Democracy for New Mexico

PPP Poll: Heinrich, Wilson Lead in Senate Primaries, Bachmann in GOP Prez Primary

According to of more early Public Policy Polling (PPP) surveys released today, Congressman Martin Heinrich leads State Auditor Hector Balderas by a whopping 47-24 in the Dem primary for the Senate seat open due to the retirement of Senator Jeff Bingaman (D-NM). PPP opines that Heinrich is "bolstered by greater name recognition" and notes:

Although Heinrich is weaker among Hispanics, who make up 46% of the Democratic primary electorate, he still leads Balderas 39-36. However, since a majority of Democratic voters are still unwilling to give an opinion of Balderas, Balderas has more room to grow.

A total of 29% of those surveyed have a favorable opinion of Hector Balderas, with 19% unfavorable and a large number -- 51% -- not sure. In contrast, 50% of those polled see Martin Heinrich in a favorable light, with 20% unfavorable and 27% unsure. 

In the GOP primary for U.S. Senate, Heather Wilson holds the lead against all the other possibles mentioned, 43% to Gary Johnson’s 22%, John Sanchez’s 18%, Greg Sowards’ 4%, and Bill English’s 3%. Without Johnson, Wilson’s reaches majority support with margins of 52% to 24% for Sanchez, 8% for Sowards, and 4% for English. PPP comments that:

Wilson leads by strong margins across the Republican ideological spectrum. She leads Sanchez 48-19 among Moderates and 48-31 among very conservatives.

As for the GOP presidential primary: 

Michele Bachmann has surged to become Mitt Romney’s chief competitor in each state PPP has polled since the last Republican presidential debate, and New Mexico is no different. With Sarah Palin and Gary Johnson in the race, Bachmann leads the pack with 21% to Romney’s 18%, Johnson’s 13%, Palin’s 11%, Herman Cain’s 10%, Tim Pawlenty’s 7%, Newt Gingrich’s 6%, and Ron Paul’s 5%. It’s hard to see how Johnson can win the nomination if he’s stuck in third place in his home state.

Without Johnson, the race is tied with Bachmann and Romney each getting 22% of the vote. They are followed by Palin with 14%, Cain with 10%, Pawlenty and Paul with 7%, Gingrich with 4%, and Jon Huntsman with 3%. Without Palin or Johnson, Bachmann has the lead. She takes 27% to Romney’s 23%, Cain’s 12%, Paul’s 8%, Pawlenty’s 7%, Gingrich’s 6%, and Huntsman’s 4%. Bachmann’s advantage stems from her strength with very conservative voters where she leads Romney more than 2-1.

An article on PPP's blog expands on what the numbers mean in the GOP presidential primary, pointing out that:

Bachmann's lead in New Mexico is built on strong support from the far right. 28% of 'very conservative' voters say she's their top choice to 16% for Palin and 12% for Romney. Johnson has the upper hand with moderate voters- 21% to Romney's 18% and Bachmann's 14%. And Romney has the advantage with voters just to the right of center- 27% to Bachmann's 14% and Johnson's 13% with 'somewhat conservative' folks. But that 'very conservative' voter bloc is the largest part of the Republican electorate in New Mexico at 43% and that lead with them gives Bachmann the overall advantage.

Rather surprisingly:

Johnson has the weakest favorability numbers with his home state Republican primary voters at 47/40. Some of his unorthodox positions aren't playing well with the base, even if they do give him an unusual level of popularity across party lines with Democrats and independents.

Full results and crosstabs are . PPP surveyed 400 usual New Mexico Republican primary voters and 400 usual Democratic primary voters, with a +/-4.9 margin of error, from June 23th to 26th.

See other recent posts on political polling in our archive.

Animal Protection Voters Endorses Martin Heinrich for U.S. Senate

Yesterday, Animal Protection Voters ( ) released the following statement endorsing Martin Heinrich for U.S. Senate, saying he "has a proven and substantial record of both leadership on and support of animal protection issues" like these:

• When serving on the Albuquerque City Council, Heinrich was a leading advocate for wildlife, environmental protection, and companion animals;

• In the U.S. Congress, Martin has fought to protect the jobs, chimpanzees, and federal dollars at the Alamogordo Primate Facility on Holloman Air Force Base from leaving New Mexico. He is an original cosponsor of the Great Ape Protection and Cost Savings Act of 2011; he cosponsored a bill to ban horse slaughter and has voted in support of service dogs for Veterans, to ban animal “crush” videos, and against environmental exemptions for the largest factory farms in the United States;

• Martin responds generously and strategically to constituents who care about the humane treatment of animals.

“Martin has taken his signature approach of creating collaborations among parties to solve difficult problems from New Mexico to Washington, D.C.,” said Laura Bonar, Program Director for Animal Protection Voters. “Voters appreciate his diligent work for basic human decency and compassion toward animals.”

APV noted that New Mexicans value legislators and other elected officials who respect the role that animals play in all our lives. Many citizens believe the government should play an active role in ensuring that animals receive humane care and protection from cruelty and exploitation.

Animal Protection Voters, the political voice for people who care about animals, works to build political capital for animal advocacy across New Mexico.

PPP Poll: Dems Hold Slight Lead in 2012 U.S. Senate Race in NM

Public Policy Polling has  the results (including crosstabs) of a new survey of New Mexico voters on the race to replace Senator Jeff Bingaman (D-NM), who is retiring in  2012. Both Dem primary candidates -- State Auditor Hector Balderas and Rep. Martin Heinrich -- hold slight early leads over their potential GOP rivals:

Balderas 39% v. Lt. Gov. John Sanchez 35%
Balderas 45% v. former Rep. Heather Wislon 39%
Balderas 42% v. businessman Greg Sowards 28% 

Heinrich 45% v. Gov. John Sanchez 39%
Heinrich 47% v. former Rep. Heather Wilson 42%
Heinrich 46% v. businessman Greg Sowards 34% 

In terms of favorability:

Balderas
Favorable: Hispanic 30% -- White 15% -- Other 23% 
Unfavorable: Hispanic 16% -- White 19% -- Other 13%

Heinrich
Favorable: Hispanic 39% -- White 32% -- Other 36%
Unfavorable: Hispanic 31% -- White 35% -- Other 28% 

PPP notes that:

While crossover support is either even or to the Republican’s advantage in each matchup, the Democrats have a significant advantage with independents aside from the Sanchez-Balderas race. In a state where Democrats outnumber Republicans 51-32, that’s a recipe for a Democratic victory.

Aside from Wilson, the field is relatively unknown with 32% or more unwilling to venture an opinion one way or the other on the other candidates. Both Democrats are slightly in positive territory among those who know them. 22% see Balderas favorably compared to 17% who see him unfavorably. Heinrich is better known and about as popular with a 36-32 rating. The Republicans on the other hand are not well liked. Sanchez rates most favorably 23-28, followed by Wilson at 38-45, and Sowards at 7-17. With such low name recognition among the candidates, the race has the potential to be very fluid and the Democrats can’t take it for granted.

The PPP conclusion:

“This race is going to be competitive but it has a clear lean toward the Democrats,” said Dean Debnam, President of Public Policy Polling. “Wilson and Sanchez probably aren’t strong enough candidates to win the seat if Barack Obama simultaneously takes the state by double digits as he did in 2008.” 

The poll was conducted via automated telephone interviews from June 23th to 26th, and has a margin of error of +/-3.6%.

6/28 and 6/30: Heinrich for Senate Fundraisers in Albuquerque

The Martin Heinrich for Senate campaign has announced two fundraisers in Albuquerque before the end-of-quarter FEC reporting deadline:

Tuesday, June 28  -  5:30 - 7:30 PM
RECEPTION at the PARK PLAZA CONDOMINIUMS
1331 Park Avenue SW (one block south of West Central on 14th Street SW) Hosts: Bob McNeill, Mark Michel, Fred Harris, Nancy Berry, Yasmin Dennig, Bob Collins, Susan Harris
Suggested Contribution: $100 - Click here to make a donation online.

Thursday, June 30  -   5:30 - 7:30 PM 
END OF QUARTER FUNDRAISER at O’NIELL’s IRISH PUB
4310 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM
Suggested Contribution: $100 or whatever you can afford. Click here to make an online donation.

Can’t make an event but want to help Martin before June 30th?  Click here.

Hector Balderas for Senate Campaign Announces More Local Supporters

Balderas speaking at recent NALEO Congressional Luncheon

The Hector Balderas campaign has announced that "more New Mexico leaders are continuing to line up to support Hector Balderas' candidacy for United State Senate." Yesterday, Hector accepted the endorsement of elected officials across the state, including:

• New Mexico Senator Richard Martinez (Los Alamos, Santa Fe & Rio Arriba Counties)
• New Mexico Rep. Jim Trujillo (Santa Fe County)
• New Mexico Rep. Antonio Lujan (Dona Ana County) 
• Los Lunas Mayor Robert Vialpando 
• Santa Fe City Councilor, Rosemary Romero
• San Miguel County Commissioner Marcellino Ortiz 
• San Miguel County Commissioner Arthur Padilla 
• Bayard City Councilor Armando Arzola 
• Socorro City Councilor Mary Ann Chavez-Lopez 
• Socorro City Councilor Pete Romero

Socorro City Councilor Mary Ann Chavez-Lopez applauded Hector Balderas' time as New Mexico's top fiscal watchdog. "Being State Auditor for the past five years fighting government fraud, waste and abuse has prepared him for his next challenge -- running for the United States Senate. We need someone in Washington who will manage the budget in order to create jobs, invest in education and protect services for our seniors."  

"I'm delighted to receive the backing from these fine public leaders. The continued outpouring of support our campaign is receiving from local officials is further validation that Washington, D.C. is in dire need of New Mexico values," Balderas said. 

The additions bring the total of 34 elected officials across New Mexico who have endorsed Hector Balderas for United States Senate, according to the campaign.

National Journal Profiles Martin Heinrich, U.S. Senate Race in New Mexico

An article (requires subscription) on today's NationalJournal website profiles Martin Heinrich and his campaign for U.S. Senate in New Mexico, saying that Heinrich "will be one of the most watched Senate contenders next year as Democrats struggle to keep their majority in the chamber." The article notes that, "in a plurality-Hispanic state, with each primary featuring prominent Anglo and Hispanic candidates, New Mexico political observers expect race to play a role," and provides a quote from Heinrich saying he is confident he can compete: 

“I’ve ended up in both a city council race and congressional primary against some Hispanic candidates who really were good candidates, really very sellable folks, who I had a lot of respect for,” Heinrich said. He went on to win those races, he says, by focusing on issues of broad appeal, such as jobs and education.

“I think the thing that works and that transcends all of that is if you care about the issues that are important to families in New Mexico—Hispanic families, Anglo families—if you care about education, and you care about jobs, and you have a record to show that you’re going to work really hard for their kids and for the next generation, those are the things that transcend all of that. And by focusing on those kinds of issues, we’ve done very well in the past, and I think we’ll do very well in the future.”

After describing Heinrich's background, education and previous election wins, the article continues:

Not surprisingly, Heinrich says that jobs and the economy are his top priorities in Congress and have been since he won his seat. “When I go home and I’m in the grocery store on the weekends, that is still the concern that we hear from people,” he said.

He says that his training as a mechanical engineer informs his work in Congress—he’s more focused on gathering information than in ideology. “I really care about the facts, and about data, and about information,” Heinrich said. “I think it just makes me a little more pragmatic.”

The article also includes words of praise and an endorsesment from a noted Texas Hispanic Congressman:

Rep. Silvestre Reyes, D-Texas, sits with Heinrich on the House Armed Services Committee and supports his Senate candidacy. The two lawmakers have worked together, Reyes says, on issues that benefit Texas and New Mexico, and he calls Heinrich hardworking and diligent in his preparation and studying of issues.

“He’s a hardworking guy; he’s a quiet guy—he’s not a vocal guy,” Reyes said. “That doesn’t mean he doesn’t know the issues, and whenever I’ve needed his help, particularly in the committee ... he’s been a great asset and a great ally.”

And -- ta da! -- the article closes with Martin's answer to the official state question, Red or Green?

“I am a big fan of red,” he declared. “One of my favorite things to make is carne adovada with New Mexican elk, and you can’t do that without red.”

Photo credit: From National Journal article, David Lienemann/Getty Images.

New Mexico Land Grant Consejo Members Endorse Hector Balderas for Senate

Balderas at labor rally at Roundhouse

Saying they recognize Hector Balderas' unyielding support for policies that promote and protect land grants/mercedes all across New Mexico, 19 land grants/mercedes communities, part of the New Mexico Land Grant Consejo, endorsed Balderas' candidacy for United States Senate.

Today the Hector Balderas campaign welcomed the endorsements of the following land grants/mercedes leaders:

• Gilbert Ferran, President  - Merced del Pueblo de Abiquiu
• Jesus Anzures, Trustee - Atrisco Land Grant
• Manuel Garciá y Griego, Secretary - Cañon de Carnué  Land Grant
• William Hocker, Trustee -  Cebolleta Land Grant 
• Leonard Martinez, President  - San Joaquin del Rio de Chama Land Grant 
• Lawrence E. Sánchez, President - Town of Tomé Land Grant 
• Rita M. Padilla Gutierrez, Secretary - Town of Tomé Land Grant 
• Juan Sanchez, President - Merced del Pueblo de Chilili 
• Tony Lucero, President -  San Antonio de Las Huertas Land Grant
• Daniel Herrera, Trustee - La Merced del Manzano 
• Anselmo "Chemo" Valerio, Secretary - Cristobal de la Serna 
• Leroy Mondragon, Trustee - Cristobal de la Serna 

"Hector's strong roots in New Mexico and his commitment to ensuring that our culture and integrity are always protected makes me certain that he is best suited to represent us in the United States Senate," Gilbert Ferran, the President of the Merced del Pueblo Abiquiu, said in a statement released today.

Juan Sanchez, President of the Merced del Pueblo de Chilili agreed. "As a public official and as a person, Hector Balderas has always been guided by a simple principle: social and economic justice for all.  He understands that maintaining our land grants/mercedes is vital not just to protect the environment, but also to preserve the cultural traditions that we all hold dear." 

"I am grateful to receive the support from these fine leaders. Community dedication to protecting its land and homes is a value that was instilled in me at an early age while growing up in Wagon Mound. The New Mexico Land Grant Consejo embodies this mentality in an inspiring way.  Every day their members fight to ensure that the character and traditions of New Mexico are always maintained," Hector said.  

"One of my favorite aspects of this campaign is traveling across our state and being reminded of the national treasure that New Mexico is. The community leaders fighting to protect New Mexico's land grants/mercedes are the people I'm running for Senate to fight for," Balderas concluded.

New Mexico Native Congressman Joe Baca Endorses Martin Heinrich for Senate

Today, New Mexico native Congressman Joe Baca (D-CA) endorsed Martin Heinrich in his bid to represent New Mexico in the U.S. Senate.

"Martin and I share the experience of growing up in a hard working family—and the fundamental belief in providing a better future for the next generation. He has what it takes to lead and represent the great people of New Mexico. As a native New Mexican and veteran, I am extremely proud to support Martin Heinrich in his race for Senate,” said Baca.

A former chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and an influential leader in the Hispanic community, Baca continued, “Martin’s commitment to standing up for hard working families and improving the academic achievements and opportunities in our Hispanic communities is essential to the future of New Mexico and to our nation.”

“I am humbled by Congressman Baca’s support and truly honored to earn his endorsement,” Heinrich said.

U.S. Congressman Joe Baca was born in Belen, New Mexico, the youngest of 15 children. Baca worked as a laborer for the Santa Fe Railroad until he was drafted in 1966. He served in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper with both the 101st and the 82nd Airborne Divisions from 1966-68.

First elected to the California State Assembly in 1992 and the California State Senate in 1998, Baca has served in the U.S. Congress since 1999. A 2009 report released by Latino Leaders Magazine listed Baca as one of the top 100 most influential Hispanic leaders in the United States.

Martin Heinrich Senate Campaign Boosted by Messages from Fred Harris and Other Prominent Dem Supporters

Heinrich at South Valley Pride Day in Albuquerque

In an innovative move, Martin Heinrich's campaign for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Sen. Jeff Bingaman has been emailing messages to Dem voters from prominent New Mexico political figures who are backing Heinrich in the Democratic primary race. Rather than trumpeting individual endorsements via generic press releases, the campaign has been distributing positive fundraising messages written by the individual supporters themselves that urge others to formally endorse the campaign.

So far, Dem politicos sending supportive messages include:

• Former US Senator, presidential candidate, DNC Chair and UNM professor Fred Harris
• State Rep. Joni Gutierrez of Dona Ana County
• State Sen. Jerry Ortiz y Pino of Albuquerque
• Hobbs City Commissioner Joe Calderon
• State  Sen. Steve Fischmann
• Albuquerque City Councilor Debbie O'Malley
• Former Gallup City Councilor Mary Ann Armijo

The campaign knows that getting out in front early on fundraising can make a huge difference in a primary campaign like the one Heinrich is running against State Auditor Hector Balderas. With the close of the current fundraising quarter coming up on June 30th, every campaign donation dollar helps.

Here are excerpts from the messages the Heinrich backers are sending to possible donors and supporters:

Fred Harris:
"As a former US Senator, I know what it takes to deal with challenges on Capitol Hill, which is why I am supporting Martin Heinrich for Senate. Will you join me in supporting Martin and sign our petition to show you are part of Team Heinrich?

"Martin has a proven track record of fighting for New Mexico. He’s saved jobs at Kirtland and created opportunities for business to create jobs right here at home. 

"As a leader on the frontlines of the social issues that matter most, Martin fights to protect our environment, works to save seniors from cuts to Social Security and Medicare, and stands up for our individual rights - Martin has always been there for us.

"Once Martin is elected he can hit the ground running. He knows the issues and what it takes to get the job done. He also knows how to win elections. In one of the worst election years ever, with millions of dollars spent against him, Martin was still able to win re-election. The stakes are too high and the margin in the Senate is too tight, which is why we need Martin."

Rep. Joni Gutierrez, Sen. Jerry Ortiz y Pino, Commissioner Joe Calderon, Sen. Stephen Fischmann, Councilor Debbie O’Malley, Mary Ann Armijo:
"Martin Heinrich is our choice to be the next US Senator from New Mexico and we want to invite you to join us on his team. We have known Martin for years and there is nobody better qualified to represent us in the United States Senate.

"Martin’s work ethic, sensibility and sense of duty to his constituents set him apart as a rare breed. Now that he is running for Senate, he will need our help more than ever. We cannot let him down. Help me join Martin with a contribution of $25, $50, $100 or whatever you can afford to get a Martin into the Senate!

"We have all talked with Martin recently and he told us of his ambitious goal - to raise $50,000 before the Federal Election Commission deadline on June 30th! We are trying to help Martin meet this goal and keep his momentum strong.

"We have a rare opportunity to send someone to Washington that knows what it means to serve the community and has our goals in mind. Join him on Facebook to stay up to date on his campaign and make sure that we help him every step of the way.

"We have all run for office and can attest that it is a long and arduous endeavor that cannot be successfully done alone."

Building a diverse and wide-ranging Team Heinrich is obviously one of his campaign's most important goals, especially given the fact that NM-01 Congressman Heinrich has never before run in a statewide race. To be successful, he has to reach out to all corners of the state and garner strong support from all three congressional districts. This effort, along with the start of a statewide listening tour and meet and greets by Rep. Heinrich, are aiming to do just that.

Four More Labor Unions Endorse Martin Heinrich for U.S. Senate

Four additional labor organizations have announced their endorsement of Martin Heinrich for U.S. Senate. The Heinrich campaign noted that the unions were "joining thousands of working families across New Mexico in support of his bid for the U.S. Senate."

In recent weeks, the New Mexico Building and Construction Trades Council, the United Transportation Union, the New Mexico Communication Workers of America and Sheet Metal Workers Local 49 have all endorsed Martin's candidacy for U.S. Senate.

“For your support and leadership in the community and your stellar Labor voting record, we are proud and honored to endorse your candidacy,” Ray Baca, Executive Director of the New Mexico Building and Construction Trades Council, said. "We know you will serve the people of New Mexico well as our next Senator."

“Congressman Heinrich has always been interested in and supported the concerns of railroad workers and our retirees,” United Transportation Union New Mexico legislative director Dennis Baca said.

“It's an incredible honor to have the support of even more New Mexican working families,” Heinrich said. "I'm energized by the all the great people I'm meeting as I continue to travel around the state and listen to those on the front-lines of rebuilding our economy.”

The New Mexico Building and Construction Trades Council includes the following unions:

• Asbestos Workers #76
• Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local # 3
• Elevator Constructors #131
• International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Shipbuilders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers #627
• International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers #583
• International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local #611
• Ironworkers #495
• Laborers #16
• Operating Engineers #953
• Painters #823
• Plasterers & Cement Masons #254
• Plumbers and Pipe Fitters #412
• Roofers #123
• Sheet Metal Workers #49
• Sprinkler Fitters #669
• Teamsters #492

Rep. Heinrich is getting strong union support early on in his campaign. Ten other major unions have previously endorsed his U.S. Senate run. See our earlier post.

Photo by Stephen Jones.

IAFF Local 2059 Santa Fe Firefighters Association Endorses Hector Balderas for US Senate

Citing his commitment to New Mexico's emergency service members, the Santa Fe Firefighters Association, International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) Local 2059, today endorsed Hector Balderas for United States Senate.

David Jenkins, President, Santa Fe Firefighters Association, IAFF Local 2059, praised Hector's ability to tackle the problems plaguing our politics. "As firefighters, when we see a problem -- whether it be a fire or an accident -- we fix it. No questions asked. Hector Balderas takes the same approach to governing because he understands that, like firefighters, he is a public servant who defends the people of New Mexico. Far too many politicians forget this. Not Hector."

New Mexico Rep. Miguel Garcia (D-Bernalillo County), Chairman of the House Labor & Human Resources Committee, said he supports the endorsement in a statement released today. "Firefighters protect us and Hector Balderas protects workers. I've seen firsthand the vigor with which Hector stands with emergency service members and I'm thrilled that the Santa Fe Firefighters Association, IAFF Local 2059, has joined the campaign. Today's endorsement is emblematic of the people-first, grassroots campaign that Hector Balderas is running."

"Firefighters are our country's heroes. I am honored to receive the support of the Santa Fe Firefighters Association, International Association of Firefighters Local 2059," Balderas said." Every day we rely on these brave men and women to safeguard our communities. They put their own lives in danger to protect ours.  And they do it without fanfare, without seeking recognition, and often without ample resources."  

"Today there are mutual pledges of support. Just as our firefighters are supporting my campaign, I vow always to support firefighters. I will fight for the needed resources for emergency services to do the incredibly important jobs that keep us safe. Those seeking to cut already cash-strapped fire stations fail to comprehend or appreciate the obligation to make the investments to secure our communities. I look forward to working with the Association in the months ahead to bring the values instilled in fire fighters to Washington, D.C.," Balderas concluded in his written statement.  

Martin Heinrich: Senate Campaign Stops in Portales, Clovis Saturday 6/18

Martin Heinrich's campaign reports he is on the road to meet with and listen to New Mexicans across the state and engage and mobilize communities in his campaign for the United States Senate. On Saturday, Martin will march in the Portales Heritage Days Parade beginning at 10 AM and hold a public meet and greet from 2 PM to 3:30 PM in Clovis. Follow Martin on the road via Facebook and Twitter.

Saturday, June 18 
Portales Heritage Days Parade and Festival
Corner of Avenue O and Rt. 70; City Park
Portales, NM
Beginning at 10 AM  

Saturday, June 18 
Clovis Meet and Greet
Sandra’s Home Cooking
1620 Mabry Dr Clovis, NM 
2:00 PM to 3:30 PM