House District 33: Ramona Martinez (D)
Candidate Q&A
Name: Ramona Martinez
Political Party: Democrat
Age: 46
Education: J.D.
Occupation: Attorney
City of Residence: Las Cruces
Campaign Website:
What steps do you believe should be taken to improve New Mexico's economic competitiveness?
We have the talent and resources to grow, but we need better coordination. We should align workforce training, education, infrastructure, and business development so they work together, not in silos. Supporting existing businesses, strengthening partnerships, and creating clear pathways to good-paying jobs will drive sustainable economic growth across our communities.
New Mexico is the only state that does not pay its legislators a salary, though lawmakers do receive per diem payments and can qualify for a legislative pension. Do you support or oppose the proposed constitutional amendment calling for a new legislative salary tied to the median family income level?
Most people don鈥檛 have the luxury of taking 30 or 60 days off each year to serve in the legislature. Providing a salary would make it possible for more working people to serve, leading to a legislature that better reflects the diversity of New Mexico and brings broader perspectives.
With New Mexico now the nation鈥檚 second-highest oil producing state, would you support or oppose changes to the state鈥檚 gross receipts tax and personal income tax structures? Please explain.
I support thoughtful tax reform that uses our energy revenues to provide stability and fairness. That includes examining the gross receipts tax and personal income tax to reduce burdens on working families and small businesses, while ensuring the state can fund essential services and plan responsibly for long-term economic sustainability.
Would you support or oppose imposing water use limits on data centers? In addition, would you generally support or oppose banning data centers in New Mexico?
In an arid state like New Mexico, large projects must be responsible and sustainable. I do not support a blanket ban, but each project should be evaluated to ensure it aligns with our water supply, our regulations, and community needs.
Amid a recent string of high-profile criminal cases involving juvenile defendants, do you support or oppose imposing stricter sentences for adolescents convicted of certain violent crimes?
I鈥檝e been on the front lines of this issue for the last decade. Life sentences already exist, and juveniles can be tried as adults. The issue isn鈥檛 penalties鈥攊t鈥檚 trauma and abuse. We cannot lock our way out; we must fix the abuse and neglect system while ensuring accountability.
Would you support or oppose a ban on selling certain types of firearms, including semiautomatic firearms and machine guns?
As an attorney, I take seriously the responsibility to ensure laws are constitutional and effective. I support common-sense gun safety measures that protect communities while respecting constitutional rights. Any proposals should be carefully evaluated to ensure they are enforceable, effective, and consistent with the Second Amendment, focusing on reducing violence.
Do you support or oppose using New Mexico鈥檚 National Guard to assist local law enforcement with issues related to public safety?
I do not support using the National Guard for routine public safety issues. Local law enforcement should be properly resourced and trained to handle community needs. The Guard has a distinct role and should be reserved for true emergencies, such as natural disasters, where deployment is necessary and appropriate.
What changes would you propose to improve New Mexico鈥檚 Children, Youth and Families Department?
CYFD needs competent, accountable leadership to manage an agency of this size. We must end its siloed, crisis-driven culture and provide clear direction. We need policies that protect children earlier, not after repeated incidents, and require meaningful engagement with services so families get support before removal becomes necessary.
What steps should be taken to bring New Mexico into compliance with the 2018 court ruling that found New Mexico is failing to provide a sufficient education to all students?
We must start with K鈥3 literacy鈥攊f students can鈥檛 read early, they fall behind permanently. We should invest in proven reading instruction, early intervention, and give teachers the support and flexibility to teach effectively. We need accountability to ensure resources are improving outcomes and preparing students for success.
New Mexico has seen a string of devastating wildfires and floods in recent years. What policy steps, if any, should the state take to address these natural disasters?
We need to be proactive, not reactive鈥攊nvesting in forest and watershed management, flood control, and emergency response. We must address the insurance crisis as families lose coverage or face rising costs. Climate change is real, and our policies must focus on resilience, mitigation, and protecting communities from increasingly frequent disasters.
Would you support or oppose a paid family and medical leave program that would require most employees and employers to pay into a state-run fund?
As a former small business owner, I understand how additional mandates impact employers. I do not support a one-size-fits-all, state-run program that requires mandatory contributions. While supporting families is important, we need flexible solutions that
Have you or your business, if you are a business owner, ever been the subject of any state or federal tax liens?
No
Have you ever been arrested for, charged with, or convicted of drunken driving, any misdemeanor or any felony in New Mexico or any other state? If so, explain.
When I was 21, I was cited for a misdemeanor for contributing to a minor after a 20-year-old friend took a drink from me at a concert. The matter was resolved through a deferred disposition and ultimately dismissed. I have had no other incidents since.
Have you ever been involved in a personal or business bankruptcy proceeding?
No