House District 34: Juan Fuentes (D)
Candidate Q&A
Name: Juan Fuentes
Political Party: Democrat
Age: 52
Education: 近距离内射合集 graduate with a B.A. in Criminal Justice and a minor in Government.
Occupation: Self-employed - LGO Consulting
City of Residence: Santa Teresa, NM
Campaign Website: In progress
What steps do you believe should be taken to improve New Mexico's economic competitiveness?
Improving New Mexico鈥檚 economic competitiveness requires a balanced, business-friendly approach that supports growth while protecting our resources. We need an environment where businesses鈥攅specially local businesses鈥攃an succeed by reducing barriers, streamlining processes, and support. Strengthen partnerships with local and regional economic development organizations to recruit and retain job-creating industries.
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?
I support legislative pay because it expands opportunity for more people to serve and strengthens accountability. It also creates momentum for other reforms like term limits. With increased public investment, voters will have a stronger voice in holding legislators accountable to deliver results on key issues facing our state.
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.
Affordability is the top issue facing New Mexicans. I support reduction in the personal income tax to provide long-term financial relief for working families. Any changes should be balanced with maintaining stable revenue to fund essential services and ensure continued investment in infrastructure, education, and public safety.
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?
We must balance economic competitiveness with protecting our limited water resources. I support reasonable, science-based water use limits for data centers but would not support a blanket ban. Any decision should reflect local input, and I will represent the priorities of District 34 in ensuring responsible and sustainable development.
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?
New Mexico faces a serious public safety challenge, and we must ensure justice for victims of violent crime. I support stricter consequences for serious offenses, while also investing in prevention and rehabilitation programs that reduce recidivism and give young people a path toward a safer, more productive future.
Would you support or oppose a ban on selling certain types of firearms, including semiautomatic firearms and machine guns?
I support the Second Amendment and responsible gun ownership. I am open to common-sense measures that enhance public safety while respecting constitutional rights. Any proposals should be carefully reviewed to ensure they are effective, balanced, and focused on reducing violence without infringing on law-abiding citizens.
Do you support or oppose using New Mexico鈥檚 National Guard to assist local law enforcement with issues related to public safety?
I support the limited use of the New Mexico National Guard, when authorized by the Legislature and directed by the Governor, to assist local law enforcement in communities with staffing shortages or during public safety emergencies. Any use should be targeted, temporary, and focused on supporting鈥攏ot replacing鈥攍ocal law enforcement.
What changes would you propose to improve New Mexico鈥檚 Children, Youth and Families Department?
I would support establishing an independent oversight board for CYFD to provide stronger accountability and stability. This board could appoint interim leadership to assess operations, address urgent issues, and recommend long-term reforms focused on improving child safety, transparency, and outcomes for families across New Mexico.
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?
Despite increased funding since 2018, outcomes have not improved enough. I support establishing an independent oversight body to work with educators, administrators, and stakeholders to identify barriers to student success, ensure accountability, and implement targeted reforms that improve outcomes and bring New Mexico into compliance.
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 must take a proactive, locally informed approach to natural disasters. I support policies guided by experts and local officials who understand regional risks. The state should invest in prevention, infrastructure resilience, and emergency response while partnering with communities to implement solutions that reduce the impact of wildfires and flooding.
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?
I support paid family and medical leave, but I have concerns about creating a new state-run fund given past challenges in program management by the state. I would prefer a carefully designed approach that ensures support for families.
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.
No.
Have you ever been involved in a personal or business bankruptcy proceeding?
No.