Meet Our Members
Get to know the legislators working every day to strengthen our communities. Explore each profile to learn more about their backgrounds, passions, and the issues they champion.
Select your member
Michelle Paulene Abeyta
District: 69
County: Bernalillo, McKinley, Valencia, San Juan, Socorro & Cibola
Michelle Paulene Abeyta represents House District 69, covering rural and tribal areas of Bernalillo, Cibola, McKinley, San Juan, Socorro, and Valencia counties. A member of Navajo Nation, Rep. Abeyta hails from To’hajiilee, where she lives with her husband and children. A legal practitioner by trade, she holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Native American Studies and Communication from University of New Mexico and a law degree from the University of Arizona.
Although in her first term, Paulene has been dedicated to community service for years, serving on numerous boards including her local health and school boards, and the NNABA. Already a leader on CYFD reform, child well-being, and helping families get ahead, she’s sponsored bills to clean contaminated waste, allow students to wear tribal regalia at graduations, and creating the Turquoise Alert for missing indigenous individuals. She sits on the House Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources Committee and Judiciary Committee.
Marianna Anaya
Marianna Anaya represents House District 18 which includes UNM, Nob Hill and surrounding areas. Born and raised in Albuquerque, Mariana attended Valley High School, earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas then studied Race and Ethnic Studies at UCLA. Soon after, she returned home to Albuquerque and began her prolific career in community organizing and advocacy.
Before starting her own advocacy firm, Marianna was a Field Representative for Congresswoman Michelle Lujan Grisham and an organizer for the Albuquerque Teachers Federation. Even before joining the legislature, Marianna’s advocacy played a role in landmark legislation like repealing New Mexico’s abortion ban and expanding the NM Human Rights Act. Within her first term, she’s become a leading voice on policies at the intersection of health and justice, workforce and workers rights and corporate accountability. She sits on the Health and Human Services and Labor, Veterans’ and Military Affairs Committees.
District: 18
County: Bernalillo
Janelle Anyanonu
Representative Janelle Anyanonu represents House District 19, a diverse area of Albuquerque which includes the International District and East Nob Hill neighborhoods. The daughter of a Nigerian immigrant, and raised in Albuquerque, Janelle attended Manzano High School and earned her bachelor's degree from Wayland Baptist University. After graduating, Janelle began volunteering for local Democratic candidates and causes at the grassroots, fueling her passion for community involvement.
Serving in the legislature since 2023, Janelle has been key in some of New Mexico’s most impactful, equitable legislation including the Reproductive and Gender-Affirming Care Act and increasing the minimum wage. Janelle is focused on community safety, economic opportunity and improving quality of life in her district. Janelle is Vice Chair of the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee and also sits on the Government, Elections, and Indian Affairs Committee.
District: 19
County: Bernalillo
Cynthia Borrego
Cynthia Borrego represents House District 17 in northwest Albuquerque. She earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degree in public administration from the University of New Mexico. A native New Mexican, Cynthia has a distinguished career in public service, having spent nearly three decades as a city planner for Albuquerque and leading the Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency.
Cynthia served on the Albuquerque Metropolitan Arroyo Flood Control Authority (AMAFCA) from 2015 to 2021 and on the Albuquerque City Council from 2017 to 2021, and was even City Council president for part of that time. Cynthia’s service in the legislature focuses on improving public safety, economic development and strengthening cradle to career education. Serving in the House since 2023, Cynthia serves on the Energy, Environment, & Natural Resources and Taxation and Revenue Committees.
District: 17
County: Bernalillo
Micaela Lara Cadena
Micaela Lara Cadena represents House District 13 in Doña Ana County including the historic Mesilla district. A generational Chicana with deep roots in the Mesilla Valley, Micaela was raised in the district she represents. After graduating from Las Cruces High School, she earned her bachelor’s degree in International Studies from Trinity College and a master’s degree in regional planning from UNM.
Micaela worked at the New Mexico Corrections Department as Bureau Chief of Recidivism Reduction developing better trauma and gender-informed policies in the prison system. Currently, Micaela works as the Research Director for Young Women United, a local non-profit that works on women and family-focused policies. Micaela has served in the House since 2019 and is a leading voice in equitable tax policy, reproductive freedom and fair criminal justice. She is Vice Chair of the Taxation and Revenue Committee and also sits on the Agriculture, Acequias and Water Resources Committee.
District: 33
County: Doña Ana
Kathleen Cates
Kathleen Cates represents House District 44, where she has lived for over 25 years which includes the Village of Corrales and parts of Rio Rancho and Albuquerque’s westside. Kathleen attended UNM for a Master’s of Public Administration and served as CEO of two non-profits and a volunteer for the New Mexico Developmental Disabilities Council, inspiring Kathleen to advocate for marginalized and underserved communities in elected office.
Kathleen Cates is finishing her second term in the state house of Representatives. As a small business owner, realtor, and parent of children who went through public schools, she’s been deeply involved with her community for years. In the legislature, Kathleen champions affordable housing, healthcare access, civil rights, and expanding clean energy infrastructure. Kathleen is the Vice Chair of the House Agriculture & Water Resources Committee and also sits on the Health and Human Services Committee.
District: 44
County: Bernalillo & Sandoval
Christine Chandler
Christine Chandler represents House District 43, covering Los Alamos and parts of Sandoval and Santa Fe Counties. Christine holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Smith College, a Juris Doctor from Boston College, and a Master’s of Laws in International Law & Comparative Law from Georgetown University. Christine has lived in New Mexico for over three decades with her husband, George, and has a long record of community service in Los Alamos.
Christine retired as an attorney of the Los Alamos National Laboratory and was a local probate judge and Los Alamos County councilor. Since joining the House in 2019, she's been one of the most proactive members, sponsoring many of the most high profile bills and leading floor debates. She’s been a leader on issues like sick leave for workers, civil rights, public safety, medical malpractice reform, and criminal justice. She is Chair of the House Judiciary Committee and also sits on the Taxation and Revenue Committee.
District: 43
County: Los Alamos, Sandoval & Santa Fe
Eleanor Chávez
Eleanor Chavez represents House District 26, on Albuquerque’s Westside. Eleanor has lived in Westgate since 1985, where she raised her four children. Eleanor earned a Bachelor’s Degree and a Master of Social Work from the University of Washington. When she returned to New Mexico, she spent decades as a Union leader organizing and representing workers.
Eleanor Chavez followed in the steps of her great-great-grandfather Eugenio B. Gallegos, who served in the Territorial House of Representatives and the Senate when New Mexico became a state in 1912. Eleanor previously served in the House from 2009 to 2012 and on the New Mexico Public Education Commission from 2015 to 2017. Eleanor is committed to reducing healthcare costs, improving public education, increasing affordable housing, and supporting working families. Eleanor is the Vice Chair of the House Labor, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee. She also sits on the Health and Human Services Committee.
District: 26
County: Bernalillo
Art De La Cruz
Art De La Cruz serves House District 12, the historic and culturally rich Albuquerque South Valley where he lives with his family. A lifelong Albuquerque native, he earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of New Mexico and a Master of Science in Management and Human Relations from the University of Phoenix.
De La Cruz dedicated 40 years to the Public Employees Retirement Association of New Mexico and also ran a small business. He previously served as a Bernalillo County Commissioner and as director of the County Parks & Recreation Department. Originally appointed to fill vacancies in the House in September 2020 and again in February 2022, he was elected in 2023 and in 2025 to the current term. Art is the Chair of the House Transportation, Public Works & Capital Improvements Committee and a member of the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee.
District: 12
County: Bernalillo
Meredith A. Dixon
District: 20
County: Bernalillo
Meredith Dixon represents House District 20, covering parts of eastern Albuquerque and the East Mountains where she lives with her husband and their two daughters. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Global Policy Studies from Chatham College and a Master’s degree in International Political Economy from the University of Pittsburgh. Meredith moved to New Mexico and got involved in her community and politics right away. She worked on the campaigns of Governor Bill Richardson and US Senator Tom Udall. From 2015-2021, she managed Blue Advantage Partners, a political consulting and fundraising firm.
Meredith has been a member of the House since 2021. In the legislature, she serves as the Vice Chair of the House Appropriations & Finance Committee and is also a member of the House Energy, Environment & Natural Resources Committee. During the interim, she is a member of the Legislative Finance Committee.
Joanne J. Ferrary
District: 37
County: Doña Ana
Joanne Ferrary represents House District 37 in the heart of Las Cruces where she lives with her husband. Born in Ohio and raised in New Mexico, Joanne earned both her Bachelor’s and Master of Business Administration degrees from New Mexico State University while raising two children as a single mother.
Joanne served on the Las Cruces Planning and Zoning Commission and worked for the New Mexico Department of Transportation before entering politics. She was also highly involved with organizations like Mothers Against Drunk Driving and the New Mexico Make-A-Wish Foundation. She has served in the House since 2017. In the legislature, Ferrary chairs the House Consumer & Public Affairs Committee and also serves on the Health & Human Services Committee. Her focus in the legislature is expanding healthcare access, advocating for women's rights, and investing in public education.
Doreen Y. Gallegos
District: 52
County: Doña Ana
Doreen Gallegos represents House District 52, serving neighborhoods of south Las Cruces and agricultural communities along I-10 heading south toward the Texas border, including Mesquite, Vado, Berino, and Anthony. A proud New Mexico native with roots in her community, she holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in social work from New Mexico State University and is the Executive Director of Mesilla Valley CASA, advocating for children in foster care.
Doreen has served in the House since 2013 where she has been a leading voice for strengthening families, expanding healthcare access, and investing in small businesses and education. She is the Chair of the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee and also sits on the Taxation and Revenues and Rules and Order of Business Committees.
Martha Garcia
District: 6
County: Cibola & McKinley
Martha Garcia represents House District 6, which includes communities in Cibola and McKinley counties such as parts of Grants, Zuni Pueblo, and parts of the Navajo Nation. A proud member of the Diné Nation, Martha is from Pine Hill, where she continues to live and serve to this day. Before joining the legislature, she served as President of the Ramah Navajo Chapter, Vice Chair of the Northwest New Mexico Council of Governments, and a Cibola County Commissioner.
The newest member of our caucus, Martha was appointed in 2025 by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. Martha’s priorities include strengthening educational opportunities, advancing tribal sovereignty, and improving infrastructure and economic opportunity for rural and tribal communities – continuing her lifelong commitment to empowering the families and voices of western New Mexico. Martha sits on the House Education and the Rural Development, Land Grants, and Cultural Affairs Committees.
Miguel P. García
District: 14
County: Bernalillo
Miguel García represents House District 14, which includes parts of Downtown Albuquerque, the historic Barelas neighborhood, South Valley, and Westgate neighborhoods. The longest serving member of the House, Miguel has proudly represented these areas known for their rich cultural heritage, strong community ties, and its diverse population since 1997. A multigenerational New Mexico native, Miguel earned a Bachelor’s degree from Eastern New Mexico University and a Master’s degree from the University of New Mexico. Before entering politics, he worked as a real estate broker and a Spanish teacher in Albuquerque Public Schools, where gained valuable firsthand experience in multicultural classroom education.
Throughout his time in the House, Miguel has been a staunch advocate for New Mexico’s traditional agricultural communities, environmental protection, education, and labor rights. He sits on the House Labor, Veterans’ and Military Affairs and the House Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committees.
Joy Garratt
District: 29
County: Bernalillo
Joy Garratt represents House District 29 which includes Northwest Albuquerque working class family neighborhoods, including Ventana Ranch and Paradise Hills. Joy lives in District 29 with her husband and their son. Born in Long Beach, California, Joy earned a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies from Excelsior College and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from the University of New Mexico. Joy has classroom experience as a teacher not just across the US, but across the world, having taught English in South Korea.
Joy’s extensive career in the classroom has made her one of the leading voices on education since she joined the House in 2019. In addition to education, Joy has been a strong advocate for public safety, small businesses, and infrastructure. She currently serves as Vice Chair of both the House Education Committee and Rules Committees, and also sits on the House Appropriation and Finance Committee.
Anita Gonzales
District: 20
County: San Miguel & Torrance
Anita Gonzales represents House District 70, a vast district covering large areas of San Miguel and Torrance counties, where her family has lived for generations. Anita lives in Las Vegas with her son. She holds both a Bachelors degree and a Master of Business Administration from New Mexico Highlands University.
She has over 20 years of experience advocating for underrepresented students in STEM fields through her role as Deputy Director of Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement at NM MESA, Inc. Anita has been deeply involved in her community, volunteering with the San Miguel County Federation of Democratic Women, the Sierra Club, and the local Rotary Club. Although in her first term, Anita has been instrumental in securing relief for constituents impacted by devastating wildfires. She’s also committed to promoting STEM education, water conservation, rural healthcare, local infrastructure, and land grant-Merced and acequia communities. She sits on the House Education and Rural Development, Land Grants, and Cultural Affairs Committees.
Yanira Gurrola
District: 16
County: Bernalillo
Representative Yanira Gurrola V. represents District 16, covering a diverse district of Albuquerque’s westside. Born in Chihuahua, Mexico, Yanira has lived in this district for more than 17 years. Originally an Electronic Industrial engineer, Yanira earned a master’s degree in curriculum and instructional leadership from the College of Santa Fe and became an educator, teaching math for most of her classroom experience.
Now, Yanira is an advocate and expert of dual language education, which preserves culture and improves educational outcomes. In the legislature, her expertise is valuable in crafting policy on the House Education committee. She also sits on the House Energy, Environment, and Natural Resources Committee. She is currently in her second term, having served in the House since 2023.
Joseph Franklin Hernandez
District: 4
County: San Juan
Joseph Hernandez represents House District 4, containing the northwest corner of New Mexico and much of the Navajo Nation. As a member of the Navajo Nation born and raised in Shiprock, Joseph is proud to represent his community in the House where he advocates for issues that often get less attention than they deserve. Joseph has been a community organizer for years, building support for clean energy initiatives and educating New Mexicans about New Mexico’s as a clean energy economic powerhouse.
Joseph is passionate about clean energy and diversifying New Mexico’s economy. Although in his first term, Joseph has been a leading voice for holding the federal government accountable for its failure to clean radioactive waste from mines which has led to persistent ecological and public health issues in his home community. Joseph sits on the House Appropriations and Finance Committee and the Transportation, Public Works, and Capital Improvements Committees.
Pamelya Herndon
District: 28
County: Bernalillo
Pamelya Herndon represents House District 28 in the northeast heights of Albuquerque. Born in rural Texas, Pamelya attended Howard University and earned her law degree from the University of Texas. Soon after, Pamelya moved to New Mexico where she began her prolific legal career which includes IRS trial attorney, Assistant Attorney General for the State of NM, Deputy Cabinet Secretary, and Executive Director of the Southwest Women’s Law Center.
Before joining the House in 2021, Pamelya was already a leading community advocate, making her many experiences invaluable to our caucus. Pamelya has been a strong voice for policies that help the working families of her district stay safe and not just get by, but get ahead. One of her key legislative achievements is the secure storage for firearms law she crafted in 2023 to keep firearms away from children. Her efforts helped raise public awareness about the importance of preventing unauthorized access to firearms. She is the Vice Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee and also sits on the House Appropriations and Finance Committee.
Susan K. Herrera
District: 41
County: Rio Arriba, Sandoval, Santa Fe & Taos
Susan Herrera represents House District 41, encompassing parts of Rio Arriba, Santa Fe, Taos and Sandoval counties, rural areas known for their rich, uniquely New Mexican cultural heritage, and scenic landscapes. Susan moved to New Mexico in 1990 after serving as the Director of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus in Washington D.C. Before joining the House in 2019, Susan had a distinguished career in nonprofit leadership.
Susan served as the Executive Director of the Los Alamos National Laboratory Foundation, where she helped expand the foundation's endowment and awarding millions in scholarships and grants to Northern New Mexico communities. She also helped establish the UNM Taos branch and founded the Northern New Mexico Community College Foundation. In the House, Susan has been a staunch advocate for rural development, education, and water rights. She sits on the House Agriculture, Acequias, and Natural Resources Committee and the Appropriations and Finance Committee.
Dayan Hochman-Vigil - Majority Whip
District: 15
County: Bernalillo
Day Hochman-Vigil represents House District 15, covering Los Ranchos and Albuquerque’s North Valley. Born and raised in Santa Fe, Day holds a Bachelor’s degree from Colorado College, a Juris Doctor from the University of New Mexico School of Law, and a Master of Laws in Aviation and Space Law from McGill University. She is New Mexico’s only certified aviation and space attorney, advising clients on safety, regulation, and compliance.
Day has served in the House since 2019 and has been a leader on criminal justice reform, including co-sponsoring the bipartisan "Safer Communities Act" and protections for sexual assault survivors. Day’s policy expertise and work ethic has catapulted her into House leadership as the House Majority Whip. She sits on the House Transportation, Public Works & Capital Improvements Committee, Judiciary, and Rules Committees.
D. Wonda Johnson
District: 5
County: McKinley & San Juan
D. Wonda Johnson represents House District 5, encompassing McKinley and San Juan counties. She represents many Native American communities in the district, and is a proud member of the Navajo Nation. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in education from Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia. Before entering politics, she served as a teacher and has always been active in her community.
Wonda has served in the House since 2015. Throughout her tenure, Johnson has been a strong advocate for Native American communities, focusing on issues such as education, voting rights, healthcare, and infrastructure. She currently serves as the Chair of the House Government, Elections & Indian Affairs Committee and is a member of the House Labor, Veterans' and Military Affairs Committee and the House Rules & Order of Business Committee.
Raymundo Lara - Caucus Chair
District: 34
County: Doña Ana
Raymundo “Ray” Lara represents District 34 in southern Doña Ana County, a border district including San Miguel, La Mesa, Chamberino, La Union, Santa Teresa, and Sunland Park. Born and raised in southern New Mexico, Lara has a Bachelor’s degree from New Mexico State University. Ray has worked in K-12 education for almost two decades, currently serving as a program coordinator for the Gadsden Independent School District..
Ray has served in the House since 2019 and serves as the Caucus Chair of the House Democrats, building collaboration across our geographically and culturally diverse team of legislators. Ray prioritizes community-focused leadership and brings valuable experience in education to the legislature. Ray serves as Vice Chair of the House Transportation, Public Works & Capital Improvements Committee and is also a member of the House Education Committee. New Mexico Legislature.
Derrick J. Lente
District: 65
County: Rio Arriba, Sandoval & San Juan
Derrick Lente represents House District 65, a sprawling region spanning largely tribal communities in Rio Arriba, Sandoval, and San Juan counties. Derrick has roots in both Isleta Pueblo and Sandia Pueblo, living in the latter with his wife and children. Derrick attended Bernalillo High School and took courses at Central New Mexico Community College, earned a Bachelor’s degree from UNM, and eventually a law degree from UNM, becoming the first male in his pueblo to do so.
A successful entrepreneur, he acquired and grew one of the largest Native American owned businesses in the country, which he sold in 2013, employing thousands in the meantime. Derrick began his first term in the House in 2017 and has established himself as a leader on issues related to agricultural, tribal education, and tax equity. Derrick chairs the House Taxation & Revenue Committee and also serves on the Commerce & Economic Development Committee.
Charlotte Little
District: 68
County: Bernalillo
Charlotte Little serves House District 68, covering a growing family-centric area of Albuquerque’s West Side where she lives with her husband. Originally from San Felipe Pueblo, she earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of New Mexico . Charlotte has worn many hats throughout her professional career including small business owner, Tribal Administrator, and Administrative Officer for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Charlotte’s legislative priorities include creating clean energy jobs, expanding affordable healthcare and education, reproductive rights, homelessness, price gouging, and addressing root causes of crime. She’s also served as Vice-Chair of New Mexico Voices for Children, President of EMERGE New Mexico, and Chair of the San Felipe Pueblo Health Board. Charlotte has won some of the most competitive races in the state since she began her time in the House in 2023. She is the Vice Chair of the House Government, Elections & Indian Affairs Committee and also sits on the Appropriations and Finance Committee
Tara L. Lujan
District: 48
County: Santa Fe
Tara Lujan serves House District 48, covering key and culturally significant and working class areas of Santa Fe. A lifelong Santa Fe native, Lujan was appointed to the House in July 2020 after the resignation of her predecessor and has since earned reelection twice. Tara has a long record of activism and advocacy. Prior to entering the Legislature, some of her previous experiences include serving as Human Resources Director in the State Treasurer’s Office and working as a campaign manager for U.S. Representative Ben Ray Luján.
Tara has become a leader on broad areas of policy, including clean energy economics, animal welfare, and public safety. A mother of two, Tara wants to ensure that New Mexico is a place where young New Mexicans can thrive and prosper. She sits on the House Appropriations & Finance and the Government, Elections, and Indian Affairs committees.
Patricia A. Lundstrom
District: 9
County: McKinley
Patricia “Patty” Lundstrom represents House District 9 in McKinley County, including the city of Gallup and surrounding tribal and rural communities. She was raised in a blue-collar family; her father was a uranium miner. Patty earned two bachelor’s degrees and a Master’s in Public Administration from New Mexico State University and is a Certified Economic Developer.
Patty began her public service career with the Northwest New Mexico Council of Governments, where she worked for 25 years. In the House since 2001, Patty has established herself as New Mexico’s foremost expert in state budgeting, finance, and tax policy and currently serves as executive director of the Greater Gallup Economic Development Corporation. She serves on the House Transportation, Public Works, and Capital Improvement Committee and the Tax and Revenue Committee.
Javier Martínez - Speaker Of The House
District: 11
County: Bernalillo
Javier Martínez represents District 11, encompassing parts of Albuquerque, including the historic Old Town, Wells Park, and North Valley neighborhoods and lives with his wife and their two children. Raised in Albuquerque, Javier is the son of immigrants and became the first in his family to attend college. He earned a Bachelor’s degree and a Law degree from the University of New Mexico. He worked as a public health advocate in several Central American countries and after law school, served as policy director and general counsel at the Partnership for Community Action in the South Valley.
Serving in the House since 2015, Javier was elected the 31st Speaker of the House in 2023, leading not just the Democratic Caucus, but the most diverse House in the country. Under his leadership, the legislature has an exceptional record of passing landmark legislation that puts families first. He sits on the House Judiciary, Taxation and Revenue, and Rules and Order of Business Committees.
Marian Matthews
District: 27
County: Bernalillo
Marian Matthews represents House District 27 in Albuquerque’s NE Heights, home to seniors, apartment dwellers, manufactured home residents, and families. Appointed in 2020 by the Bernalillo County Commission following the passing of her predecessor, Marian has since been reelected twice. She earned a BA in Political Science at Missouri State University and a JD from the UNM School of Law.
Matthews has a varied professional career: journalist, teacher, children’s advocate, non-profit development director, private sector attorney, criminal prosecutor, and Deputy Attorney General for the State of New Mexico where she represented NM in oral argument before the US Supreme Court. In the legislature, Marian is a champion for small business, healthcare access, public safety, and affordable housing. She serves on the Agriculture, Acequias and Water Resources and the Commerce & Economic Development Committees. She has twice been named Legislator of the Year by the NM Association for Home & Hospice Care.
Matthew McQueen
District: 50
County: Sandoval and Santa Fe
Matthew McQueen represents House District 50, spanning parts of Santa Fe and Sandoval counties, including Eldorado, Edgewood, and Placitas, as well as many smaller communities in between. Operating his own law firm as a conservation attorney, McQueen specializes in real property transactions, housing development, and business. He has made New Mexico home for 30 years and lives in Galisteo with his wife and children who proudly attend public schools.
Matthew has been Director of Conservation Programs at the Santa Fe Conservation Trust, General Counsel for the Taos Land Trust, and an attorney for the Office of the State Engineer. Matthew joined the House in 2015. Ever since, he has been a leader on government transparency, legislative modernization efforts, land, water and wildlife policy, and increasing the oil and gas royalty rates. He is the Chair of the House Energy, Environment & Natural Resources Committee and also sits on the Judiciary Committee.
Kristina Ortez
District: 42
County: Taos
Kristina Ortez represents House District 42 which contains Taos and surrounding traditional agricultural communities. District 42 is known for its vibrant arts scene, longstanding traditions, and deep connections to the land and water. She lives in Taos with her two daughters. Raised in California’s San Joaquin Valley, she earned a Bachelor of Arts from Harvard University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of New Mexico.
Before joining the House, Kristina served as Executive Director of the Taos Land Trust and Board Chair of Conservation Voters New Mexico, advocating for conservation of private and public lands and clean water access. She joined the House in 2021, and has been a champion for environmental stewardship, rural development, water justice, and reproductive rights. She chairs the House Agriculture, Acequias and Water Resources Committee and also serves on the Labor, Veterans’ & Military Affairs Committee.
Cristina Parajón
District: 25
County: Bernalillo
Cristina Parajón represents House District 25, a working class, residential and commercial area located in the middle of Albuquerque along I-40. A native of Albuquerque, Parajón graduated from Harvard University and went on to earn a master’s degree at Tsinghua University in Beijing as a Schwarzman Scholar. Before joining the House, Cristina was the Strategy Director at the New Mexico Human Services Department, Deputy Incident Commander for the City of Albuquerque during the COVID-19 emergency response, and Gateway Center Administrator for Albuquerque Family Community Services, leading efforts to serve unhoused individuals.
Initially joining the House after being appointed in August 2023 to fill a vacancy, she made history as New Mexico’s youngest female legislator. She champions affordable housing, healthcare access, reproductive rights, transparency, and democratic elections. Cristina sits on the House Education, Labor, Veterans & Military Affairs, and Taxation & Revenue committees and is in her third year of law school at UNM.
Andrea Romero
District: 46
County: Santa Fe
Andrea Romero represents House District 46 within Santa Fe County, including a part of the City of Santa Fe and extending north toward Rio Arriba and Mora counties. District 46 is home to traditional agricultural communities and four sovereign Pueblos: Nambe, Pojoaque, San Ildefonso, and Tesuque. The area is rich in cultural heritage, with a vibrant mix of traditions and communities.
Born and raised in Northern New Mexico, Andrea earned a Bachelor’s degree from Stanford University and a law degree from UNM. Prior to serving in the legislature, she founded several small businesses and worked in impact finance and management consulting. Joining the legislature in 2019, Andrea has been one of the most proactive sponsors of major legislation, including the decriminalization of cannabis and the establishment of a seven-day waiting period for firearm purchases. She currently serves as the Vice Chair of the House Judiciary Committee, Chair of the House Rules and Order of Business Committee, and is the House Parliamentarian.
G. Andrés Romero
District: 10
County: Bernalillo
G. Andrés Romero represents House District 10, encompassing much of Albuquerque’s culturally-rich South Valley, the Mesa del Sol neighborhood, and the Albuquerque Sunport. Born and raised with deep, ever-growing roots in the South Valley, Romero attended Los Padillas Elementary School, Polk Middle School, and Rio Grande High School and lives in the Los Padillas neighborhood with his wife and their two children. He earned both his Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree from UNM. Andrés teaches social studies at Atrisco Heritage Academy High School.
Andrés joined the House in 2015, utilizing his classroom experience to become one of New Mexico’s foremost leaders in education policy. He has been instrumental in many of the forward-thinking education reforms to come out of New Mexico, directly informed by the firsthand experiences of students and teachers. He chairs the House Education Committee and also serves on the Transportation, Public Works & Capital Improvements and Rules & Order of Business Committees.
Patricia Roybal Caballero
District: 13
County: Bernalillo
Patricia Roybal Caballero represents House District 13, containing the far southwestern area of Albuquerque. Patricia’s roots are in Las Cruces, New Mexico going back over 22 generations and is a proud member of two tribal nations. She earned a Bachelor degree from the University of Colorado Boulder and holds dual Master's degrees in Public Administration and Community and Regional Planning from UNM.
Patricia is also a Ph.D. candidate in Chicana and Chicano Studies at UNM. Since joining the House in 2012, Patricia has served in various leadership roles, including House Democratic Caucus Chair and has sponsored many critical bills throughout her tenure. She was recently the National Treasurer of the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators and is also a member of the National Caucus of Native American of State Legislators. She is the Chair of the House Labor, Veterans’, and Military Affairs Committee and also sits on the Education Committee.
Angelica Rubio
District: 35
County: Doña Ana
Angelica Rubio represents House District 35, which covers the heart of central Las Cruces, including historic downtown neighborhoods. Angelica was born and raised in rural Lake Arthur in southeastern New Mexico. She earned a Bachelor’s degree from New Mexico State University and a Master’s degree from California State University, where her passion for racial and social justice took flight. She is the youngest daughter of Mexican immigrants, which continues to inform her policymaking and activism to this day.
Serving in the House since 2017, she has led legislation on climate justice, transportation, housing equity, voting access, gender-inclusivity, and broadening access to outdoor recreation for all New Mexicans. She chairs the Vice Chair of the House Consumer and Public Affairs Committee and also sits on the Agriculture, Acequias, and Water Resources Committee.
Joseph Sanchez
District: 40
County: Colfax, Mora, Rio Arriba, San Miguel & Taos
Joseph Sanchez represents House District 40, a vast and culturally rich agricultural region in Northern New Mexico covering parts of Colfax, Mora, Rio Arriba, San Miguel, and Taos counties, rural communities steeped in tradition. Born, raised, and still living in the farming town of Alcalde, he earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in electrical engineering from the UNM and an MBA from New Mexico State University. Joseph has worked as an engineer at Los Alamos National Laboratory, currently serves as CEO of Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative.
Joseph volunteers as the Chair of the Rio Arriba Democratic Party, organizing grassroots events and volunteers to support Democratic campaigns and causes. He champions rural broadband, infrastructure, strong lab-community partnerships, and the needs of land grant and Native communities. Serving in the House since 2019, Joseph is the Vice Chair of the House Rural Development, Land Grants & Cultural Affairs Committee and also sits on the Appropriations & Finance.
Debra M. Sariñana
District: 21
County: Bernalillo
Debra “Debbie” Sariñana represents House District 21, which encompasses the northeast and southeast quadrants of Albuquerque along the I-40 corridor. Born and raised in Albuquerque, Debbie graduated from Manzano High School before earning a bachelor’s degree in education from New Mexico State University and a master’s degree in mathematics education from the University of New Mexico.
She served for six years as a medical service specialist in the U.S. Air Force Reserves and later worked as a computer programmer with the federal government. Debbie recently retired after a distinguished career as a middle and high school mathematics teacher.
Since joining the New Mexico Legislature in 2017, Debbie has demonstrated a deep commitment to strengthening math and literacy education, supporting military members and veterans, and advancing environmental justice. She is also focused on public safety and cybersecurity, particularly in ways that support students and families in her district.
Debbie currently serves as Vice Chair of the House Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committee and is a member of the House Appropriations and Finance Committee. She is serving her current legislative term through 2026.
Linda Serrato
District: 45
County: Santa Fe
Linda Serrato represents House District 45, which includes family-centric working class neighborhoods of central and south Santa Fe. She earned a Bachelor’s in Public Policy from Stanford University, the first in her family to graduate from college. Linda began her political career organizing communities across eastern New Mexico for President Obama’s 2008 campaign and later in Washington D.C., advancing natural resource protections and advocating for compensation for New Mexicans exposed to toxic radiation.
Linda was appointed in October 2020 to fill a vacancy in the House, and has subsequently run for reelection twice successfully. She is a committed advocate for renewable energy, protection of land and water, living wages, paid family leave, and gender-affirming healthcare access. She is the Chair of the Rural Development, Land Grants & Cultural Affairs Committee and also serves on the Commerce & Economic Development committee.
Sarah Silva
District: 53
County: Doña Ana & Otero
Representative Sarah Silva serves House District 53, which spans southeastern portions of Doña Ana County—including Chaparral—and a corner of Otero County near the Texas border, White Sands Missile Range, and eastern Las Cruces. Born and raised in the Mesilla Valley, she returned home in 2009 after studying at the University of San Francisco—where she earned two bachelor’s degrees and received the Pedro Arrupe Award for her work in justice and leadership.
A community organizer and social-movement coach, Silva founded and led organizing efforts through NM Comunidades en Acción y de Fe (CAFe) and serves on the board of the Native Land Institute NM CAFe. First elected in 2024 and sworn in on January 1, 2025, she is a member of the House Appropriations & Finance, Taxation & Revenue. Silva’s legislative priorities include promoting press freedom through the updated PRESS Act, transparency and good government for New Mexicans, and ensuring economic and community investment across her district.
Nathan P. Small
District: 36
County: Doña Ana
Nathan Small represents House District 36, home to parts of northern Las Cruces and rural communities to the west and north of the city. Born and raised in the small town of El Cerro Mission, Nathan comes from a family of educators and ranchers. He earned a Bachelor’s degree from Wooster College. Before his legislative service, Nathan served two terms on the Las Cruces City Council, where he chaired the Economic Development Committee and championed sustainability and economic development. He is married to Xochitl Torres Small, former U.S. Representative for New Mexico's 2nd District and Deputy Secretary of Agriculture.
Since joining the House in 2017, Nathan has been a strong advocate for the clean energy economy of the future, economic development, and public education. Nathan is Chair of the House Appropriations and Finance Committee, one of the most critical government roles in the state, leading the committee that crafts the state budget and chairs the Legislative Finance Committee. He is also a member of the Energy, Environment & Natural Resources Committee.
Reena Szczepanski - Majority Floor Leader
District: 47
County: Santa Fe
Reena Szczepanski represents District 47, including parts of Santa Fe and mountainous areas like Glorieta. She lives in Santa Fe with her husband and two children. Born in Georgia, Reena is the daughter of Indian immigrants, amplifying an underrepresented voice in the legislature. She earned a Bachelor’s from Brown University. Before serving in the House, Reena served as Director of Emerge NM, training women to run for office, leading to New Mexico’s state legislature becoming one of the country’s most inclusive of women leaders. She was also the Director of the NM Drug Policy Alliance and honed her policy expertise as Chief of Staff to Speaker Brian Egolf.
In the House since 2023, Reena became House Majority Floor Leader in 2025, becoming the first Asian American to serve in state legislative leadership. She’s a passionate advocate for healthcare, reproductive rights, gun violence prevention, climate action, and creative industries. She sits on the House Government, Elections, and Indian Affairs, Judiciary, and Rules and Orders of Business Committees.
Elizabeth "Liz" Thomson
District: 24
County: Bernalillo
Elizabeth “Liz” Thomson represents House District 24 in northeast Albuquerque which includes diverse, urban neighborhoods. Liz earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Physical Therapy from UNM. Before entering politics, she worked as a pediatric physical therapist, helping children with disabilities achieve greater independence and opportunity. Liz spent her professional career helping children with disabilities reach their full potential, motivated by her experience as the parent of an autistic child.
Liz has brought her clinical expertise to the House since first serving from 2013 to 2015 and then again after a two year absence, continuously since 2017. Throughout her tenure, Liz has championed progressive policies that support working families, expand affordable housing, strengthen mental health care, and protect reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ rights.Liz is the Chair of the House Health & Human Services Committee and also serves on the Consumer & Public Affairs Committee.
E. Diane Torres-Velásquez
District: 30
County: Bernalillo
Dr. Diane Torres-Velásquez represents House District 30, which includes residential areas of northeast Albuquerque surrounding the Arroyo del Oso Golf Course. Diane is a dedicated educator and advocate for equitable access for all students. She holds a Ph.D. in special education from the University of New Mexico and served as Associate Professor in the College of Education and Human Sciences, where she holds emeritus faculty status. She used community advocacy in her teaching and research, including math and science education involving families, and innovative approaches teaching literacy in correctional facilities.
Dr. Torres-Velásquez has contributed to significant education reforms and has been recognized for her work with the landmark Martínez and Yazzie v. New Mexico lawsuits, which sought to ensure equitable public education for all students. In tribute to her community work, she was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award for Community Service from the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF). She has worked with many non-profit organizations to promote higher education opportunities for marginalized communities. In the legislature, Diane focuses on education reform, water sustainability, economic growth, land grants, and community safety. She sits on the House Education Committee, House Labor, Veterans’, and Military Affairs Committee, and the Land Grants Committee.