Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has directed that all flags in New Mexico be flown at half-staff to honor former state senator John Arthur Smith, who died on October 7. The flags will remain lowered from sunrise on October 18 until sundown on October 21.

Smith represented District 35, which includes Dona Ana, Hidalgo, Luna, and Sierra Counties, from 1989 until his retirement in 2020. During his tenure as the chairman of the New Mexico Senate Finance Committee, he was recognized for his prudent management of the state's fiscal policy and earned respect across political lines.

He advocated for investments in healthcare and education, particularly in Deming, where he worked towards improving hospitals and schools. Smith also contributed significantly to the establishment of the Early Childhood Education and Care Department trust fund, promoting universal childcare in New Mexico.

“Senator John Arthur Smith’s dedication to our state, his financial expertise, and his commitment to improving the lives of New Mexicans will leave a lasting legacy,” said Lujan Grisham. “It is fitting to honor his life of public service through this period of mourning.”