Featured Presentation
The PVA has invited candidates for New Mexico Governor to make Featured Presentations and at this meeting we welcomed former four-term Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima. Ken is running as an Independent and is in the process of gathering the 14,200 signatures required to qualify for the November ballot.
In his remarks Ken focused on three major priorities: reducing homelessness, lowering housing costs, and stopping the loss of doctors from New Mexico. On homelessness, he argued that different groups require different solutions, including people who have lost jobs, those choosing an off-grid lifestyle, people struggling with addiction, and those with mental illness. He proposed expanding models such as the Community of Hope, using state, local, opioid settlement and cannabis tax funds to provide treatment, shelter, and support services. He also emphasized greater cooperation between state and local governments and pointed to his experience as mayor as evidence that effective management can improve public services.
On health care, Ken argued that medical malpractice laws, venue shopping by attorneys, and lower Medicare reimbursement rates compared with neighboring Texas contribute to doctors leaving New Mexico. He proposed a variety of policy reforms, a reduction of gross receipts taxes on medical services, and seeking federal changes to increase Medicare reimbursement rates. During the question-and-answer session, he criticized the handling of Project Jupiter as lacking sufficient transparency and public review, outlined a step-by-step housing strategy for people experiencing homelessness, and expressed support for helping formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society through job training, possible record expungement for successful participants, and voting rights.
We can read more about Ken and his proposals on his campaign website and can sign his nominating petition here. We can also scan this QR code for more information:
Advocate urges preservation and pause on Sunspot Solar Observatory decommissioning
Heidi Sanchez called for preserving the Sunspot Solar Observatory after the National Science Foundation announced plans to decommission the Dunn Solar Telescope, dismantle the site, and return the land to the Forest Service. She warned that if demolition proceeds, New Mexico risks losing a 75-year scientific, educational, and cultural landmark. Heidi emphasized that the site supports research, STEM education, tourism, and the local economy, and could be reimagined for new uses such as outreach, astro-tourism, and community partnerships. She urged a temporary pause in decommissioning so stakeholders can explore alternatives before irreversible demolition occurs.
For more information, contact Heidi at hbsanchez312@gmail.com.
Praise for Lori Martinez’s independence in House District 37 race
Rep. Joanne Ferrary, who is not seeking reelection, expressed strong support for Lori Martinez, describing her as authentic and committed to grassroots campaigning. She emphasized that Lori is not backed by groups such as Project Jupiter. Go to Lori’s website for more.
For more information, contact Joanne at ferraryrep37@gmail.com.
An appeal for community support of immigrants
Jennifer Kreie spoke about her volunteer work accompanying individuals to immigration court and the Otero County Processing Center detention facility. She said that, although such cases receive little media attention, immigrants are being detained even when they appear at court as required, including a longtime Las Cruces resident and permanent resident who was recently taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Jennifer urged community members to support the organization “Acompañantes,” which documents and witnesses immigration enforcement actions affecting local residents. She asked for donations to help sustain the group’s work and offered informational handouts and PDF materials to interested attendees.
For more information, contact Jennifer at jenniferkreie@gmail.com or 575-571-0300.
Donations to:
Immigrant Assistance Fund
Holy Cross Retreat Center
600 Holy Cross Rd
Mesilla Park, NM 88047
Support for Matthew McQueen, running for New Mexico Land Commissioner
Penny Scribner urged voters to support Matthew McQueen for New Mexico Land Commissioner, describing him as highly qualified due to his leadership on environmental, energy, and conservation issues in the state legislature. She noted that the Land Commissioner oversees millions of acres of trust lands that generate funding for schools, universities, hospitals, and other public institutions. Penny praised Matthew McQueen’s record of supporting education, holding oil and gas companies accountable, and opposing Project Jupiter. She also said he would focus on combating climate change, protecting water resources, expanding renewable energy, preserving open space and wildlife corridors, and promoting outdoor recreation in New Mexico.
For more information, contact Penny at penelopescribner@gmail.com.
Advocating for stronger progressive engagement in local elections
Zac Egan spoke about a recent public forum on Project Jupiter that drew strong attendance but limited participation from elected officials, noting that only one state representative and one city councilor attended while county commissioners were absent. He said this was especially important during election season, when voters should pay attention to whether candidates and officeholders truly support progressive values. Zac concluded by thanking attendees for their involvement and participation, and then whisked off to a birthday party!
For more information, contact Zac at zegan7568@gmail.com.
An endorsement of Matthew McQueen and a warning of major El Paso Electric rate increases
Rocky Bacchus strongly endorsed Matthew McQueen for Land Commissioner, highlighting his endorsements from current and former officials, including two past land commissioners. Rocky argued that McQueen’s experience as a land attorney and legislative committee leader makes him especially qualified to oversee billions of dollars in trust land revenues that support New Mexico schools and public institutions.
Rocky also raised concerns about a pending rate case involving El Paso Electric, stating that the utility has proposed a 70% base rate increase and warning that additional large increases could follow in coming years. He urged legislators to meet with him to discuss possible solutions, including measures to improve energy interconnections and funding strategies.
For more information, contact Rocky at RockyBacchus@gmail.com.
Parkinson’s support group promotes resources, activities, and community outreach
Lynn Austin encouraged community members to learn about and participate in a local Parkinson’s support group that meets on the third Tuesday of each month at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites. He said the group is active and welcoming to people with Parkinson’s disease as well as caregivers, and highlighted activities such as pickleball participation by members.
Lynn also offered free informational materials, including flyers and a simplified summary he prepared from extensive scientific research on Parkinson’s prevention and treatment. He emphasized that Parkinson’s disease remains a serious ongoing issue and invited attendees to pick up materials after the meeting.
For more information, contact Lynn at LAustin@interserv.com.
Church-State Separation and Texas Senate Race
Jim Hoerst announced his candidacy for the steering committee of Indivisible Las Cruces and asked attendees for their support. He also discussed the Texas U.S. Senate race, criticizing Ken Paxton for views he said undermine the constitutional principle of separation of church and state. Jim expressed concern that religious influence in government is growing and argued that references to God in public oaths and pledges can make nonbelievers feel excluded. He urged people who support church-state separation to stay politically engaged and, if possible, help oppose Paxton’s Senate campaign.
For more information, contact Jim at seattetags@gmail.com.
Update from Friends of the Library
Sandy Katayanagi shared several updates related to the Friends of the Thomas Branigan Memorial Library. She announced that the Las Cruces City Council voted to place a $26 million general obligation bond on the November ballot to fund long-awaited renovations to the city library system. Sandy also promoted an upcoming library book sale scheduled for June 11–14, featuring low-cost books, and invited us to an author talk on June 17 with sci-fi and murder mystery writer Tamar Myers.
For more information, contact Sandy at stkataya@yahoo.com.
Support for local candidates
Laura Simon urged voters to support former county commissioner Shannon Reynolds for County Assessor, acknowledging criticism over his involvement with Project Jupiter but arguing that he consistently served constituents well during his years in office. She described Reynolds as accessible, responsive, and committed to the community, calling Project Jupiter an isolated mistake in an otherwise strong public service record.
Laura also endorsed Vanessa Ordoñez for County Sheriff, noting that Ordoñez had just completed a 10-month law enforcement executive program, and encouraged support for Julia T. Brown on the November ballot.
For more information, contact Laura at MissLaura555@gmail.com.
Eugene Alvarez, running for Doña Ana County Sheriff
Eugene Alvarez introduced himself as a candidate for Doña Ana County Sheriff, highlighting his background with the New Mexico State Police, the Las Cruces Marshal’s Office, and local schools. He described his experience as an educator and school resource officer, noting that he earned degrees in criminal justice administration and secondary education while working in schools across the region. Gene said his top priority if elected would be creating a mental health crisis response team for the sheriff’s office, similar to programs operated by the Las Cruces Police Department and local fire services. He also pledged to expand school resource officer programs into unincorporated areas of the county, especially within the Gadsden Independent School District.
For more information, contact Eugene at eealvarez1a@gmail.com.
Read this Saul Alinsky book, in memory of our friend Jon Delgado
City Councilor Michael Harris said he plans to provide an update at an upcoming city council meeting about concerns related to Flock surveillance technology, an issue he has been following closely.
Speaking in a personal capacity rather than as a council member, he also shared the local candidates he is supporting in the primary election, including Micaela Lara Cadena, Daisy Maldonado, Isabel Jerabek, Tilly Villalobos, and Vanessa Ordoñez. Michael also encouraged voters to vote in uncontested judicial races, noting that judges still must meet minimum vote thresholds. He concluded by telling us that Jon Delgado (who passed away on May 3) recommended the book Rules for Radicals by Saul Alinsky, and Michael described the book as a useful guide for activists and organizers.
For more information, contact Michael at michael@harris4LC.com.
Support for Lori Martinez for House District 37
State Representative Sarah Silva of House District 53, spoke in strong support of Lori Martinez’s campaign for House District 37. She outlined her view of what makes an effective legislator — intellectual curiosity, straightforward communication, building power with those directly impacted rather than donors and lobbyists, and navigating competing interests guided by values and data. She described Lori as embodying all of these qualities, calling her curious, courageous, independent, and agile, and argued that a lack of such leadership in Santa Fe causes important issues to stall. She closed by inviting attendees to join her for a door-knocking event for Lori on Saturday morning, May 30th, at 9:30am, at Sagecrest Park. Sarah is also running for re-election for House District 53.
For more information, Sarah can be reached at sarahangelinasilva@gmail.com.
Support for James Frietze for Doña Ana County Sheriff
Shirley Baca distributed a handout to attendees and spoke about the importance of being informed when voting in the sheriff’s race. Having spent weeks door-knocking and finding that many residents have not yet voted, she urged voters to carefully consider candidates’ qualifications and potential legal limitations, referencing a Brady-Giglio restriction against one candidate that could affect their ability to testify in court. She expressed her desire to see a Democrat elected as Doña Ana County Sheriff in November and voiced her support for James Frietze, noting that he has strong credentials and the backing of the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Union.
For more information, visit James Frietze’s campaign website.
Films worth seeing at the Fountain Theater
Catharine Walkinshaw is a volunteer for the Fountain Theater, a completely non-profit, volunteer-run theater in old Mesilla. She thanked the group for their support of the theater and recommended two upcoming films:
1. “Steal this Story Please,” a documentary about Amy Goodman, the renowned journalist from the radio show, Democracy Now. It runs from May 30-June 4th.
2. “25 Cats from Qatar,” which will run on June 13 and 14. The filmmaker will be at these showings and there will be a cat adoption event on June 13.
For more information, check out the Fountain Theater at mesillavalleyfilm.org.
Susana Chaparro discloses County audit issues
Doña Ana County Commissioner, District 4, Susana Chaparro addressed the group directly to inform us that the county received 43 audit findings from State Auditor Joseph Maestas. Taking personal responsibility on behalf of the commission, she emphasized that the county is not in crisis but acknowledges the issues are serious and will require months to fully resolve. She assured residents that county leadership — including administrative staff, department heads, and elected officials — is committed to working diligently to address the findings, and encouraged anyone with questions to contact her office through the county website rather than rely on secondhand accounts.
For more information, Susana can be reached at schaparro@donaanacounty.org.
Support for David L. Mooney as write in candidate for House District 38
Anastasia Walhovd spoke in support of David L. Mooney, who could not be at PVA as he was attending a water rights meeting in Hatch. She asked those who live in House District 38, a huge district encompassing Organ, Radium Springs, Hatch, Truth or Consequences all the way to Socorro, to write in candidate David L. Mooney on the Democratic Primary Ballot and then hopefully he will be on the November ballot.
For more information about David and his ideas, check out mooneyfornm.com.
Support for Ruben Reyes for County Assessor
Marcella Reyes spoke in response to Commissioner Chaparro’s remarks about the county’s audit findings, focusing specifically on the finding related to a property reappraisal that has not been conducted since 2008. She endorsed Ruben Reyes as the most qualified candidate to address this issue, citing his hands-on field experience and planning background in reappraisals. She urged anyone who has not yet voted to consider him, expressing confidence that he has both the plan and the expertise to get the county’s reappraisal process back on track.
No email available.
Helpful voter guide supports progressive choices
William Morlan introduced a voter guide based on the League of Women Voters interviews. The guide lists the candidates, along with their top donors, and key issues to help voters make informed voting decisions. To access the guide, he referred the group to a QR code located at the back of the room. Second, he said he won’t be voting for candidates who express pro-corporate stances, support for Project Jupiter, or pro-ICE policies. He urged voters to vote for candidates who align with progressive values.
For more information and to receive a copy of the voter guide, contact William at redheadeagles@gmail.com.
More support for progressive voter guide
Julio Morales, a PhD student at NMSU, spoke in support of the voter guide QR code mentioned by William Morlan, highlighting its interactive features including links to each candidate’s platform and a column listing their top donors with sourced data. He urged voters to examine campaign funding and question whether candidates are truly representing ordinary constituents or the wealthy entities that fund them. He called on progressive voters to support genuinely progressive candidates rather than those beholden to corporate interests.
For more information, you can reach Julio at juliomorales1823@gmail.com
The film industry is growing in Southern New Mexico!
State Senator Jeff Steinborn, also the volunteer board president and co-founder of Film Las Cruces, spoke about the remarkable growth of the film industry in Doña Ana County. He noted that when Film Las Cruces was established, only 2% of the state’s film spending occurred outside of Albuquerque and Santa Fe, but recent data from a state economist shows that Doña Ana County now accounts for 13% of all film spending in New Mexico, with 13 out of 63 films shot statewide filmed there last year. He also announced that a $27 million studio is set to break ground, bolstered by an additional $8 million secured by Chairman Nathan Small during the legislative session. Steinborn urged candidates, incoming county commissioners, and local elected officials to continue supporting the film industry, emphasizing that its success depends on backing from county and city leadership.
For more information, contact Sen. Steinborn at jeff.steinborn@nmlegis.gov.
Recommendations to evaluate candidates
Lynn Moorer shared her personal framework for evaluating candidates after feeling let down by representatives she had previously supported on the City Council, County Commission, and in State House. She emphasized the importance of direct, discerning inquiry through personal contact, forums, and online research rather than relying solely on others’ recommendations. Her criteria include whether a candidate genuinely listens to and empathizes with constituents, demonstrates intelligence and understanding of how government works, has no conflicting financial interests, shows a strong work ethic and attention to detail, and has done independent research on key issues rather than simply deferring to staff or past experience. She also values candidates who respect public transparency laws like IPRA, don’t use low pay as an excuse for being unprepared or unresponsive, focus on concrete accomplishments rather than just connections, and make the effort to personally engage voters on the issues that matter to them.
For more information, you can reach Lynn at lmoorer3045@gmail.com.
Praise for 3 candidates
Peter Goodman, host of Speak Up Las Cruces on 101.5 FM, used his time to praise three women in local politics. He commended Commissioner Susana Chaparro for her transparency in addressing the county’s audit findings, while noting that many of the issues identified by the auditor have roots going back at least ten years, predating her time on the commission. He also expressed strong support for Miceala Lara Cadena, praising her consistent presence and growth as a legislator. Finally, he endorsed Daisy Maldonado as a candidate he believes would make an excellent county commissioner.
For more information, Peter can be reached at peter@pgoodmanphotos.com.
James Frietze, running for Doña Ana County Sheriff
James Frietze, a candidate for Doña Ana County Sheriff, announced he has received an endorsement from the Sheriff’s Department union and invited attendees to a community event on May 30th at Big Star Hardware, 4501 N. Valley Dr., from 10am-2pm. He spoke about his experience attending the recent county audit meeting and emphasized his track record of solving difficult problems, citing his selection by the state police chief to lead the complex merger of the Motor Transportation Division into the New Mexico State Police in the Las Cruces district. He also illustrated his hands-on leadership style by describing how he personally spent two hours with a film producer for the movie “The Mule” to map out a travel route and coordinate with officers along the way, rather than simply handing off a phone number, concluding that his approach has always been about serving people directly.
For more information, check out his website or Facebook page: JamesFrietzeforSheriff
Rep. Nathan Small touts accomplishments (also: remember the wolf howl?)
Nathan Small, candidate for reelection to House District 36, reflected on his long history with the Progressive Voter Alliance and highlighted an extensive record of progressive achievements at both the city and state level. He pointed to landmark accomplishments including the creation of the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument, growing New Mexico’s renewable electricity share from 20% to 67% through the Energy Transition Act, and implementing values-based budgeting as chair of the Appropriations Committee. He also noted that New Mexico was the only state to step in and offset federal cuts to healthcare, food benefits, and university funding under the Trump administration, while also achieving universal free childcare, debt-free higher education, a 17% growth in the state health exchange, $1 billion for water, and a major housing package. He closed by expressing respect for all candidates in the room and encouraging the group to foster a welcoming and challenging environment rather than one that excludes differing viewpoints.
For more information, you can reach Nathan at nathanpsmall36@gmail.com
Support for Amanda Lopez Askin for Secretary of State
Gayle Eads spoke on behalf of Amanda Lopez Askin, the current Doña Ana County Clerk who is running statewide for Secretary of State, urging supporters to act quickly since a loss in this primary would mean she won’t appear on the November ballot. She highlighted Lopez Askin’s track record of successfully defending New Mexico’s voting system against repeated accusations of voter fraud and ballot irregularities. Gayle called on attendees to leverage their personal networks across the state — reaching contacts in places like Farmington or Roswell — via social media and email to boost name recognition for both Amanda Lopez Askin and Matthew McQueen, a candidate for Land Commissioner, since both are running statewide from smaller regional bases.
For more information, Gayle can be reached at gayle.s.eads@gmail.com.
Report from Rep. Doreen Gallegos
Adam Sommers, legislative aide to Representative Doreen Gallegos, spoke on her behalf to update the group on her current work. He noted that Representative Gallegos regrets being unable to attend and is currently active in the interim committee season, chairing the Economic and Rural Development and Policy Committee and serving on the Revenue Stabilization and Tax Policy Committee and Legislative Council. Adam encouraged District 53 constituents to reach out to him directly for assistance accessing state or local resources, at adam.sommers@nmlegis.gov.
Support for several candidates
Master of Social Work student Spencer Taylor, expressed support for several candidates including Micaela Lara Cadena, Daisy Maldonado, and particularly Lori Martinez, who is running for state representative in District 37. He praised Martinez’s community-oriented approach, highlighting her focus on healthcare, paid leave, and education, and noted her significant advocacy work in support of universal childcare in New Mexico. He encouraged the group to take a close look at her platform and her proactive rather than reactive approach to policy.
For more information, you can reach Spencer at sirspence7@yahoo.com.
Snooze, you lose
Pat Banks, speaking as a private citizen but affiliated with the Deb Haaland campaign, urged us to combat voter complacency, warning that Democrats got comfortable in both 2016 and 2024 and paid the price. Pat called on everyone to volunteer, reach out to family and friends, and encourage eligible voters to turn out, particularly in Congressional District 2, which voted for Trump despite also supporting Democrat Gabe Vasquez on split ballots. Pat made a strong pitch for Haaland as the most qualified candidate in the governor’s race, citing her experience managing 70,000 workers and an $18 billion budget as U.S. Secretary of the Interior, and noted that Haaland would be appearing at Veterans Park on Sunday at 12 p.m.
Pat provided this link for more information about Deb Haaland’s campaign.
Deb Haaland visited Las Cruces on Sunday
Jay Choate, also with the Haaland campaign, gave a brief remarks seconding Pat Banks’ message and encouraging everyone to attend the Sunday rally at Veterans Park at noon. He emphasized bringing friends, family, and especially younger people like grandchildren, noting that personal engagement is how the next generation learns they can make a difference in the political process.
For more information, Jay can be reached at jay@debhaaland.com.
Ruben Reyes, running for County Assessor
Ruben Reyes made a case for his candidacy for Doña Ana County Assessor by emphasizing his unmatched credentials, including 30 years of experience in the assessor’s office, GIS certification, certification as a New Mexico appraiser through the International Association of Assessing Officers, and degrees from both NMSU and Western New Mexico University. He contrasted himself with elected officials who lack relevant qualifications, arguing that experience and education in the specific field should matter to voters. He pledged to run a transparent, fair, and open-door office, promising to personally engage with any constituent who has questions. He asked for our vote in the June 2nd primary and invited attendees to a meet-the-candidate event at Les Combs on Saturday from 5 to 7 p.m.
For more information, Ruben can be reached at rubenreyes22@yahoo.com.
In defense of vulnerable communities
Chrystian Gonzalez, running for magistrate court judge, spoke about a pro bono legal services committee he co-founded three years ago with roughly two dozen attorneys from the Third Judicial District, which continues to operate despite dwindling participation. He announced a free legal clinic on Saturday, May 30th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Third Judicial District Courthouse, where about 12 attorneys were available to help community members with a wide range of legal questions at no cost. He acknowledged that attendance at recent clinics has dropped, attributing it to fear in the community stemming from ICE activity, and reassured people that the courthouse will have security and that they should not be afraid to attend. He encouraged attendees to spread the word, share flyers, and noted that planning is already underway for an August clinic.
For more information, visit Chrystian’s website.
Grateful for all the support
Isabel Jerabek, candidate for Third Judicial District Judge, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the group for their support, votes, and nominating signatures. She highlighted nearly 21 years as a local attorney in Doña Ana County and over 16 years as a hearing officer at the Third Judicial District Court, making her case that her deep experience in family law — the specific focus of this judgeship — makes her uniquely suited for the position. She closed by simply asking for the community’s continued support, framing the race as an opportunity to keep doing the work she loves for her home community.
For more information, Isabel can be reached at isabeljerabek4judge@gmail.com.
Keep local talent in our institutions
Chris Valenzuela, a long-serving board member of SkillsUSA — the second largest student organization in the nation — spoke about the organization’s criminal justice program in Doña Ana County, which has multiple chapters at local high schools and colleges that compete statewide, win gold medals, and advance to nationals. He noted that this year’s competitors are heading to Atlanta in two weeks, including Santa Teresa High School students competing in felony and traffic stop events. His main concern is that talented local criminal justice students are being recruited away by large out-of-state departments, and he urged sheriff candidates to consider offering internships to SkillsUSA members as a way to retain homegrown talent within Doña Ana County agencies. He directed attendees to skillsusa.org/New Mexico for more information.
For more information, Chris can be reached at chrisval66@yahoo.com.
Welcome back the life of the Rio Grande
Rene Romo announced that the Bureau of Reclamation was going to release water back into the Rio Grande on Friday, and invited the community to gather at the Shalem Colony Bridge on Saturday around 2 p.m. to witness the water’s arrival — acknowledging the timing is approximate and that some waiting should be expected. He framed the event as more than just a spectacle, describing it as a moment for collective reflection on the critical importance of water management in New Mexico, particularly as the region faces two decades of drought and the long-term threats of climate change. Most of all, he presented it as a community gathering to honor the Rio Grande and the life it sustains throughout the region.
For more information, Rene can be reached at rene.m.romo@gmail.com.
District 37 heats up
Shaharazad Booth, a former district attorney candidate, delivered a forceful endorsement of Tilli Villalobos for the District 37 House seat, driven by two grievances against Villalobos’s opponent. First, she condemned a mailer paid for by the opponent that claimed Villalobos had been deporting people while in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, directly contradicting her own experience working alongside Villalobos, who she says quit that office when Trump took over and actually helped her get a wrongful deportation case dismissed. Second, she called out the hypocrisy of the incumbent representative warning the audience against supporters of Project Jupiter, while a published statement bearing the representative’s own name had previously praised the data center project as a source of good jobs and quality infrastructure for the community. Shaharazad urged attendees not to be swayed by what she characterized as smears and lies, and affirmed that Villalobos has no ties to Project Jupiter despite the accusations.
For more information, Shaharazad can be reached at shaharazad.booth@gmail.com.
Resist EPE rate increase
Steve Fischman, a former Public Regulation Commission commissioner, announced he is planning to formally intervene in El Paso Electric’s current rate case, warning that the utility is seeking a 70% base rate increase that would cost the average residential customer roughly $500 a year. Drawing on his regulatory experience, he argued that utility commissions nationwide have long been awarding profit margins twice as large as what the law and Supreme Court rulings actually permit, and that allowing a rate base increase on top of that would compound the overcharging. He urged us to pressure our legislators to act, stating that he has specific legislative proposals in the works, and closed with a pointed message to hold elected officials accountable and refuse to accept being “ripped off.”
For more information, Steve can be reached at stephen.fischmann@gmail.com.
Final canvassing for District 37
Pat Aguirre made a closing pitch for Lori Martinez in the hotly contested House District 37 race, emphasizing that door-knocking conversations with voters consistently show they want real, proven experience — something she argues Martinez delivers. She highlighted Martinez’s track record since 2018 working through the nonprofit Ngage, including successfully advocating for the early childhood constitutional amendment passed in 2022, advancing a wage and career ladder for early childhood educators, pushing for paid family medical leave, and contributing to the legislature’s 2025 approval of a $1 billion behavioral health fund. Pat stressed that Lori works through partnerships and coalitions and doesn’t just promise what she will do — she points to what she has already done. She invited attendees to join a final canvassing push Saturday at Sagecrest Park at 501 Roadrunner, with a signup sheet available at the back of the room.
For more information, Pat can be reached at patricia.ann.aguirre@gmail.com.
Vanessa Ordoñez, running for Doña Ana County Sheriff
Vanessa Ordoñez addressed what she described as disparaging remarks and misinformation from a rival campaign, defending her qualifications and professional credibility. She stated that she is a certified law enforcement officer in New Mexico with credentials in good standing, has served as a police chief, testified in court cases, and currently holds a security clearance through the U.S. military. Vanessa also highlighted her recent completion of a 10-month law enforcement executive leadership program attended by police chiefs, sheriffs, and senior officers from across New Mexico. She encouraged community members to communicate directly with her if they have questions or concerns, emphasizing the importance of supporting one another and relying on accurate information during the campaign. For more information, contact Vanessa at VanessaForSheriff@gmail.com.
NMSU College Democrats on the rise
Trenton White, a sophomore at NMSU and newly elected vice president of the recharged NMSU College Democrats, introduced himself to the group as a new face and Roswell native still finding his footing in Las Cruces. Without endorsing any specific candidate, he echoed the meeting’s recurring themes by urging the group to vote for progressive candidates who oppose Project Jupiter, reject ICE enforcement, and prioritize protecting the planet. He extended an open invitation to candidates who want to connect with the College Democrats and reach the youth vote at NMSU.
For more information, Trenton can be reached at 2223tmw@gmail.com.
Write-In Candidate for County Commission, District 3
Julia T. Brown introduced herself as a write-in candidate for Doña Ana County Commissioner District 3, bringing extensive experience across military service, corporate America, and government roles including former Doña Ana County Manager, former City Manager of Sunland Park, and most recently a state economic development representative serving seven southwest New Mexico counties. She resigned from that position as required by state law to pursue this candidacy, and declared she is the most qualified candidate in the race. Her priorities, shaped by community focus groups, include enhanced economic development, improved law enforcement, and increased public-private partnerships to create good-paying jobs for county residents. She directed attendees to JuliaTBrown.com for more details and asked registered Democrats in District 3 to sign her nominating petition.
For more information, Julia T. Brown can be reached at jtboakland@yahoo.com.
No group will ever buy my values
Tilli Villalobos, candidate for New Mexico House of Representatives, District 37, spoke about her personal integrity in response to adverse campaign ads; she adamantly said that no amount of money by donors would buy her values or her voice. Tilli highlighted this by sharing that she voluntarily left her position at the U.S. Attorney’s Office with just one year remaining before $250,000 in student loans would have been forgiven, because she refused to remain under the Trump administration and compromise her values. You can visit Tilli’s website here.
For more information, Tilli can be reached at tillivillalobos@gmail.com.
Biggest supporter of Vanessa Ordoñez!
John Ordoñez spoke in support of his wife, Vanessa Ordoñez, expressing strong personal and campaign support for her run for Doña Ana County Sheriff. He described their experience campaigning together, including door-to-door outreach and meeting community members. He encouraged voters who have not yet decided to research all candidates carefully and make informed choices based on who they believe is best suited for the sheriff’s office. He thanked supporters and acknowledged those who have already voted for his wife.
For more information, contact John at jao7_3@Yahoo.com.
PVA Happens Again:
Thursday, June 25, 7pm
Munson Center, Las Cruces
The meeting will be followed by our annual party!