Stefani Lord, a House Representative from New Mexico, emphasized the need for empathetic and humble leadership in the state, criticizing what she described as political arrogance. She called for genuine representation in a statement made on X.
"Enough Arrogance: New Mexico Deserves Better," said Lord, New Mexico State Representative for 22nd District (R). "Two candidates, Sen. Harold Pope and State Land Commissioner Stephanie Garcia Richard, are doubling down on arrogance, dismissiveness, and disdain for everyday New Mexicans. And regardless of party, that's unacceptable. We Deserve Leaders Who: Listen, not lecture Serve, not score political points Show humility, not hubris. New Mexico deserves leaders with empathy and integrity, not entitlement."
According to the Santa Fe New Mexican, the race for New Mexico's lieutenant governor has been fraught with controversies involving negative campaign tactics, personal attacks, and disputes over candidate transparency. These issues have drawn criticism from both voters and civic groups, raising concerns about the tone and ethical standards expected from candidates seeking statewide office.
A 2024 poll conducted by the Albuquerque Journal indicates that most New Mexico voters consider integrity, empathy, and humility essential traits in state leadership. The poll found that 78% of respondents identified integrity as very important, while 65% cited empathy and 61% highlighted humility when evaluating candidates for office.
Recent polling by SurveyUSA shows Harold Pope and Stephanie Garcia Richard leading in approval ratings with 48% and 52%, respectively. They are ahead of other leading candidates in the 2024 New Mexico lieutenant governor race, who are polling between 39% and 44%.
Lord has been representing District 22 in the New Mexico House of Representatives since 2021. According to Ballotpedia and the New Mexico Legislature, she is known for advocating public safety, gun rights, and regulatory reform while supporting conservative positions on crime and government overreach.
