By Jacob Trujillo, Chair
Democratic Party of Bernalillo County

Let’s recap some of the amazing things we saw pass both chambers on a range of different topics:

Children and Families

Democrats doubled down on supporting working parents and investing in kids.

• Universal child care was codified into state law, protecting it long term instead of relying on yearly budget decisions.
• Early childhood statutes were strengthened to improve oversight and implementation.

Elections and Government

At a time when democracy is under attack nationally, New Mexico Democrats protected voter rights and increased transparency.

• Armed troops are now prohibited at polling locations.
• Voters will decide whether state legislators should receive salaries.
• We brought an end toImmigration Detention Centers in New Mexico!

Economy, Housing, and Infrastructure

Democrats focused on practical investments that grow the economy and address everyday costs. We saw our Democratic majority, turn after turn, put working families first.

• Revenue bonds were authorized for redevelopment near the Albuquerque state fairgrounds.
• A new tax deduction supports materials used in affordable housing construction.
• A major road and transportation bond package advanced infrastructure funding statewide.
• Capital outlay dollars were directed to local projects across New Mexico.

Health Care

With provider shortages still a challenge, Democrats worked to expand access and strengthen the workforce.

• A $10,000 income tax credit was approved for qualifying physicians practicing in New Mexico.
• Medical malpractice statutes were revised to hopefully stabilize the system.
• Additional revenue strengthened the Health Care Affordability Fund.
• Funding was approved for a new UNM medical school building.
• Interstate licensing compacts for physicians and social workers were expanded.
• Student loan repayment funding increased for medical professionals.

Crime and Public Safety

Democrats balanced accountability with reforms that protect communities.

• Time limits were eliminated for prosecuting certain child sexual abuse offenses.
• Courts received expanded authority in serious mental health cases.
• Penalties increased for aggravated battery against officers.
• A truth-finding commission was created to examine oversight failures connected to Zorro Ranch.

Education

Improving student outcomes remained a priority for our Democratic majority.

• Structured literacy requirements were adopted statewide.
• A new Office of Special Education was created within the Public Education Department.
• Math and literacy reforms advanced to boost student proficiency.

Democrats showed that governing is about delivering results. Instead of division and dysfunction, New Mexico chose progress, investing in families, protecting democracy, and building a stronger future for our state. Truthfully, we didn’t get everything we wanted, and we saw major priorities fail or get stalled, but we know that we are on the right track. If we continue to fight, we will win.

This progress is not guaranteed. Every House seat is on the ballot this year, and what we have built is on the line. We must defend every Democratic seat and protect these gains. In Bernalillo County, we should be aggressively competing for the two remaining Republican held seats. The majority, and the direction of our state, depends on it.