State Representative District 34
State Representatives sit in the New Mexico House of Representatives, which is the lower house of New Mexico. Representatives introduce and vote on proposed laws, serve on legislative committees, and participate in hearings, floor debates, fact-finding and investigations. They also may assist constituents with issues and problems the constituents may have with government agencies within New Mexico. Term: Two years; no term limits.
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RAYMUNDO LARA
(Dem)
1. What qualifies you for this office?
2. How would you address your highest priorities?
3. How should the legislature address future water needs in an increasingly arid state?
4. What criteria should be applied when considering proposed large economic development projects?
5. What more can be done to ensure that residents have adequate access to health care in your district?
mailingstate
NM
Campaign Phone
575-305-6611
Occupation
Educator
Filing County
Dona Ana
I’ve served as State Representative for House District 34 since being elected in 2018 and bring nearly two decades of experience in public education with Gadsden ISD. I currently serve in a House leadership role and on committees focused on education, infrastructure, and economic development. I’m deeply rooted in this region and understand the needs of our border and rural communities. My approach is collaborative and focused on delivering real results that improve quality of life for families across southern Doña Ana County.
My priorities are improving quality of life, strengthening infrastructure, supporting education, and growing our economy. I focus on securing funding for critical projects like water, roads, and quality of life projects, while supporting teachers and expanding educational opportunities for our students. I work to align workforce development with industry needs to attract good-paying jobs. Collaboration is key, I partner with local, state, and federal entities to maximize resources and ensure long-term, sustainable growth.
We are already in a severe drought, with declining snowpack and limited rainfall, making this a current crisis. The Legislature must prioritize conservation, modernize infrastructure, and invest in solutions like aquifer recharge, reuse, and stormwater capture. We must also account for legal obligations under Texas v. New Mexico, which place additional pressure on our limited supply. That makes long-term planning and regional coordination even more critical. Every policy decision must reflect that our water is scarce and legally constrained.
The state and local governments have different roles, but local governments are the primary decision-makers because companies typically approach them first. Counties and municipalities evaluate land use, zoning, infrastructure capacity, and community fit. They are closest to residents and best positioned to determine if a project aligns with local priorities. The state’s role is broader, setting policy, offering incentives, and ensuring accountability. Successful projects require alignment with local decisions.
Access to health care in our district is shaped by our proximity to Texas, where many residents already seek care across state lines. We should strengthen coordination with regional providers while continuing to expand services on our side of the border. That means recruiting and retaining providers, investing in local urgent care, primary care, and diagnostic services, and improving affordability. Telehealth can also help bridge gaps. A regional approach is key to improving outcomes in border communities.
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