Marshall Martinez - Executive Director | Equality New Mexico
Equality New Mexico has announced its endorsements for the 2025 election cycle, highlighting candidates it believes will advocate for LGBTQ rights and values in New Mexico. The organization describes its endorsement process as straightforward: candidates apply, participate in interviews, and are then reviewed by an independent committee, which makes recommendations to the Board of Directors. The Board makes final decisions with a unanimous vote.
When considering endorsements, Equality New Mexico emphasizes that it seeks candidates who prioritize advocacy for the LGBTQ community and value feedback from those they aim to represent. The organization notes that a candidate’s history of supporting Queer and Trans New Mexicans is key. For newcomers to politics, their potential is evaluated based on their positions on issues affecting LGBTQ residents.
Equality New Mexico states that “New Mexico policy and advocacy is rooted in our shared morals of freedom, equality, dignity, and compassion. If a candidate shows that they align with those values, and proves it through their work, it’s likely that we’ll support them.”
This year’s endorsements cover various races across the state, including city council elections in rural areas, mayoral races in Las Cruces—where four candidates have been highlighted as champions of LGBTQ causes—and support for candidates in Santa Fe and Albuquerque.
The organization acknowledges differences within the community regarding endorsement choices but maintains its commitment to selecting candidates based on demonstrated dedication to Queer and Trans liberation. It encourages voters to make their own informed choices at the polls.
In discussing its decision-making process for the Albuquerque mayoral race, Equality New Mexico stated: “Our decision to endorse Alex Uballez, and not Tim Keller for Albuquerque Mayor is purely based on action and commitment. While we applaud the work that Keller has done for Albuquerque, we also must acknowledge the fact that, time and time again, he has failed to listen to LGBTQ New Mexicans when making decisions that impact them. Queer and Trans New Mexicans know what they need, and Keller’s decisions have not reflected those needs, making him ineligible for an endorsement from Equality New Mexico.”
Equality New Mexico concludes by reaffirming its intention to hold all elected officials accountable on policies impacting Queer and Trans people regardless of election outcomes.
