Danny Bernal Jr. might be young, but he has plenty of energy that he hopes to use as New Mexico’s youngest state representative.
Bernal, 23, serves as Belen Mayor Pro Tem, a position he gained after being selected as the youngest city councilor at age 21, according to a KRQE report. A Democrat, Bernal is looking to represent Valencia County as a state representative for District 7. The primary election is June 7 and if selected Bernal would be the youngest state representative.
“Some people won’t like that I am too young, that’s okay as long as they are willing to sit down and talk with me and I can hear their values and I can hear what their concerns then maybe I can sway them to my side,” Bernal told KRQE.
Bernal grew up just south of Belen. His inspiration to become a politician stems from the memory of his uncle, who was murdered three years ago, according to KRQE. Bernal’s mission is to seek justice for not only the people of Valencia County but residents all across the state. Among his goals is to change laws in the justice system to keep violent offenders behind bars.
“My inspiration comes from me not seeing things getting done in my home, in Valencia County, and in New Mexico,” Bernal said. “I want these things to get done so if it takes me to get involved, if it takes me to take the initiative and take the initiative to lead our people to get it done then I’ll do it.”
Ensuring schools are properly funded and improving roads and the state’s infrastructure are other priorities on Bernal’s agenda.