House District 70: Anita Gonzales (D)*
Candidate Q&A
Name: Anita Gonzales
Political Party: Democrat
Age: 46
Education: MBA
Occupation: Deputy Director, STEM Non Profit
City of Residence: Las Vegas
Campaign Website: www.anita4newmexico.com
What steps do you believe should be taken to improve New Mexico's economic competitiveness?
To strengthen New Mexico鈥檚 competitiveness, we must continue to diversify our revenue streams by investing in renewable energy, small businesses, agriculture, and technology. We should expand workforce training, support local entrepreneurs, invest in infrastructure, and ensure responsible development that protects our natural resources while creating sustainable, good-paying jobs.
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 a constitutional amendment to provide a legislative salary tied to median family income. Compensation would make public service more accessible to working families, not just those who can afford to serve, strengthening representation and ensuring a legislature that better reflects the people of New Mexico. Representation Matters!
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 changes to the gross receipts and personal income tax systems that promote fairness and stability. We should reduce burdens on working families and small businesses, modernize the GRT, and use current oil revenues to diversify our economy and build long term fiscal resilience.
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?
I support reasonable water use limits for data centers to protect our scarce water resources. I do not support an outright ban. Instead, we must strengthen planning, transparency, and environmental standards to ensure projects create jobs while safeguarding communities and long term water sustainability.
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 do not support broadly imposing stricter sentences, but more targeted intervention. We should hold youth accountable while prioritizing rehabilitation, mental health services, and prevention. We must strengthen judicial discretion and expand detention and service capacity to ensure appropriate responses that protect public safety and support youth development.
Would you support or oppose a ban on selling certain types of firearms, including semiautomatic firearms and machine guns?
I support gun laws that protect public safety, including universal background checks and red flag laws, while respecting the constitutional right to own firearms. We should focus on responsible ownership, violence prevention, and keeping guns out of the hands of those who pose a risk to themselves or others.
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 limited, clearly defined use of the National Guard to assist local law enforcement during emergencies or resource shortages, but not as a substitute for adequately funded, trained, and staffed local police. Public safety requires strong local capacity and appropriate coordination when additional support is needed.
What changes would you propose to improve New Mexico鈥檚 Children, Youth and Families Department?
I would strengthen CYFD by improving staffing, training, and case management systems to reduce caseloads and delays. I support greater transparency, accountability, and early intervention services. Above all, every decision must absolutely prioritize the safety, stability, and best interests of the child, ensuring timely protection and long term well being.
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?
NM should fully fund court ordered requirements, ensuring equitable support for all communities, including rural and Tribal areas. Strengthening teacher recruitment, support, and expanding evidence based interventions are key. Integrating career and technical education pathways helps make learning relevant and ensures students graduate prepared for college, careers, and lifelong 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?
NM should invest in wildfire and flood mitigation, especially in rural and high risk areas, including forest management and infrastructure resilience. We must strengthen insurance access and affordability, expand community based disaster recovery, and ensure long term support for rebuilding. Increasing resources for firefighters and public safety is essential.
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 would support a state run paid family and medical leave program, as it may be the only viable way for many small businesses to offer these benefits. It levels the playing field, improves employee retention, and supports training and stability.
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