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2024 General Election Guide
N.M. House of Representatives
Tanya Mirabal Moya (I)
Age: 49
Occupation: Teacher
Education: B.S. in health and wellness; Purdue Global University (formally Kaplan University), M.S. in sports management: Coaching and athletic administration
Previous elected political offices: Current N.M. Representative District 7
Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a DWI or a felony in New Mexico or in another state? “No.”
1. What experience, education, etc., makes you qualified for this position?
“As a lifelong resident and educator at the local high school, I have gained deep insights into the district’s needs. My term as a representative has further equipped me with the knowledge to translate those needs into meaningful legislation. My experience in education enables me to understand the challenges our students and teachers face, allowing me to advocate effectively for policies that will enhance educational outcomes and community engagement.”
2. What will you advocate for at the Legislature to address public safety concerns?
“I advocate for stricter laws targeting repeat offenders and reforms to address the revolving door of justice that allows criminals to return to our streets. Additionally, I have supported funding for local and county law enforcement to ensure they have the necessary equipment and resources to safely address public safety concerns. By prioritizing both legislative efforts and community support, we can create a safer environment for all residents.”
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3. What legislation do you plan to sponsor this upcoming legislative session?
“This upcoming legislative session, I plan to sponsor legislation aimed at establishing statewide STEM technology labs in our schools. Education is incredibly important to me. It not only supports personal growth but also drives the betterment of New Mexico. By investing in these labs, we can foster innovation and retention of our youth. Equipping students with essential skills in science, technology, engineering, and math will empower them to succeed and contribute to our state’s future.”
4. Would you support a change in legislation that clearly defines where political candidates are required to live to seek and hold office?
“It’s vital for political candidates to live in the districts they represent, as this ensures they understand and address the unique needs and concerns of their constituents. Living and operating within the community fosters genuine connections and accountability. Representation is not just about policy but also about fostering trust and familiarity; candidates who do not engage directly with their constituents cannot effectively champion their interests or embody true democracy.”
Brian G. Baca (I)
Age: 54
Occupation: Educator (deputy superintendent)
Education: Master’s degree in educational leadership
Previous elected political offices: N.M. House of Representatives, 2022-present
Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a DWI or a felony in New Mexico or in another state? “No.”
1. What experience, education, etc., makes you qualified for this position?
“I have 31 years of experience in education as a teacher, coach and administrator. I am an alumni of the University of New Mexico, where I earned my bachelors and masters degrees. It has been my privilege to serve Valencia County for the past three years in the N.M. House of Representatives. My duties have included being an active and voting member for the finance committee and the education committee. I have worked collaboratively with local and state officials to secure millions of dollars for the hospital and a new exit 1-25 interchange.”
2. What will you advocate for at the Legislature to address public safety concerns?
“I will continue to support legislation and tougher laws aimed at making our communities safe, including laws targeted at repeat offenders and the end of the current catch-and-release policy. I will continue to advocate for millions of dollars for our local police and fire personnel in Valencia County.
“I will resume school safety initiatives to protect school districts state-wide, including the continued support of the newly-founded N.M. Safety Summit and will work collaboratively in a bipartisan effort to support and protect my constituents.”
3. What legislation do you plan to sponsor this upcoming legislative session?
“As a veteran educator, I will be carrying a number of bills to address school safety, social emotional learning (SEL), and capital outlay projects (infrastructure, buildings and roads). My committees have been responsible for making changes to the allocation of funds among our school districts and charter schools. (state equalization guarantee). At my request, there is a committee looking at middle school reform, including attendance and student engagement. I will work to protect small businesses and public safety.”
4. Would you support a change in legislation that clearly defines where political candidates are required to live to seek and hold office?
“I do support and believe that a candidate should live in the district they serve. As a fourth-generation resident of Los Lunas and a graduate of Los Lunas High School, I am totally committed to protecting our community members, businesses and schools. I have been all over the state, as part of the interim committee process and believe that we are blessed to live in this country. I will fight tirelessly to protect our conservative common sense values based on God, family and country.”
Gail Missy Armstrong (I)
Age: 58
Occupation: Self employed
Previous elected political offices: School board, N.M. House of Representatives
Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a DWI or felony in New Mexico or in another state? “No.”
1. What experience, education, etc. makes you qualified for this position?
“I have been in this position for four terms or eight years. Previously, I was on the Magdalena School Board, Socorro fair board and schools PTA. I am a mother of four, grandmother of 13. My husband and I started a business 37 years ago, I feel that I am aware of what the issues are rural and urban New Mexico. I am a rancher and a business owner that loves people and N.M., I feel that I listen to my constituents.”
2. What will you advocated for at the Legislature to address public safety concerns?
“I have advocated for and voted for holding people accountable, actions have consequences; the revolving door needs to stop! I have carried legislation to help support behavioral health assess and to increase reimbursement for providers.”
3. What legislation do you plan to sponsor this legislative session?
“1. Some compact legislation to help health care providers attain a license in New Mexico. If they are already licensed in another state.
2. Veterinarian loan repayment/tax deduction.
3. Mandating the state to reimburse independent pharmacies equal to what they do for big pharma. More in the hopper that I am vetting now.”
4. Would you support a change in legislation that clearly defines where political candidates are required to live to seek office?
“There is a clear understanding that you should reside in the area you represent. It’s judges that are determining the outcomes of these court cases. Of course I support making that legislation more clear.”
(Editor’s Note: Michelle Abeyta, a Democrat, running for the District 69 seat, did not respond to the News-Bulletin’s questionnaire.)
