A Servant-Leader, Not a Career Politician

 

When my state needed me, I was ready to serve—just as I did for our country during Desert Shield and Desert Storm. I first answered the call on the state’s Executive COVID Team, and later by serving New Mexico’s veterans. In both roles, I traveled to every county, supporting New Mexicans through crisis, advocacy, and recovery.

 

Serving as Cabinet Secretary of Veterans Services was one of the greatest honors of my life. I met veterans and their families across our state, and two moments continue to guide my commitment to service: meeting Navajo Code Talker Peter MacDonald, and welcoming our Vietnam War Veterans home after their Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. My belief has always been that none of us serves alone. That is why I established the agency motto, “Every Day is Veterans Day,” to remind us of the enduring sacrifices made by veterans and their families.

 

My campaign motto continues that spirit of service: “Protecting Every Voice, Every Vote, for Every New Mexican.”

 

New Mexico needs more than experience—we need a leader who practices transformational governance, thinks critically, and understands the diverse needs of communities across our state. I am that leader. My service as Cabinet Secretary of Veterans Services, my experience as a Desert Shield/Desert Storm Air Force veteran, and my background as a public health administrator have prepared me to serve you with integrity as your next Secretary of State.