House District 6: Priscilla Benally (D)
Candidate Q&A
Name: Priscilla Benally
Political Party: Democratic
Age: 53
Education: GMCS Public education and UNM
Occupation: Thoreau Community Center Executive Director
City of Residence: Thoreau
Campaign Website: None
What steps do you believe should be taken to improve New Mexico's economic competitiveness?
I believe the state should focus on a long-term strategy that creates jobs, strengthens communities, and keeps talent here. New Mexico has tremendous strengths鈥攏atural resources, cultural diversity, strategic location, research institutions, and a young workforce鈥攂ut it must turn those advantages into broader prosperity.
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 do support the proposed constitutional amendment calling for a new legislative salary tied to the median family income level.
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.
Before I could responsibly answer that question, I would need to understand how those proposals would directly affect the communities I represent.
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?
Before I could responsibly answer that question, I would need to understand how those proposals would directly affect the communities I represent. My first responsibility is to the people, families, and local economies in my district. I would want to review the potential impacts on water resources, jobs, infrastructure, and long-term community sustainability before taking a position.
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?
Support
Would you support or oppose a ban on selling certain types of firearms, including semiautomatic firearms and machine guns?
I support the 2nd Amendment and also understand the concerns raised by those who advocate for restrictions on the sale of certain machine guns.
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 using NM National Guard to assist local law enforcement when truly necessary and within the limits of the law, especially during emergencies, disasters, or serious threats to public safety. However, it should be used carefully, with clear oversight, accountability, and only when local agencies need additional support and resources.
What changes would you propose to improve New Mexico鈥檚 Children, Youth and Families Department?
I support replacing CYFD鈥檚 cabinet-level leadership with an independent commission to reduce political turnover, create stability, strengthen accountability, and end the revolving door of leadership. Our children and families deserve consistent, effective oversight focused on protection, trust, and long-term success.
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?
Provide Adequate and Equitable Funding. Strengthen Local Control and Accountability. Reestablish a State Board of Education. Support Teachers and Staff. Honor the Voices of the Plaintiffs and Stakeholders. Set Measurable Outcomes and Transparency. Ultimately, compliance means more than meeting a court order鈥攊t means finally delivering every child in New Mexico the quality education they deserve.
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?
Invest in forest management and wildfire mitigation. Strengthen flood control and infrastructure in vulnerable areas. Improve emergency preparedness and response. Stronger disaster recovery assistance. Prioritize water and watershed protection. Policy decisions must include the voices of local communities, tribal nations, rural residents, and those directly affected by these 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?
I support policies that help working families care for a new child, recover from illness, or support a loved one during difficult times. However, before supporting any specific paid family and medical leave program, I would need to carefully review how it would impact workers, small businesses, employers, and rural communities I represent.
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