Democracy for New Mexico

DFA-DFNM Meetup Tonight: Jennifer Ford, Eric Griego, Tim Keller

It's that time again. Our regular monthly Albuquerque DFA-DFNM Meetup is set for tonight, March 6 at 7:00 PM at the Social Hall of the First Unitarian Church at Carlisle and Comanche. If you'll be attending, join the group and/or RSVP now.

This Meetup we'll hear from Jennifer Ford, Executive Director of the New Mexico chapter of America Votes, on the group's study on local voter demographics and more as we gear up for encouraging participation in the coming elections. Click to check out the many local organizations, including DFNM, that are members of the America Votes Coalition.

Two progressive Dem primary challengers for the New Mexico Legislature will also be reaching out to our group: Former City Councilor and mayoral candidate Eric Griego is running for State Senate in District 14 in the S. Valley/Downtown area. And fresh face Tim Keller just announced his candidacy for State Senate in District 17 in the SE Heights.

If we want to get rid of some of the "dead wood" status-quo Dems who've been blocking progress in the Legislature on issues like public campaign financing, ethics reform and achieving universal health coverage, we need to help more and better Dems get elected to replace them.

We can and should support progressive candidates like these even if we don't live in their districts. We'll soon be conducting a process that will provide DFA-DFNM endorsements in several legislative races including these two, so it's important to take advantage of this opportunity to get to know these candidates and their positions.

We'll also be discussing what's on your minds during this exciting time to be a Democrat. Come on down.

Joel Davis Kicks Off Campaign for State Senate, District 10

The Friends of Joel Davis cordially invite you to join us for the first event in support of Joel Davis, Democrat for NM Senate District 10! Joel Davis is a positive voice for change!

When: Wednesday, March 5, 6:00 PM
Location: Q-Bar in Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town
800 Rio Grande Boulevard NW, Albuquerque
View MAP  Phone: (505) 401-7901

Arrive promplty for complimentary Apricot Red Chile Glazed Chicken Skewers, Marinated Duck Taquitos, Red Corn Tortilla Chips and Assorted Salsas, and Grilled Brie! Help us to hit the ground running with energy and momentum!

This event is co-sponsored by the following individuals:

• Denise Aguilar, Esq.
• Jennifer Anderson, Esq.
• Jaxon Ayala
• Marcos Baca
• Tamara Baca
• Mario Benavidez
• Josh Boone, Esq.
• Jason Burnette, Esq.
• George Chandler, Esq.
• Jake Chavez, Esq.
• Mia Chavez, Esq.
• Marsella Duartes
• Sarah Gorman, Esq.
• Alain Jackson, Esq.
• John Kelley, Esq.
• Alex Limkin, Esq.
• Sean McAfee, Esq.
• Clara Moran, Esq.
• Richard Moran, Esq.
• Elena Moreno, Esq.
• Ann Marie Padilla
• Michael Plante, Esq.
• Anthony Ramirez
• Sam Roybal, Esq.
• Alex Russell, Esq.
• Laura E. Sanchez, Esq.
• Delilah Tenorio, Esq.
• Omar Trujillo
• Pilar Trujillo
• Adan Trujillo, Esq.
• Ted Trujillo, Esq.
• Christina A. Vigil, Esq.
• Lisa Vigil

Campaign website coming soon at https://joeldavis.org/.

Thursday: Sen. Cisco McSorley Reelection Celebration

From the Committee to Elect Cisco McSorley Senate District 16, 415 Wellesley Place NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106: You're invited to celebrate with Cisco McSorley as he prepares to run for re-election as New Mexico State Senator. Please join us Thursday, March 6 from 5:30 - 7 PM at O'Neill's Pub in Nob Hill at 4310 Central Ave SE, ABQ 87108. More info: mcsorley4nm@earthlink.net.

Voters Excited at Tim Keller's Campaign Launch

City Councilor Rey Garduño (R) introduces Tim Keller at campaign launch

Democrat Tim Keller launched his campaign for State Senate in District 17 last Saturday at El Norteño restaurant in Albuquerque with an energized crowd in attendance. If you don't know about Keller, his background and his candidacy, you should. Be sure to check out his campaign website for all the details.

At last Saturday's campaign launch

We often talk about supporting challengers to the status quo in the NM Legislature, and this is a good opportunity to do just that. Whether you live in District 17 in the SE Heights or elsewhere, Keller's campaign would love to have you volunteer or make a small donation to the cause. Tim is running a grassroots campaign focused on lots of door knocking, reaching out to community organizations and contacting as many of the district's constituents as possible to listen to residents' concerns and talk about the issues.

Tim (C) talking with supporters

Keller is finding that many constituents have had little or no contact with their current State Senator in recent years. One of Keller's aims is to change that dynamic and work on developing close and enduring two-way relationships with those he intends to serve. He believes many of the District's pressing needs have been neglected and that residents' voices have gone unheard on a number of issues for too long. Calls for change and renewal are being heard at all levels of politics this year, and I think Keller is an excellent match for the times. He'd bring fresh and creative ideas and energy to his District and to the Roundhouse.

Tim with his littlest supporter, Mario Benavidez

A strong backer of ethics and campaign finance reform, Keller supports an independent commission to investigate complaints against state officials, publicly financed campaigns for legislative offices, campaign contribution caps and government benchmarking to bring measurable accountability. He has pledged to fight for affordable and accessible health care, better education, safer neighborhoods and new jobs.

Tim with his childhood neighbors

The Dem nomination for State Senate in this district and others around New Mexico will be determined at the June 3, 2008 primary election. The incumbent Dem running in District 17 is Shannon Robinson.

Dr. Javier Aceves, Dr. Norty Kalishman

Meet Tim at Thursday's Meetup
Tim Keller will be one of the speakers at the next Albuquerque DFA-DFNM Meetup on Thursday, March 6, at 7:00 PM at the Social Hall at the First Unitarian Church at Carlisle and Comanche. To join the group and/or RSVP for the Meetup click here.

Above: crowd at campaign kickoff; members of Tim's family. Below: enthusiastic supporters; Charlie Bennett and Deanna Archuleta.

See my previous posts on Tim Keller's candidacy here and here. For additional coverage of 2008 NM legislative races, visit our archive.

Reminder: Today at 2:30 PM, Tim Keller Campaign Launch

I met with Tim Keller this past week and was very impressed with his ideas, energy and positions on the issues. I think he'll be a formidable candidate for State Senate in District 17 if he gets the support he needs. Whether we live in his district or not, I think it's important that we support candidates of Keller's caliber and ethical focus who would put the people's needs over those of vested special interests in the New Mexico Legislature. Today's event provides a great opportunity for you to meet Tim and make up your own mind:

Join Us for Tim Keller's Campaign Launch
for State Senate District 17 on Sunday, 2/24!
New Leadership Working for Us!
Tim is the change we need.

Please join friends, family, and  community leaders for
Tim's campaign kick-off for New Mexico State Senate!
Bring your friends and family
(light hors d'oeuvres and beverages will be provided)!

Sunday, February 24 2008
from 2:30 - 4:30 PM
El Norteño Restaurant
6416 Zuni Rd SE, ABQ 87108
Click here! for a map Tim's Campaign Launch is Proudly Hosted by the Following Supporters
Dely Alcantara
Dr. Javier Aceves
Sandy Buffett
Cristy Carbón-Gaul
Javier Benavidez
Enrique Cardiel
Leanne Leith
Steve Estrada
Janet Page Reeves
John Fitzpatrick
Ona Porter
Teckkiam "Chhor" Chang
Shannon Bacon
Charlie Bennet
Steve Whitman
Nancy Bearce
Rachel LaZar
Tomas Garduno
Steve Whitman
And Albuquerque City Council Vice President Debbie O'Malley

RSVP's are appreciated please contact: info@timkellerfornewmexico.com or call Tim at 400-0415.
Visit our website at www.TimKellerForNewMexico.com. Thanks for your support!

Tim Keller for New Mexico
11023 Vistazo Pl SE
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87123
505-332-9441

Also see our previous post on Tim Keller's campaign.

To see our previous coverage on 2008 New Mexico legislative races, visit our archive.

State Senate District 10: Democrat Victor Raigoza Announces Candidacy

From the Victor Raigoza Campaign:
Albuquerque financial advisor and community activist, Victor P. Raigoza, recently announced that he will seek the democratic nomination for State Senate District 10 – an area that encompasses the Northeast Heights, North Valley, Los Ranchos, Corrales, and parts of Rio Rancho.

A familiar face to local residents, Raigoza recently led a community coalition to defeat corporate retail giant, Wal-Mart in a campaign to build a ‘super store’ in the North Valley. The effort not only preserved landing space for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, but united divergent business and neighborhood interests toward a common goal as a result.

“When the battle to preserve the site for Albuquerque’s signature event began, victory was very much in doubt,” the 43-year-old Raigoza said, “But just as David battled Goliath, a caring and united community emerged to defeat an imposing giant. I was proud to play a leading role in an effort that preserved our local interests alongside soccer fields and the Fiesta’s balloon landing sites – efforts that I will build upon as New Mexico State Senator.”

In fact, Raigoza has been battling on behalf of Albuquerque residents in a variety of causes for the past several years. In 2006, Albuquerque Mayor Martin Chavez, appointed Raigoza to serve on the city’s Accountability and Government Oversight Committee – a group that monitors and approves municipal audits to ensure that the city is serving as a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars.

Since 2003, he has also served as Vice President of the New Mexico Holocaust and Intolerance Museum – raising funds for the institution while fostering an appreciation for diversity among residents. 

Raigoza also serves on the Board of Directors for the University of New Mexico’s Popejoy Center for the Arts, where he has helped raise funds and served as arts ambassador; and as a director for the Janke Scholarship, where he helps recognize outstanding teachers and instructors statewide. Late last year, he also helped establish a memorial scholarship fund in his hometown of Pueblo, Colorado.

“Even as we identify the problems that plague us a community, I was raised to believe that it was my responsibility to be a part of the solution,” Raigoza said. “That’s why I’ve consistently lent my support towards those causes and organizations that are important to the region’s residents. If elected, I will not stop until I find the right solutions for Senate District 10 and the families of New Mexico.”

District 10 households likely will relish the sound fiscal and economic representation that Raigoza will provide as State Senator.  A successful Edward Jones financial advisor who has managed millions in monetary investment for hundreds of clients both statewide and nationally, Raigoza has visited Washington, D.C. on several occasions to lobby Congress for policies favorable to the pocketbooks of New Mexico’s families.

Given his experience as a money manager, and his growing stature as a limited partner in the Edward Jones firm, Raigoza understands the complex economic challenges facing New Mexico’s businesses and families. 

“New Mexicans are struggling to make ends meet, and their efforts are made all the more difficult by rising energy costs and a health care system that is no longer affordable or accessible to the average resident,” Raigoza said. “I am running because it is time for the people of District 10 to have a senator who will be their voice during uncertain economic times.”

“In the Senate, I’ll develop legislation that will help families, particularly as it relates to the provision of affordable and accessible health care, job creation and workforce training, and educational opportunities for residents of all incomes and backgrounds,” Raigoza said.

And though his passion to serve is unmatched, Raigoza’s run for State Senate is rooted in recent tragedy.  His close friend and campaign manager, 23-year-old Army Sgt. James C. Akin, was killed last June while serving in Iraq. 

“I’m dedicating this campaign to James, in whose life, service and friendship I still find great inspiration,” Raigoza said. “I miss him immensely, but I know that he’ll be right there throughout this campaign, helping me battle on behalf of our families.”

To learn more about Victor’s plans and campaign, you can call him at 505-332-4128 or email victor4senate@gmail.com.

State Senate District 14: Eric Griego Launches Campaign Website

From Eric Griego for State Senate:
I am excited to announce that I have launched my campaign website. I hope you will take time to visit the site, www.EricGriegoforNewMexico.com. I would appreciate your feedback.

Now that the legislative session is over, my fundraising efforts are kicking into high gear again. With the website up, contributions can be made online.  If you haven't done so already, please consider helping my efforts to make progressive change in New Mexico by making a contribution today. To donate, please click here.

Thank you for your support!

PS:  The Governor may call a special session of the state legislature.  If he does, my fundraising efforts will again be put on hold in accordance with state law. Please make a contribution today before the blackout period begins. See below the fold for info on how you can help collect petition signatures.

Please Help Collect Petition Signatures
Along with hard-working volunteers, I am continuing to ask registered voters in Senate District 14 to sign nominating petitions to place my name on the June 3 primary ballot.  Here are the upcoming dates for volunteers to collect nominating signatures:

• Saturday, Feb. 23, 10 am to 1 pm
• Sunday, Feb. 24, 1 pm to 4 pm 
• Saturday, March 1, 2 pm to 5 pm
• Sunday, March 2, 2 pm to 5 pm
• Wednesday, March 5, 4 pm to 6 pm
• Wednesday, March 12, 4 pm to 6 pm

If you cannot participate on these dates, we can make other arrangements with you. Please contact my field coordinator, Marit Tully, at 907-7752 or eric.g.griego@gmail.com, to sign up.

To see our previous coverage of 2008 races for State House and Senate seats, visit our archive.

NM Senate District 17: Tim Keller Announces His Candidacy

From the Tim Keller Campaign:
This Sunday will mark the launch of Tim Keller's Democratic Primary campaign for State Senate, District 17, in Albuquerque's Southeast Heights:

Official Campaign Launch
Sunday, February 24, 2008, 2:00-4:00 PM
El Norteno Restaurant
6416 Zuni Road SE, Albuquerque

A native of Albuquerque, Tim will bring new and ethical leadership to Santa Fe.

"I am running for office because the needs of our district are substantial. As a state senator, I will fight for working families in our district. It's that basic. I will champion affordable and accessible healthcare, ethical government, better education, safer neighborhoods, and new jobs."

Hosting the event are local neighborhood and community leaders as well as elected officials. With his family and neighbors present, Tim will discuss how with the right leadership, meaningful legislation can be passed at the state level.

"Tim will fight for the interests of our community and neighborhoods. That's the sort change we need!," says Nancy Bearce, La Mesa Neighborhood Association, President of the District 6 Neighborhood Coalition.

Tim is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame. After college, he co-founded a non-profit group that helps disadvantaged people in Cambodia. Today, Tim is a business planning consultant. He puts his progressive values and business skills to work volunteering for groups that foster economic opportunities in Albuquerque's Southeast Heights.

Tim Keller has earned the endorsement of Conservation Voters New Mexico.

State Senate District 17 incorporates Albuquerque's Southeast Heights and includes: Elder Homestead,  Fair West, La Mesa, Mirabella, Manzano Manor, Princess Jeanne, Singing Arrow, South Los Altos , South San Pedro Neighborhood, Southeast Heights Neighborhood, Towne Park, Trumbull Village,  Willow Wood neighborhoods. The seat is currently held by Shannon Robinson. 

Please go to www.TimKellerForNewMexico.com for more information.

Host Committee:
Nancy Bearce, Sandy Buffett, Janet Page Reeves, John Fitzpatrick, Charlie Bennet, Dely Alcantara, Steve Estrada, Dr. Javier Aceves, Enrique Cardiel, Shannon Bacon, Javier Benavidez, Teckkiam "Chhor" Chang, Rachel LaZar, Tomas Garduno,  Steven Whitman, Leanne Leith, Cristy J. Carbon-Gaul and Albuquerque City Council Vice President Debbie O'Malley

NM House District 47: Brian Egolf Campaign Events

From Brian Egolf for State Representative, House District 47 in Santa Fe: With just a few weeks to go before candidate filing day, I'm asking you to help me get onto the ballot. Over the next several weekends, the campaign has organized a series of canvasses that will go door-to-door in my district to collect voters' signatures on my nominating petition. This is the only way I can get on the ballot for the June 3 primary, and I hope you can give some time to the campaign by volunteering today to help.

The canvasses will be February 23, March 1, March 8, and March 16. All four will start at 1:00 PM at my office (208 Griffin Street) in downtown Santa Fe. You can find all the information and RSVP by clicking . Please take a minute to volunteer today -- your help will make a huge difference to the campaign.

One final request: during this brief period between the end of the legislative session and the anticipated beginning of the special legislative session, state law allows me to ask for campaign contributions. Would you please click HERE to make a secure online contribution today?  I have two announced opponents in my race, and I need your help to be able to run a strong campaign.

Thanks for your time.  I hope you can help with one of the canvases or with a contribution.  Please let me know if I can be of service to you.

To see our previous coverage of 2008 state legislative seat races in New Mexico, visit our archive.

Help Eric Griego Gather State Senate Petition Signatures

From Eric Griego for State Senate:
We are getting a great response to our efforts to collect nominating signatures to secure my place on the June 3 primary ballot. As volunteers and I have gone door-to-door, the response to my candidacy for State Senate District 14 has been overwhelmingly positive and enthusiastic. Please help me continue this effort by volunteering to help. We will be walking most weekends for the next four to six weeks. Please come join a petition gathering walk. Here are the dates during the rest of February for collecting nominating signatures: 

• Saturday, February 16 - 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
• Sunday, Feb. 17 - 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
• Saturday, Feb. 23 - 10 AM to 12:30 PM
• Sunday, Feb. 24 - 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM

Please contact my Field Coordinator Marit Tully at 907-7752 or eric.g.griego@gmail.com to sign up. You don't need to live in District 14 to help gather signatures.

Eric's Roots and Record
Eric was born and raised in Senate District 14, and still lives in the Barelas neighborhood where he grew up. His family goes back more than ten generations in New Mexico.

As an Albuquerque City Councilor, Eric received national recognition for making campaign public financing a reality. Eric successfully fought for landmark ethics reform that took special interest money out of local politics, making Albuquerque the second city in the nation to publicly finance local elections.

He created an office of Inspector General to investigate fraud and abuse.

Eric also passed the Planned Growth Strategy to better manage development in our community. Eric was recognized by New Mexico Public Interest Group (NM PIRG) for his work on better managing Albuquerque's water supply.

He passed the Quarter Cent for Public Safety that put 100 new police officers on the street and provided funding for desperately needed prevention and treatment programs such as the Metropolitan Assessment and Treatment Services (MATS).

Campaign Team

• Campaign Manager: Neri Holguin, 217-8705, neriholguin@gmail.com
• Field Coordinator: Marit Tully, 907-7752, c/o eric.g.griego@gmail.com
• Fundraising Coordinator: Ann Marie Padilla, 620-2783, annmariepadilla@gmail.com
• Campaign Treasurer: Dely Alcantara

Campaign Headquarters
620 Roma NW, Downtown ABQ (SE corner of 7th Street & Roma)
Mailing address: PO Box 25191, Albuquerque, NM 87125