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NM State Senator District 19

Represents a district in the New Mexico State Senate, which has 42 members. In odd-numbered years, the legislature meets for 60 days; in even-numbered years, it meets for 30 days. The Governor may call for special sessions. Senators sponsor and vote on “reasonable and appropriate laws,” represent the constituents of their districts, and serve on legislative committees. Positions are unpaid, except for per diem expenses. Elected for a four-year term.

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  • Candidate picture

    Catherine Ann McDivitt (write-in)
    (Lib)

  • Candidate picture

    William Burton Scott
    (Dem)

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    Ant L. Thornton
    (Rep)

Biographical Information

What abilities do you have that qualify you for this office?

What is your top priority, and how do you plan to address it?

What additional water policies and actions, if any, are needed in New Mexico?

What, if anything, should be done to improve public safety?

What programs or actions, if any, would you support to provide more affordable housing?

How can New Mexico diversify its economy?

Should legislators be paid a salary? Why or why not?

Campaign Phone 505-369-1174
Occupation Retired Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist
I am an American citizen. I was educated in parochial schools in grade school and public high school and college. I completed my college degree in a scientific field of study ( nutrition ) and was employed in medical services for my whole working career. I have adapted to the tech explosion from dial telephones and letter writing to satellite instant communication. I pride myself in competency, truth and commitment.
As a senior New Mexico citizen, personally I am frustrated by the mediocrity of medical services here. I have had four primary care doctors in the last 6 years move away and then had to wait 6 months for a different provider. This is unsatisfactory. Having lived in other states, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Texas, I know firsthand that their medical services are superior to New Mexico. Retaining the current doctors plus attracting more physicians to our state is top priority.
No additional policies are needed. In fact, getting government out of the way would almost certainly improve people's access to water.

We all suffer when public safety systems fail. Like education, we suffer a failing grade for the Albuquerque police department. The state legislature must fix the laws to protect our law enforcement officers instead of making them scapegoats for a failed court system.
The "projects" in Detroit, Michigan are an example of failed public "affordable housing". In fact the 6 high-rise buildings there have now all been demolished because they were too unsafe to inhabit. We must look to the private sector to provide more affordable housing.
New Mexico has the natural environment to attract retired citizens. However the poor records of public safety and sub optimal health care is a huge deterrent. Let's fix underlying problems with these and economy will improve.
No, I think we have many people who are able serve others in this job on a part time basis. Salary would lead to excessive taxation and another bloated bureaucracy. One state I recently resided in has the expense of one million dollars per legislator! I do not want to condemn New Mexico taxpayers to further encumbrance of state spending their money.
Campaign Mailing Address PO Box 1041
Cedar Crest, NM 87102
Campaign Email billfornm@gmail.com
Campaign Phone 505-378-5957
Campaign Website http://www.tiny.cc/sd19
Occupation Retired Miltary
As a veteran of the Army for over 22 years, I understand that a state senator is not only a leader but a servant to the constiuents. I'll endeavor to be an effective communicator to listen then articulate the district's needs. My decisions are information based after analysing complex issues, and I always look for win-win outcomes that will bring about a positive change.
High violent crime and poor economic conditions are so interlinked that they are not seperate issues. New Mexico needs solutions to prevent the conditions that draw people into violent criminal behavior.

I pledge to revitalize community policing, improve the criminal justice system, encourage business in New Mexico, affect universal provision of high-quality childcare that is affordable for all, rebuild the link between economic prosperity and wages, and rehabilitate victims of drug abuse.
Implementing comprehensive water policies is crucial to ensure sustainable water management. First, water conservation is crucial. It should include public awareness campaigns, incentives for efficient water use, and regulations promoting water-saving technologies. Next, water management should include clear and fair water rights system that ensures equitable distribution and sustainable use that consider factors like population growth and the local ecosystem changing needs.
Community policing brings about improved public safety in many ways. When law enforcement takes the approach to build strong bonds between police officers and the community they serve, it helps to build trust and cooperation. Policing strategies then can address specific needs of the community, focus on the root cause of security concern, and work with community members to develop preventive measures. This collaborative approach leads to increased crime reporting and safer environments.
Housing cooperatives are one of the best way to organically bring about affordable housing. I would support providing financial incentives to help with startup costs and offer resources for technical assistance. This allows for people of low-to-middle income have access to safe and affordable housing options.
New Mexico can diversify its economy by focusing on sectors like renewable energy, tourism, and technology. These sectors have a great potential for growth and can contribute to a more sustainable and diverse economy.
Yes, initially citizen legislators sounds noble: New Mexican residents taking time out of their lives to pass laws and budgets not out the love of money but for the love of New Mexico. The reality is, however, only individuals wealthy enough to sustain themselves through the session can become legislators. It stifles diversity, and New Mexicans deserve legislators that are in Santa Fe longer than 1 or 2 hectic months.
Campaign Mailing Address 11 Anasazi Ct
Sandia Park, NM 87047-8529
Campaign Phone 817-946-4175
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