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VOTE411 Voter Guide

State Representative District 16

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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    YANIRA GURROLA VALENZUELA
    (Dem)

Biographical Information

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 Mailing Address PO Box 26716
Albuquerque , NM 87125
Campaign Email yanirahd16@gmail.com
Twitter @@yanira4NM
Campaign Phone 505-289-1201
Campaign Website http://www.yanirafornm.com/
Occupation Teacher
Filing County Bernalillo
I bring both professional experience and a strong record of public service. I’m a longtime teacher, trained engineer, and bilingual educator, and I’ve represented House District 16 since 2023. As an immigrant, I bring a valuable perspective as I work to lower healthcare and housing costs, improve our schools, and support families and infrastructure. After 18 years in this district and 24 years in education, I’ve built deep community ties and a proven record of commitment.
I will continue focusing on education, safety, health, economic opportunity, and the environment. Education is central to my work, and I support a holistic approach that strengthens students, families, and those who support them. That means improving safety, supporting working families, and advancing real solutions that expand opportunity. My record reflects these priorities through work on education, student safety, and opportunity for New Mexicans.
We need to prioritize conservation, protect water quality, and plan for the long term. In our state, we must use our water wisely, invest in water reuse and infrastructure, and make decisions based on clear, reliable information. That also means supporting research at our universities and listening to advocates and communities whose knowledge and experience can help guide better water policy.
New Mexico’s economic development should prioritize job creation, fair wages, business investment, community impact, and environmental sustainability. We must evaluate whether projects create quality jobs, deliver lasting community benefits, and use public resources responsibly. Investments should be transparent, accountable, and aligned with the long-term well-being of New Mexicans—while continuing to diversify our economy for sustainable growth
We’ve made progress, but more must be done to ensure people can access care close to home—including primary care, behavioral health, and preventive services. On the Westside, that means investing in clinics, providers, telehealth, and school-based health centers, while addressing barriers like cost and transportation. We also need to grow our local healthcare workforce. Care should be affordable, accessible, and centered on our community’s needs.