New Mexico Sun

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Building New Mexico’s Future: Ken Miyagishima’s Vision for a Stronger New Mexico
Profiles

New Mexico faces challenges—from crumbling infrastructure on Native lands and a water shortage to rising housing costs and lagging economic development.

Kristina Fisher on Bridging Policy Gaps and Bringing Common Sense to New Mexico’s Capitol
Profiles

With overstretched legislators, difficult budget processes, and rising environmental and infrastructure challenges, at least one New Mexico group says the state needs policy solutions that are clear-eyed, practical, and rooted in community values.

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Katie Gutierrez on Why New Mexico’s Economic Policy Must Work for Families, Not Just Spreadsheets
Profiles

New Mexico is experiencing record surpluses and rising oil and gas revenues, which present state leaders with a test.


Building a New Political Path: Bob Perls and the Forward Party’s Mission in New Mexico
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As polarization and party loyalty increasingly dominate American politics, many voters are looking for alternatives beyond the traditional Democratic and Republican duopoly.


Climbing the Education Mountain: Mandi Torrez on New Mexico's Reform Efforts
Profiles

New Mexico’s education system has long ranked near the bottom nationally in student achievement, with chronic challenges in literacy, teacher recruitment, and rural access.


Jeff Apodaca is Rooted in History, but Focused on the Future of New Mexico
Profiles

Jeff Apodaca is rooted in New Mexico. The son of former Governor Jerry Apodaca, he was a high school football state champion and grew up immersed in the state’s political and cultural fabric.


A Better Way of Living Executive Director: ‘We pride ourselves on going the extra mile to assist people with disabilities'
Profiles

Jon Noel, executive director of A Better Way of Living (ABWL), a nonprofit organization in Albuquerque that assists individuals with developmental delays, emphasized the organization's commitment to providing more than basic support for people...


Building a Community of Courage: Randy Mascorella’s Mission with Special Olympics New Mexico
Profiles

The Special Olympics is a global movement that empowers individuals with intellectual disabilities through the transformative power of sport.


‘Glad this bill didn't pass’: Parent activist Petersen silenced during SB552 ’Protection of School Library Materials Act’ debate
Profiles

In a twist of irony, Micayle Petersen—an advocate for children's protection and free speech—says she was silenced during a public hearing on Senate Bill 552, legislation that claimed to champion those very principles. SB552, titled the “Protection of School Library Materials Act,” purportedly aimed to safeguard free expression and shield school staff from retaliation.


A Champion for Freedom: Paul Gessing’s Mission to Transform New Mexico
Profiles

In the heart of Albuquerque, Paul Gessing is at the helm of a movement rooted in liberty, accountability, and hope for New Mexico's future.


Jean Bernstein on Building Flying Star and Navigating New Mexico’s Business Climate
Profiles

Jean Bernstein, co-founder of the beloved Flying Star Café chain in Albuquerque, speaks with pride about her journey from disillusioned teacher to successful restaurateur.


Fighting for the Forgotten: Commander Kyle Hartsock’s and Shelley Repp’s Mission to Protect Albuquerque’s Most Vulnerable
Profiles

Commander Kyle Hartsock, a 21-year veteran of New Mexico law enforcement, currently serves with the Criminal Investigations Division of the Albuquerque Police Department.


Don and Damara Andrade Manage Pushback in Stand for New Mexico’s Children
Profiles

Don and Damara Andrade are married, parents, and self-described Christian apologists, a branch of Christian theology that defends Christianity.


Technology, education and faith: Tim Draelos says these are key ingredients for a greater New Mexico
Profiles

A theme has developed in New Mexico. Outsiders talk about the state’s beauty and potential, and wonder why it is not an economic powerhouse to rival neighboring states. Tim Draelos, a New Mexico native and retired engineer, carries the same thoughts.


Securing New Mexico: Chris Sweetin’s Mission to Protect and Serve
Profiles

Christopher J. Sweetin is no stranger to service and leadership. He is a retired U.S. Air Force veteran with 20 years of experience, and is now the CEO and co-founder of the Triskelion Group of New Mexico, overseeing 3D Security Services, 3D Security Training Solutions, and 3D Security Investigative Services. The Small Business Administration named him New Mexico’s Small Business Person of the Year in 2024. He is also the founding member and president of the New Mexico Professional Security Association. His journey from military service to private security is driven by a commitment to public safety and a belief that meaningful change starts at the local level.


Fighting for Reform: Senator Crystal Brantley’s Push for Change in New Mexico
Profiles

Senator Crystal Brantley represents New Mexico’s District 35, the largest in the state, covering seven counties in the southwest corner. Elected in 2020 as the first Republican and first female to hold the office, Brantley credits her success to voters dissatisfied with the state’s approach to border security.


Rising from Adversity: Representative Elaine Cortez’s Mission for New Mexico
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Dr. Elaine Cortez represents New Mexico District 62 and is no stranger to hardship. She grew up in a tough neighborhood, and witnessed gang violence, substance abuse, and crime firsthand.


Senator Pat Boone, a Rancher’s Journey to Public Service
Profiles

Senator Pat Boone, a freshman legislator from southeastern New Mexico, has spent a lifetime in public service before stepping into his role at the state roundhouse.


How Gail Armstrong Navigates Leadership, Policy and her Fight for New Mexico
Profiles

Gail Armstrong has represented District 49 in the New Mexico Legislature for nearly a decade. Appointed in 2017 by Governor Susana Martinez, Armstrong’s journey into politics began when former Speaker of the House Don Tripp encouraged her to run for office. Initially hesitant, she eventually agreed, driven by her passion for solving problems.


New Mexico State Senator Bill Sharer on Politics, Energy, and Public Safety
Profiles

Senator Bill Sharer, representing District 1 in San Juan County, began his journey into politics as a child, when he watched his mother report on legislative affairs as a journalist for the Albuquerque Journal. That early exposure to governance and policy shaped his interest in public service, eventually leading him to the state legislature. Living in Farmington, he is well-informed about the challenges and opportunities in northern New Mexico, particularly in matters of energy policy and economic development.