N.M. House of Representatives District 7

Democrat

Danny M. Bernal Jr.

Danny M. Bernal Jr.

Age: 23

Occupation: Belen city councilor; supervisor of assignments at ADC LTD NM

Education: Belen High School diploma, some college University of New Mexico – Valencia Campus (2016-2018)

Previous elected political offices: Belen City Council; current mayor pro tem

Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a DWI or a felony in New Mexico or in another state? “No.”

  1. What in your experience, education, etc., makes you qualified to represent this district in Santa Fe?

“I’m the most qualified and experienced for this seat. My record shows I’ve boosted Belen’s economy by supporting pro-growth policies and projects, rebuilt roads by finding funding, and reduced crime by getting tougher on criminals and the rundown properties that attract them. I plan to do the same for District 7.”

  1. What two projects in Valencia County that could be funded with capital outlay will you support?

“1. Flood control measures. 2. Paving roads. My capital outlay will focus on all communities in the district. Especially the neglected areas of the district. I plan to sit down with each community to see what their priorities are and ensure each of their concerns are addressed.”

  1. How will you support local agencies in the formation of a flood control authority?

“I’m already doing it. I sit on the Belen City Council and the Valencia Association of Local Elected Officials. I’ll vote to establish a flood control authority. I’ll continue to show up and listen to experts, leaders and citizens. As your next representative, I’ll ensure funding for flood prevention.”

Republican

Tanya Mirabal Moya

Tanya Mirabal Moya

Age: 47

Occupation: Level 2 physics/biology teacher at Belen High School

Education: Bachelor of Science in health and wellness from Purdue Global University; Master’s of Science in sports management: coaching and athletic administration from Liberty University

Previous elected political offices: None

Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a DWI or a felony in New Mexico or in another state? “No.”

  1. What in your experience, education, etc., makes you qualified to represent this district in Santa Fe?

“I am not a politician but the love that I have for my community is what drives me to serve it. I have spent the last 10 years pouring into the community as a teacher and coach. I will take that knowledge and passion with me to Santa Fe.”

  1. What two projects in Valencia County that could be funded with capital outlay will you support?

“I would support providing needed equipment to first responders and funding to quality of life projects for our senior citizens and youth.”

  1. How will you support local agencies in the formation of a flood control authority?

“I believe a flood control authority should be established that all entities involved (City of Belen, MRGCD, Valencia County, etc.) can be members to solve the problem.”


N.M. House of Representatives District 8

Republican

Brian Baca (I)

Brian Baca (I)

Age: 51

Occupation: Educator

Education: BA and MAUNM

Previous elected political offices: Appointed to the New Mexico House in January 2022

Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a DWI or a felony in New Mexico or in another state? “No.”

  1. What in your experience, education, etc., makes you qualified to represent this district in Santa Fe?

“I have been in education 29 years as a teacher, coach, and administrator. I am involved at the state and national level in school personnel associations and school safety.”

  1. What two projects in Valencia County that could be funded with capital outlay will you support?

“With the capital outlay funds that I was allocated I was able to fund 18 projects in our community to include police, fire, schools and much needed roads and infrastructure.”

  1. How will you support local agencies in the formation of a flood control authority?

“As a current New Mexico representative, I receive information from both the state and local leaders on the needs and challenges facing our community. As a member of Legislative Finance Committee interim committee will work to share information and opportunities to Valencia County.”

(Editor’s note: Representatives Gail Armstrong (R-49) and Harry Garcia (D-69) did not respond to the News-Bulletin’s questions.)

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The Valencia County News-Bulletin is a locally owned and operated community newspaper, dedicated to serving Valencia County since 1910 through the highest journalistic and professional business standards. The VCNB is published weekly on Thursdays, including holidays both in print and online.