AFT and NEA Endorse Ray Powell for NM Land Commissioner

Racking up those endorsements: In an email to supporters, Democrat Ray Powell revealed that his candidacy in the June 1 primary has been endorsed by both teachers' unions. These endorsements are especially important because the Land Office is responsible for managing the state's public lands in a way that best benefits the funding of education in the state. It's telling that both teachers' unions agree that Ray is the best candidate for that vital mission.

Christine Trujillo, President of the American Federation of Teachers of New Mexico, said:

"Let's get Ray back at the Land Office! The State Land Office matters so much to our schools and our kids. We're committed to doing all we can to make sure he's back at the helm come November."

Sharon Morgan, President of the National Education Association of New Mexico, stated:

"We're pleased to recommend Ray Powell for the State Land Office. He has a proven record of caring and doing the right thing with our public lands when it comes to our school children, parents and education employees."

Powell has previously been endorsed by these organizations:

• Rio Grande Chapter of the Sierra Club
• Conservation Voters New Mexico (CVNM)
• Albuquerque Area Firefighters (IAFF)
• Association of Federal, State and County Employees (AFSCME)
• Teamsters
• Operating Engineers
• IATSE Local 423 – International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees
• Animal Protection Voters

Powell is facing PRC Commissioner Sandy Jones and Santa Fe County Commissioner Harry Montoya in the Democratic primary election.