Candidates for precinct and ward office

Candidates for party office, 2021-2023
Democratic Party of Rio Arriba County

This documents lists those who have declared their candidacy for one or more of the following offices in Rio Arriba County, for terms to run from spring 2021 to spring 2023.

When candidates provided an answer to the question “Why are you running for this office?”, their answer is provided after their name.

Owing to data processing issues, some statements have apparently been lost or garbled. If you are a candidate and the statement you filed is not here, or paragraph breaks are missing, please write the webmaster with corrections.

Candidates for ward office

Ward 1

Candidates for chair, ward 1

 

  • James Martinez

    Why are you running? To represent my Ward and our residents.

  • Susan K. Herrera

    Why are you running? As the elected Democratic Representative from District 41, I want to work to have an active and vibrant Democratic County Committee that includes all interested Democrats that want to take an active part in local, state and national elections. I think we need a Democratic county committee that is welcoming, has monthly activities discussing key central issues. I want to be part of a Democratic County Committee that works together to build and expand the democratic party in Rio Arriba. We need to attract young Democrats, first time voters and reach out to high school and college students who would like to be part of our Democratic party. Democratic events should be a time where we meet with old friends and meet new friends, a place where you learn something, and a place where we can all discuss how we can improve our local, state and national politics. It should be a committee where everybody knows your name, a meeting that you look forward to, and a meeting that reinforces your commitment to a vital democracy.

Candidates for vice-chair, ward 1

 

  • Chris Valdez

Candidates for ward secretary, ward 1

 

  • Flora Angelina Valdez

    Why are you running? I am running for ward secretary because I feel it’s time to get involved. I have approximately 20 years of running meetings at the local and state level. I am able to maintain records for organizations and maintain those records impeccably.

  • Kathryn Gold

    Why are you running? I have lived in Chimayó for 20 years and have always tried to help my neighbors any way I can. I hope I can continue to serve others by becoming precinct chair. I would like to see greater participation in the Party by all members of our community, and to build a vibrant Democratic Party that can take on the challenges of our current political situation.

  • Carlos F. Trujillo

Precincts in this ward:
Precinct 47: Velarde,
Precinct 48: Dixon (Lower),
Precinct 49: Dixon (Upper),
Precinct 61: Espanola (Lucero),
Precinct 66: Espanola (Sr. Center),
Precinct 67: Fairview A,
Precinct 68: Ranchitos – El Llano,
Precinct 69: Fairview B,
Precinct 70: Chimayo (Lower),
Precinct 71: Chimayo (Upper),
Precinct 72: Cordova,
Precinct 73: Truchas,
Precinct 74: Ojo Sarco

Ward 2

Candidates for chair, ward 2

  • Joseph Sanchez
  • Arsenio Martinez

    Why are you running? Organize, Motivate, and Register Democrats for better representation.

  • Ralph Martinez

    Why are you running?
    As an elected Ward Chair I would be uniquely placed to take an active lead within our county. I would represent the interests of our communities. I will build relationships with individuals and groups within our Ward to empower the local people. My duty is to be accessible to all the people within my Ward and represent their interests conscientiously, while acting as a whole and all the communities served by it.

Candidates for vice-chair, ward 2

  • Tina Archuleta

    Why are you running? I am running for this position because I believe I can be an effective liaison between the precincts within my ward. I have extensive campaign experience and organizational skills. In the past I have had the pleasure with working alongside the other precincts during various democratic elections. In the past, I have been employed by Governor Lujan Grisham’s Campaign for Governor and the Democratic Party of New Mexico as a Regional Field Coordinator during the 2018 election cycle. Prior to that I have worked on various campaigns that have included legislative, county, city and school board elections throughout Rio Arriba and Taos County.

  • John DePaula
  • Nathana Bird

    Why are you running? I believe that my community deserves to be represented and I am committed to this process by actively showing up for my community. We are at a time where we need to be actively engaged in the decision making that deeply impacts our families and future generations. I am invested in learning all that I can in order to represent, engage and inform the community of Ohkay Owingeh. It’s time to create space to uplift our Indigenous women voices in the political arena in Rio Arriba County. Our community needs to be represented in order to create a healthy and effective community. I believe I have the ability to organize our community and represent in a way that is guided through heart and compassion for our families and future generations. It is out of deep appreciation and love that I move to get involved. It is for the children and young people that I journey through this process. This is bigger than myself. It’s an obligation to my people and community.

Candidates for ward secretary, ward 2

  • Porter Swentzell

    Why are you running? I am a lifelong Democrat from Santa Clara Pueblo. Currently, I am a faculty member at the Institute of American Indian Arts and serve as a regent for Northern New Mexico College. If elected I would be honored to serve my precinct and ward to advance Democratic principles on the local and state level.

  • Lucia Sanchez

Precincts in this ward:
Precinct 36: Hernandez (West),
Precinct 37: Hernandez (East),
Precinct 46: El Guique,
Precinct 56: Chamita,
Precinct 57: Alcalde (Lower),
Precinct 58: Alcalde (Upper),
Precinct 59: Ohkay Owingeh,
Precinct 60: Santa Clara,
Precinct 62: Espanola Admin,
Precinct 63: La Mesilla (Upper),
Precinct 64: La Mesilla (Lower),
Precinct 65: San Pedro

Ward 3

Candidates for chair, ward 3

  • Isabel Jewell
  • Eric Martinez

    Why are you running? I want to be a voice and represent my Precinct, my Community, the County and the Democratic Party.

  • LeAnne Salazar Montoya

    Why are you running? I would like to continue to serving Ward 3. COVID made this year difficult to serve. I would like to serve to represent my community and the area I have lived in my entire life. I would like to represent the voice of the people, especially the seniors and youth that struggle to engage with our current technology.

Candidates for vice-chair, ward 3

  • Felipe Martinez

Candidates for ward secretary, ward 3

  • Tomas Campos

Precincts in this ward:
Precinct 01: Dulce (West),
Precinct 02: Dulce (East),
Precinct 03: Lumberton,
Precinct 04: Chama,
Precinct 05: Los Pinos,
Precinct 10: Los Ojos,
Precinct 11: Tierra Amarilla,
Precinct 12: Cebolla,
Precinct 13: Vallecitos,
Precinct 14: Petaca,
Precinct 21: Lybrook,
Precinct 22: Lindrith,
Precinct 23: Gallina,
Precinct 24: Coyote,
Precinct 25: Canjilon,
Precinct 26: Abiquiu,
Precinct 27: El Rito,
Precinct 28: La Madera,
Precinct 35: Cañones,
Precinct 38: Rio Chama,
Precinct 39: Ojo Caliente

Candidates at the precinct level

Precinct chairs, precinct vice-chairs, and members of the county central committee are elected by each precinct. Voters who registered as electors during the registration period (28 February – 2 March) are eligible to vote.

Candidates may run for multiple precinct offices. In particular, it is allowed to run both for precinct chair and for the county central committee. Those elected as precinct chairs are assigned one of the precinct’s seats in the CCC; candidates not elected precinct chair are eligible to be elected to other seats on the CCC, if the prccinct has more than one seat. Seats on the CCC are allocated in proportion to the votes for the Democratic candidates for governor and president in 2018 and 2020.

Precinct 01: Dulce (West), Ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 6 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Linsay Castleberry

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none
  • Candidates for seats on the CCC (5 seats):

    • Linsay Castleberry

Precinct 02: Dulce (East), Ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 2 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair: none
  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none
  • Candidates for seats on the CCC (1 seat): none

Precinct 03: Lumberton, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 1 seat on the CCC, occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair: none
  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none

Precinct 04: Chama, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 4 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • James Melvyn Apodaca

      Why are you running? I remain an active member of the Rio Arriba Democratic party I believe in the Democratic party’s ideals and am willing to work to help implement those ideals

    • Billy Samora

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Tomas Campos

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC (3 seats):

    • Patricia Serna

    • Billy Samora

Precinct 05: Los Pinos, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 1 seat on the CCC, occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair: none
  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none

Precinct 10: Los Ojos, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 2 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Jose Agapito Candelaria

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Jose Belarmino Archuleta

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC (1 seat):

    • Jose Agapito Candelaria

    • Jose Belarmino Archuleta

Precinct 11: Tierra Amarilla, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 3 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Carmen L. Abeyta

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Fermin Abeyta

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC (2 seats): none

Precinct 12: Cebolla, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 1 seat on the CCC, occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair

    • Tirzio Lopez

      Why are you running? I have lived in Ward 3 all of my life. I have fought for the people of Northern NM all of my adult life. I want to represent Rio Arriba County and ensure our values our protected and heard.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none

Precinct 13: Vallecitos, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 1 seat on the CCC, occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair: none
  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none

Precinct 14: Petaca, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 1 seat on the CCC, occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair: none
  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none

Precinct 21: Lybrook, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 1 seat on the CCC, occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair: none
  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none

Precinct 22: Lindrith, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 1 seat on the CCC, occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair: none
  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none

Precinct 23: Gallina, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 1 seat on the CCC, occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair: none
  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none

Precinct 24: Coyote, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 2 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Emery Maez

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none
  • Candidates for seats on the CCC: none

Precinct 25: Canjilon, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 2 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Jessica Madrid

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none
  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Jessica Madrid

Precinct 26: Abiquiu, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 4 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Isabel Jewell

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none
  • Candidates for seats on the CCC: none

Precinct 27: El Rito, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 5 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Felipe Martinez

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Henry Ochoa

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC (4 seats):

    • Jake Arnold

    • Henry Ochoa

    • Dorothy Ochoa

    • Ramoncita Martinez

    • Felipe Martinez

Precinct 28: La Madera, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 1 seat on the CCC, occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Quentin Wilson

    • Claudia Page

      Why are you running? The last 4 years have been terrible politically and I would like to participate in making some positive changes beginning at the precinct level. We need to get more people involved in staying informed and always voting. Too many of us have sat aside thinking someone else would keep our democracy vital but I do want to be involved in the grass roots to make some changes.

    • Moises Pena

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • William D. Page

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Moises Pena

    • Claudia Page

    • William D. Page

Precinct 35: Cañones, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 1 seat on the CCC, occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair: none
  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none

Precinct 36: Hernandez (West), ward 2

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 5 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Jeremy Maestas

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Kenneth Norris

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Gusman Maestas

    • Antonio Baca

    • Rick Romero

    • Kenneth Norris

Precinct 37: Hernandez (East), ward 2

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 2 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Linda J. Padilla

      Why are you running? I want to make a difference in my community.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none
  • Candidates for seats on the CCC: none

Precinct 38: Rio Chama, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 6 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • LeeAnne Salazar Montoya

    • Carlos Salazar

    • Eric Martinez

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Maria Rita Salazar

    • Cristina McCandless

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Charles O Harro

    • Cristina McCandless

    • Carlos Salazar

    • Eric Martinez

Precinct 39: Ojo Caliente, ward 3

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 2 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Wendy Dolci

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Robert Dolci

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Robert Dolci

Precinct 46: El Guique, ward 2

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 1 seat on the CCC, occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Patrick Herrera

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none

Precinct 47: Velarde, ward 1

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 6 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Daniel Velarde

    • Roger E. Montoya

      Why are you running? I seek this position as precinct chair to maximize the outreach to my community and to inspire them to engage in the party as volunteers, to increase voter turn out and foster community stewardship, across generational, racial, cultural and class categories.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair (5 seats):

    • Marvin Armijo

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Brandy Rendon

    • Salvador Ruiz Esquivel

    • Daniel Velarde

    • Lisa Pacheco

    • Edward Velarde

    • Marvin Armijo

    • Daniel Montoya

    • Roger E. Montoya

Precinct 48: Dixon (Lower), ward 1

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 4 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Charlotte Madueno

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none
  • Candidates for seats on the CCC (3 seats):

    • Charlotte Madueno

    • Cynthia Ewers

    • Christine Kane

    • Andres Madueno

Precinct 49: Dixon (Upper), ward 1

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 2 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Steven Jenison

      Why are you running? I have a longstanding commitment to the political process. I was a New Mexico state employee for 15 years involved in advocating for, developing and implementing statewide public health policy. I am currently a licensed Paramedic and the Rescue Chief of the Dixon Volunteer Fire Department and will likely become Department Chief in the next few months. I volunteer at least 40 hours per week to the Fire Department and to the American Red Cross. I would like to use my precinct office to advocate for improved community-level heath care access and strengthened public safety infrastructure.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Joseph Ciddio

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Joseph Ciddio

    • Steven Jenison

Precinct 56: Chamita, ward 2

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 3 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Gloria Gonzales

      Why are you running? I am running for Precinct Chair in my community to keep unity, integrity and team progression in our small community of Democrats.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Joyce Garcia y Balkey

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Brian Balkey

Precinct 57: Alcalde (Lower), ward 2

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 5 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Arsenio Martinez

    • Jeremiah Sanchez

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Lennett Rendon

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Armando Rendon

    • Crystal Sanchez

    • Irene Sanchez

    • Arsenio Martinez

Precinct 58: Alcalde (Upper), ward 2

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 3 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Robert Sanchez

      Why are you running? I would like to help gather my community and get them to vote during elections.

    • T. Justin Garoutte

      Why are you running? My name is T. Justin Garoutte (pronouns: they or he), and I am originally from Antonito, Colorado, in el Valle de San Luis. Over the years, I have worked to advance health equity by building power through policy advocacy at local, state, and national levels. Currently, I work as the Director of Strategic Initiatives at the New Mexico Environment Department. Also, I serve as Policy Chair to the LGBTQ Health Caucus of the American Health Association. I live in Alcalde at Los Luceros Historic Site with my wonderful husband Ethan Orlando Ortega, cat Mochi, and plenty of chickens. I am running for Precinct Chair as a latinx, gay, genderqueer individual to support inspire, and engage my neighbors in becoming active participants in the Democratic Party right here in Rio Arriba County.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Ethan Ortega

    • Alexandria Salazar

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Anna Marie Salazar

    • Rebecca Ward

    • Ethan Ortega

    • Alexandria Salazar

    • T. Justin Garoutte

Precinct 59: Ohkay Owingeh, ward 2

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 6 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Benny Lujan

    • Nathana Bird

      Why are you running? I believe that my community deserves to be represented and I am committed to this process by actively showing up for my community. We are at a time where we need to be actively engaged in the decision making that deeply impacts our families and future generations. I am invested in learning all that I can in order to represent, engage and inform the community of Ohkay Owingeh. It’s time to create space to uplift our Indigenous women voices in the political arena in Rio Arriba County. Our community needs to be represented in order to create a healthy and effective community. I believe I have the ability to organize our community and represent in a way that is guided through heart and compassion for our families and future generations. It is out of deep appreciation and love that I move to get involved. It is for the children and young people that I journey through this process. This is bigger than myself. It’s an obligation to my people and community.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Annette Lujan

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Dorea Garcia

    • Johnny Abeyta

    • Miranda Lujan

    • Annette Lujan

    • Lisa Lopez

    • Brenda M. Atencio

    • James Lopez

    • Benny Lujan

    • Nathana Bird

Precinct 60: Santa Clara, ward 2

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 5 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Alvin Warren

      Why are you running? I was born and raised in Northern New Mexico and am a lifelong Democrat. I’m interested in serving as precinct chair to advocate for the interests of our Precinct #60 residents and to support the success of the Rio Arriba Democratic Party, our elected officials and candidates at the state, county, ward and precinct levels. I care deeply about my community of Santa Clara Pueblo, our county and state and the Pueblos, Tribes and Nations in New Mexico. In the past I’ve served as lieutenant governor, treasurer, interpreter and a Tribal Council member for Santa Clara Pueblo. I also worked for Santa Clara for almost 10 years on land and water rights. I’ve been an active member of Democratic Party for over 25 years. I’ve helped to increase the number of registered voters in Santa Clara and to phone bank and door knock to help encourage our community members to vote for candidates who will support our issues. I’ve previously served as the chair of the New Mexico Native American Democratic Caucus and as a member of the State Central Committee for the Democratic Party of New Mexico. In 2012 I was appointed to be a member of the Credentials Committee for the 2012 Democratic National Convention.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Lucrecia Williams

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC (4 seats):

    • Porter Swentzell

      Why are you running? I am a lifelong Democrat from Santa Clara Pueblo. Currently, I am a faculty member at the Institute of American Indian Arts and serve as a regent for Northern New Mexico College. If elected I would be honored to serve my precinct and ward to advance Democratic principles on the local and state level.

    • Lucrecia Williams

    • M. Kathleen Naranjo

    • Carolyn Gutierrez

    • Gilbert Tafoya

Precinct 61: Espanola (Lucero), ward 1

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 2 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • John Ramon Vigil

      Why are you running? I am the incumbent precinct chair and I believe I represent my precinct well.

    • Santana L. Salazar

      Why are you running? I am young and can bring diverse representation to my precinct. I try to familiarize myself with all individuals within my precinct and make it a point to be neighborly to my precinct and community.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Stephen W. Gomez

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Santana L. Salazar

Precinct 62: Espanola Admin, ward 2

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 2 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Miriah Martinez

    • Lauren Reichelt

      Why are you running? To bring new ideas and energy to the Democratic Party and to make it accessible and raise participation.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Camila S. Garcia

    • Lauren Reichelt

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Dennis Tim Salazar

    • Lauren Reichelt

Precinct 63: La Mesilla (Upper), ward 2

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 5 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Johnnie Mae de Schweinitz

      Why are you running? I want to represent my local community and to help encourage the democratic process in our county..

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Carolina Esquivel

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Carolina Esquivel

    • Luis Torres

Precinct 64: La Mesilla (Lower), ward 2

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 4 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Michael Sperberg McQueen

      Why are you running? I’ve lived in La Mesilla for twenty years; I would like the Democratic Party to be more visible and more useful here. Since November 2016 I have been looking for ways to limit the damage done to our country by the man elected president then, to repair some of the damage he did, and to build our country back, better. In 2019 I became a precinct chair mostly by accident: two La Mesilla voters attended the county convention and I drew the short straw. I have spent the last two years learning about how the party organization works and trying to do my part in the county central committee, and I hope that I am now in a better position to work effectively as a precinct chair. I want three things for our party, for our county and state, for our country: Respect nature; respect science; respect each other. That starts at the precinct level. We need open, constructive discussion of issues, we need to communicate with voters now alienated from the party in order to stop the Republican inroads in La Mesilla, and we need to prepare for November 2022.

    • Kedrick Mendez

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • John DePaula

    • Debbie Rodella

    • Saraswati Kaur Khalsa

      Why are you running? I have lived in La Mesilla for 15 years and raised three children here. I believe the Democratic Party should be representative of all parts of the community and that policies adopted should reflect the values and priorities of our local community. Those of us who live here value our land and our water, and understand our shared reliance on the earth for life. We value strong communities that support each other, provide for the basic needs of all people, and the unique freedoms that a strong, democratic society provides. These values and freedoms cannot be compromised on the altar of corporate profit for short term economic gains or the or the benefit of a few over the many. We must take the long view, preserving our land, our water and our democratic values for our children, and their children, and beyond.

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Kedrick Mendez

    • Ryan Triana

    • Joseph Maestas

    • Diane J. Maestas

    • Saraswati Kaur Khalsa

    • Debbie Rodella

    • Michael Sperberg-McQueen

Precinct 65: San Pedro, ward 2

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 4 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Ricky Blea

    • Ralph Martinez

      Why are you running? As an elected Ward Chair I would be uniquely placed to take an active lead within our county. I would represent the interests of our communities. I will build relationships with individuals and groups within our Ward to empower the local people. My duty is to be accessible to all the people within my Ward and represent their interests conscientiously, while acting as a whole and all the communities served by it.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Valerie F. Martinez

    • Clarissa Duran

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC (3 seats):

    • Alfonso Jaramillo

    • Harry Gantz

    • Joshua M. Martinez

    • Clarissa Duran

    • Ralph Martinez

    • Clara Chapman

    • LeRoy Goodwin

    • Gilbert Serrano

Precinct 66: Espanola (Sr. Center), ward 1

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 3 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Carla Anne Martinez

      Why are you running? I am invested in my neighborhood to make a difference.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Christine Rae Chavez

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC: none

Precinct 67: Fairview A, ward 1

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 4 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Lou Baker

      Why are you running? Democrats pushed through a sweeping expansion of federal voting rights on Wednesday March 3, 2021, over unified Republican opposition. The day before, a Republican lawyer argued before the Supreme Court that the Republican party needs voter suppression laws that disproportionately impact voters of color in order to compete with Democrats. But, the fight to stop voter suppression isn’t just limited to Washington. I am committed to advancing racial, gender, LGBTQ, disability justice and indigenous sovereignty, and lobbying to undo racist voting laws at the NM Legislature. I respectfully ask for ask for your vote of confidence. Thank you.

    • Willie Williams

      Why are you running? I am running for precinct chair because I am interested in bringing cultural diversity and awareness to the elected positions in the city of Espanola. There is a need for change in leadership for the citizens and I am that person. I come with the leadership experience of being chairperson of the largest LD in the congressional district that put a blue dot on a red state in 2 elections in Nebraska. I was also a delegate to 2012 Democratic National Convention.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Paul Flaherty

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Carlos Marquez

    • Paul Flaherty

    • Terry Mace

Precinct 68: Ranchitos – El Llano, ward 1

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 3 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Chris Roybal

      Why are you running? I want to become more involved in the Democratic process.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Theresa V. Quintana

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Theresa V. Quintana

    • Jannelle Jacquez Lujan

  • none

Precinct 69: Fairview B, ward 1

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 6 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Tessa Jo Mascarenas

      Why are you running? I’ve been a passionate Democrat for my entire life and would like to use my experience and education to help the party progress.

    • Elsie Casados

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Joe Salazar

    • Isaac Dakota Casados

      Why are you running? I am running for County Chair because I believe our best days are ahead of us and we must rebuild what we have lost as a county Democratic Party.

      The days of disarray and division must stop.

      I have worked tirelessly for over two decades to elect Democrats in Rio Arriba County and statewide. I served as co-chair for then Attorney General Tom Udall’s Campaign for the US Congress (1999) and recently as a pivotal member of Sen. Leo Jaramillo and Rep. Roger Montoya’s successful campaigns.

      Together, I will ensure we have candidates that uphold our strong Democratic and progressive tenets. I will work to remove fear and intimidation from our local elections. I will foster collaboration, communication, advocacy, acceptance and action. I will work to give voice to those without and welcome new voices– our Native American pueblos and the Jicarilla Apache Nation, LGBTQ, Sikh community, minorities, our youth and young adults, and every other marginalized person– under a new Democratic tent.

      I will stand strong with the people of this beautiful community and work tirelessly to build a party that recognizes our vast diversity and builds a foundation for younger Democrats who will one day lead this party.

    • Alfonso Duran

      Why are you running? I have served as a precinct chair and RAC Democrat party Secretary in the past for 12 plus years.I bring experience and as a life long Democrat who is not afraid to state my political difference to anyone who degrades the Democratic Party.

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC (5 seats):

    • Joann V. Salazar

      Why are you running? I am both honored and humbled by the overwhelming support that I have received by Democrats asking me to seek re-election as Chair of the DPRAC. In the last 2 years we have seen the party grow in diversity and we met the challenges that kept our county BLUE! We know that when we volunteer, we don’t do so for popularity or fame but to get Democrats elected. As your DPRAC Chair, I will:

      • build upon our foundation of inclusiveness, support and promote members of our diverse community to establish caucuses that work collectively with others across the state
      • create and sustain a quarterly newsletter
      • work with precinct and wards to increase new voter registration projects
      • lead the fight to establish a fair redistricting plan for our county
      • continue our monthly CCC meetings by virtual means and in person when COVID restrictions are lifted
      • most importantly, mobilize to elect Democrats to office
      • create and sustain a quarterly newsletter work with precinct and wards to increase new voter registration projects
      • lead the fight to establish a fair redistricting plan for our county
      • continue our monthly CCC meetings by virtual means and in person when COVID restrictions are lifted
      • most importantly, mobilize to elect Democrats to office

      Like many of you, my roots are in Northern New Mexico. My work experience as an elected official with the Espanola Public Schools Board of Education, a member of the DPNM DPNM Platform Committee, working along side with now Congresswoman Deb Holland, a Deputy Director for now Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, a Bureau Chief (overseeing over 3 million in state and federal funds), a Director of a non-profit/free clinic in Santa Fe, and as a a board member of the Santa Fe/Del Norte (now regionally now regionally combined) Boys and Girls Club, and as a member of the DPNM SCC, I will continue to bring voters to the table to keep us RIO ARRIBA STRONG! Thank you for your support. I remain humbled by your vote and will be your strongest advocate.

    • Ronald J. Casados

    • Elsie Casados

    • Patricia A. Thomas

    • Gilbert Padilla

    • Chris Valdez

    • Carol Sharpe

    • Isaac Dakota Casados

    • Ernie Velarde

    • Don Bustos

    • Joe Salazar

Precinct 70: Chimayo (Lower), ward 1

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 5 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Kathryn Gold

      Why are you running? I have lived in Chimayó for 20 years and have always tried to help my neighbors any way I can. I hope I can continue to serve others by becoming precinct chair. I would like to see greater participation in the Party by all members of our community, and to build a vibrant Democratic Party that can take on the challenges of our current political situation.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Flora Angelina Valdez

      Why are you running? I am running for Precinct Vice Chair because I feel it’s time to get involved. I have approximately 20 years of running meetings at the local and state level. I am able to maintain records for organizations and maintain those records impeccably.

    • Debra Denison

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Lucy Collier

    • Peter Malmgren

    • Debra Denison

    • Angie Trujillo

    • Carlos F Trujillo

    • Kathryn Gold

Precinct 71: Chimayo (Upper), ward 1

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 3 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • James Martinez

    • Mateo Peixinho

      Why are you running? I would like to be a part of revitalization of the democratic party in Chimayo. I have some done some work in this area, with Linda Pedro in 2008 and I am willing to do the hard work to make sure we keep our state on track.

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair:

    • Jimmy Martinez

    • Lisa Trujillo

  • Candidates for seats on the CCC:

    • Susan J. Farrington

    • Justin Garcia Vigil

    • Mateo Peixinho

    • Michelle Holland

    • Lisa Trujillo

Precinct 72: Cordova, ward 1

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 1 seat on the CCC, occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Zachary Vigil

    • Frankie Romero

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none
  • Candidates for seats on the CCC (0 seats):

    • Frankie Romero

Precinct 73: Truchas, ward 1

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 2 seats on the CCC; one is occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair:

    • Reynaldo B. Sandoval

  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none
  • Candidates for seats on the CCC: none

Precinct 74: Ojo Sarco, ward 1

For precinct boundaries, see the map. The precinct has 1 seat on the CCC, occupied by the precinct chair.

  • Candidates for precinct chair: none
  • Candidates for precinct vice-chair: none