREAM Act, comprehensive immigration reform, and has advanced legislation to reinforce Native American communities in access to credit/finance as well as investing in Native community development financial institutions (CDFIs) to increase homeownership for tribal communities in rural areas.
Teresa Leger Fernandez is being challenged by Sharon E. Clahchischilliage. Clahchischilliage is a member of the NM Public Education Commission and served in the NM Legislature as the House District 4 representative from 2013-18. She has also worked as a special education teacher and for the Navajo Nation, and was nominated/appointed by George W. Bush and Heather Wilson to executive branch roles. While there is limited information on her priorities and proposed policy, her website states that she is focused on private lands issues, agriculture, and education.
We highly recommend Teresa Leger Fernandez for US Congressional District 3 based on her close collaboration with our state’s tribes, nations, and pueblos, commitment to public service, and track record of investing in education, expanding healthcare access, and creating economic opportunities for all New Mexican families.
State Senator, District 9
Senate District 9 is an open seat this year as Senator Brenda McKenna is not running for re-election. Cindy Nava and Audrey Trujillo are running to represent this seat. We highly recommend Cindy Nava.
Cindy Nava is running for the open seat in Senate District 9. Nava left her appointment by the White House as Senior Policy Advisor to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development early this year in order to run for this seat. Prior to that Nava was Executive Director of Transform Education NM, managed/owned her own consulting firm, NAVA Strategies, and was the Political Director for Ben Ray Lujan’s U.S. Senate Campaign. Her volunteer and leadership experience includes serving on the board for Youth Development Inc. (YDI), and she is also a founding Board Member of the American Mexican Association (AMA-USA).
Nava’s personal experience of being undocumented, becoming a Dreamer (DACA recipient), and receiving her U.S. citizenship drives her passion to run for Senate District 9. Her priorities include improving education from early childhood through secondary education by increasing pay for educators and creating facilities that support learning, increasing investments in affordable housing and first-time home buyer programs as well as low interest loans, and making healthcare more affordable by reducing premium rates through New Mexico’s health exchange as well as focusing on recruitment and retention of high quality health care providers to New Mexico.
We highly recommend Cindy Nava for Senate District 9 based on her policy work, lived experience, and demonstrated commitment to improving the lives of all New Mexicans.
Cindy Nava is running for the open seat in Senate District 9. Nava left her appointment by the White House as Senior Policy Advisor to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development early this year in order to run for this seat. Prior to that Nava was Executive Director of Transform Education NM, managed/owned her own consulting firm, NAVA Strategies, and was the Political Director for Ben Ray Lujan’s U.S. Senate Campaign. Her volunteer and leadership experience includes serving on the board for Youth Development Inc. (YDI), and she is also a founding Board Member of the American Mexican Association (AMA-USA).
Nava’s personal experience of being undocumented, becoming a Dreamer (DACA recipient), and receiving her U.S. citizenship drives her passion to run for Senate District 9. Her priorities include improving education from early childhood through secondary education by increasing pay for educators and creating facilities that support learning, increasing investments in affordable housing and first-time home buyer programs as well as low interest loans, and making healthcare more affordable by reducing premium rates through New Mexico’s health exchange as well as focusing on recruitment and retention of high quality health care providers to New Mexico.
We highly recommend Cindy Nava for Senate District 9 based on her policy work, lived experience, and demonstrated commitment to improving the lives of all New Mexicans.
Cindy Nava is running for the open seat in Senate District 9. Nava left her appointment by the White House as Senior Policy Advisor to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development early this year in order to run for this seat. Prior to that Nava was Executive Director of Transform Education NM, managed/owned her own consulting firm, NAVA Strategies, and was the Political Director for Ben Ray Lujan’s U.S. Senate Campaign. Her volunteer and leadership experience includes serving on the board for Youth Development Inc. (YDI), and she is also a founding Board Member of the American Mexican Association (AMA-USA).
Nava’s personal experience of being undocumented, becoming a Dreamer (DACA recipient), and receiving her U.S. citizenship drives her passion to run for Senate District 9. Her priorities include improving education from early childhood through secondary education by increasing pay for educators and creating facilities that support learning, increasing investments in affordable housing and first-time home buyer programs as well as low interest loans, and making healthcare more affordable by reducing premium rates through New Mexico’s health exchange as well as focusing on recruitment and retention of high quality health care providers to New Mexico.
We highly recommend Cindy Nava for Senate District 9 based on her policy work, lived experience, and demonstrated commitment to improving the lives of all New Mexicans.
Other Candidates
Cindy Nava is being challenged by Republican Audrey Trujillo for Senate District 9. Trujillo is a prominent MAGA Republican who previously ran for House District 23 in 2020 and NM Secretary of State in 2022.
During the 2022 campaign, she appeared on Steve Bannon’s War Room show, where she uplifted the “Big Lie” that former President Trump won the 2020 election. She also regularly uplifts harmful conspiracy theories about school shootings, public health, and immigration, and has shared antisemitic content on social media, the latter of which she was denounced for by her own party leading into the 2024 primary election. She has also appeared at events alongside nationally recognized extremists and conspiracy theorists like Mike Lindell, Joe Oltmann and Seth Keshel. Trujillo is also recognized for spreading dis/misinformation about LGBTQ+ communities, including a recent example where she stated in a social media post that “humanity is under a major attack” and “I believe the confusion comes from Satan and his desire to destroy God’s creation.”
Her priorities include using state funds to build a border wall and deploy the National Guard, addressing public safety/crime through harsher sentencing and reinstating the death penalty, and supporting oil and gas producers. She also opposes worker protections like Paid Family Medical Leave and raising the minimum wage, and additional environmental protections for New Mexico’s land, air, and water.
We do not recommend Audrey Trujillo for Senate District 9 based on her stated priorities and track record of spreading dis/misinformation, including content aimed at destabilizing New Mexico’s elections.
Cindy Nava is being challenged by Republican Audrey Trujillo for Senate District 9. Trujillo is a prominent MAGA Republican who previously ran for House District 23 in 2020 and NM Secretary of State in 2022.
During the 2022 campaign, she appeared on Steve Bannon’s War Room show, where she uplifted the “Big Lie” that former President Trump won the 2020 election. She also regularly uplifts harmful conspiracy theories about school shootings, public health, and immigration, and has shared antisemitic content on social media, the latter of which she was denounced for by her own party leading into the 2024 primary election. She has also appeared at events alongside nationally recognized extremists and conspiracy theorists like Mike Lindell, Joe Oltmann and Seth Keshel. Trujillo is also recognized for spreading dis/misinformation about LGBTQ+ communities, including a recent example where she stated in a social media post that “humanity is under a major attack” and “I believe the confusion comes from Satan and his desire to destroy God’s creation.”
Her priorities include using state funds to build a border wall and deploy the National Guard, addressing public safety/crime through harsher sentencing and reinstating the death penalty, and supporting oil and gas producers. She also opposes worker protections like Paid Family Medical Leave and raising the minimum wage, and additional environmental protections for New Mexico’s land, air, and water.
We do not recommend Audrey Trujillo for Senate District 9 based on her stated priorities and track record of spreading dis/misinformation, including content aimed at destabilizing New Mexico’s elections.
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 50
Matthew McQueen is running for re-election for House District 50. McQueen has held the position since 2015, and currently serves as the Chair for the House Energy, Environment & Natural Resources committee and is a member of the House Judiciary. He also serves interim committees as Chair for the Water & Natural Resources committee and member of the Land Grant committee.
His volunteer/leadership includes serving as Chair for Santa Fe County Open Land, and as a member of the Trails & Parks Advisory Committee, Santa Fe River Commission
Member, and Bureau of Land Management Resource Advisory Council. He is also active with the Santa Fe Green Chamber of Commerce and Santa Fe Watershed Association
McQueen works as an attorney at Graeser & McQueen, LLC, and has a background in environmental conservation and land management. Previously, he has also worked as Director of Conservation Programs for the Santa Fe Conservation Trust, Director of Land Conservation for the Taos Land Trust, and as an Attorney for the New Mexico Office of the State Engineer.
His priorities include diversifying New Mexico's economy by investing in renewable energy and high-tech industries, improving education through better teacher pay and early childhood programs, and addressing climate change with clean energy initiatives. He is committed to health care reform, particularly expanding access to behavioral health services and rural healthcare. He also prioritizes ethics and transparency in government, including advocating for anti-corruption measures and fair redistricting.
McQueen’s track record includes sponsoring multiple bills focused on environmental conservation, protecting public lands, and government reform. He has led efforts to increase revenue by setting higher royalty rates for oil and gas leases on state trust lands, reforming the State Game Commission, and amending the Forest Conservation Act to improve forest fire prevention and control. He also worked on bills addressing radioactive waste storage, public peace, and the health, safety, and welfare of New Mexicans. Additionally, he has proposed constitutional amendments related to legislative processes and government transparency.
We highly recommend Matthew McQueen for House District 50 based on his significant experience in environmental conservation, focus on government reform, and his strong commitment to diversifying New Mexico's economy.
Matthew McQueen is running for re-election for House District 50. McQueen has held the position since 2015, and currently serves as the Chair for the House Energy, Environment & Natural Resources committee and is a member of the House Judiciary. He also serves interim committees as Chair for the Water & Natural Resources committee and member of the Land Grant committee.
His volunteer/leadership includes serving as Chair for Santa Fe County Open Land, and as a member of the Trails & Parks Advisory Committee, Santa Fe River Commission
Member, and Bureau of Land Management Resource Advisory Council. He is also active with the Santa Fe Green Chamber of Commerce and Santa Fe Watershed Association
McQueen works as an attorney at Graeser & McQueen, LLC, and has a background in environmental conservation and land management. Previously, he has also worked as Director of Conservation Programs for the Santa Fe Conservation Trust, Director of Land Conservation for the Taos Land Trust, and as an Attorney for the New Mexico Office of the State Engineer.
His priorities include diversifying New Mexico's economy by investing in renewable energy and high-tech industries, improving education through better teacher pay and early childhood programs, and addressing climate change with clean energy initiatives. He is committed to health care reform, particularly expanding access to behavioral health services and rural healthcare. He also prioritizes ethics and transparency in government, including advocating for anti-corruption measures and fair redistricting.
McQueen’s track record includes sponsoring multiple bills focused on environmental conservation, protecting public lands, and government reform. He has led efforts to increase revenue by setting higher royalty rates for oil and gas leases on state trust lands, reforming the State Game Commission, and amending the Forest Conservation Act to improve forest fire prevention and control. He also worked on bills addressing radioactive waste storage, public peace, and the health, safety, and welfare of New Mexicans. Additionally, he has proposed constitutional amendments related to legislative processes and government transparency.
We highly recommend Matthew McQueen for House District 50 based on his significant experience in environmental conservation, focus on government reform, and his strong commitment to diversifying New Mexico's economy.
Matthew McQueen is running for re-election for House District 50. McQueen has held the position since 2015, and currently serves as the Chair for the House Energy, Environment & Natural Resources committee and is a member of the House Judiciary. He also serves interim committees as Chair for the Water & Natural Resources committee and member of the Land Grant committee.
His volunteer/leadership includes serving as Chair for Santa Fe County Open Land, and as a member of the Trails & Parks Advisory Committee, Santa Fe River Commission
Member, and Bureau of Land Management Resource Advisory Council. He is also active with the Santa Fe Green Chamber of Commerce and Santa Fe Watershed Association
McQueen works as an attorney at Graeser & McQueen, LLC, and has a background in environmental conservation and land management. Previously, he has also worked as Director of Conservation Programs for the Santa Fe Conservation Trust, Director of Land Conservation for the Taos Land Trust, and as an Attorney for the New Mexico Office of the State Engineer.
His priorities include diversifying New Mexico's economy by investing in renewable energy and high-tech industries, improving education through better teacher pay and early childhood programs, and addressing climate change with clean energy initiatives. He is committed to health care reform, particularly expanding access to behavioral health services and rural healthcare. He also prioritizes ethics and transparency in government, including advocating for anti-corruption measures and fair redistricting.
McQueen’s track record includes sponsoring multiple bills focused on environmental conservation, protecting public lands, and government reform. He has led efforts to increase revenue by setting higher royalty rates for oil and gas leases on state trust lands, reforming the State Game Commission, and amending the Forest Conservation Act to improve forest fire prevention and control. He also worked on bills addressing radioactive waste storage, public peace, and the health, safety, and welfare of New Mexicans. Additionally, he has proposed constitutional amendments related to legislative processes and government transparency.
We highly recommend Matthew McQueen for House District 50 based on his significant experience in environmental conservation, focus on government reform, and his strong commitment to diversifying New Mexico's economy.
Other Candidates
Matthew McQueen is being challenged by Kenneth “Ken” Brennan for House District 50.
Ken Brennan is currently serving his second term as the mayor of Edgewood. He is a Navy veteran, businessman, and has previously worked in the gas turbine and wind turbine power plant sectors.
His priorities include supporting law enforcement, defending veterans, infrastructure, and cutting business taxes and reducing government regulations. Brennan has spoken out against gun safety reform in the legislature and voted for an Edgewood town ordinance to block abortion medication or supplies from being distributed by mail.
He has also indicated his support for anti-LGBTQ+ proposals, including allowing faith-based organizations to refuse service, and requiring schools to disclose personal information of students.
We do not recommend Ken Brennan for House District 50 based on his record and views on abortion access, gun safety, and anti-LGBTQ+ policies.
Matthew McQueen is being challenged by Kenneth “Ken” Brennan for House District 50.
Ken Brennan is currently serving his second term as the mayor of Edgewood. He is a Navy veteran, businessman, and has previously worked in the gas turbine and wind turbine power plant sectors.
His priorities include supporting law enforcement, defending veterans, infrastructure, and cutting business taxes and reducing government regulations. Brennan has spoken out against gun safety reform in the legislature and voted for an Edgewood town ordinance to block abortion medication or supplies from being distributed by mail.
He has also indicated his support for anti-LGBTQ+ proposals, including allowing faith-based organizations to refuse service, and requiring schools to disclose personal information of students.
We do not recommend Ken Brennan for House District 50 based on his record and views on abortion access, gun safety, and anti-LGBTQ+ policies.