House District 41: Yolanda Jaramillo (D)
Candidate Q&A
Name: Yolanda Jaramillo
Political Party: Democrat
Age: 65
Education: One year of doctoral studies, Linguistics/Latin American Literature, University of New Mexico; M.A., Spanish Literature; B.A., Spanish/ Theatre, NM Highlands University,
Occupation: Retired
City of Residence: Dixon
Campaign Website:
What steps do you believe should be taken to improve New Mexico's economic competitiveness?
We must strengthen education鈥攆rom STEAM to apprenticeships鈥攕o our workforce meets employer needs. I support job training, small business growth, and attracting high-wage jobs. We must expand broadband, invest in infrastructure, and support regional economic development so rural and tribal communities can compete and keep talent here.
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?
Yes, I support a legislative salary tied to median income. It promotes diversity, reduces reliance on outside income, and strengthens transparency. Fair pay allows more working New Mexicans to serve. I also support term limits to reduce entrenched power, limit lobbyist influence, and encourage fresh perspectives from citizen legislators.
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.
New Mexico is resource-rich, yet still has one of the highest poverty rates. We need real tax relief for working families. I support reducing income taxes and making the gross receipts tax more fair and uniform.
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?
As an acequia leader, I understand how vital water is to our communities, traditions, and livelihoods. I support water use limits for data centers and strong standards for environmental impact and labor. We need a balanced approach that protects water while ensuring projects benefit communities.
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?
When youth commit crimes, there must be consequences. Research shows harsher sentences don鈥檛 reduce repeat offenses. We need accountability with rehabilitation, prevention, and family support. With so many children raised by grandparents, strengthening families and opportunities is key to improving public safety long term.
Would you support or oppose a ban on selling certain types of firearms, including semiautomatic firearms and machine guns?
As an educator and co-founder of a youth suicide prevention program, I鈥檝e seen how mental health and gun access intersect. I support commonsense gun safety, keeping guns from minors, and investing in behavioral health. We must put public safety and communities first, not the gun lobby.
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 National Guard assisting law enforcement in Espa帽ola in limited, targeted roles. They extend capacity and allow police officers to focus on crime, without replacing local control. Given the serious drug and crime challenges, this temporary support is appropriate, alongside long-term investments in prevention, treatment, and community resources.
What changes would you propose to improve New Mexico鈥檚 Children, Youth and Families Department?
CYFD needs accountability, stability, and better coordination across agencies. I support strengthening the Office of the Child Advocate, increasing transparency, and following evidence-based reforms from the Kevin S. settlement. Improving outcomes requires strong leadership, cross-agency collaboration, and a culture focused on protecting children and supporting families鈥攏ot politics.
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?
New Mexico must fully implement the Yazzie-Martinez ruling by funding what works and ending half measures. We need to bring educators, families, and communities together鈥攅specially in rural and tribal areas鈥攖o create real solutions, improve attendance and outcomes, and ensure resources directly support student success and long-term achievement.
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?
Climate change is driving more severe wildfires and flooding, and we must act to fund first responders, support resiliency plans, and expand fire-resistant practices. With $137 million in federal grants, $100 million in state aid, and $70 million in loans, we must ensure funds reach communities and support long-term resilience.
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 a paid family and medical leave program. It鈥檚 good for workers and helps small businesses compete with larger companies that already offer these benefits. But it must be thoughtfully designed鈥攚ith rural communities, agricultural employers, careg
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