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U.S. Senate: Ben Ray Luján (D)* 

Candidate Q&A

Ben Ray Luján

Name: Ben Ray Luján

Political Party: Democratic

Age: 53

Education: New Mexico Highlands University, Bachelor's in Business Administration

Occupation: U.S. Senator

City of residence:&Բ;é

Campaign website: 

1. Do you support or oppose the ϼ States’ involvement in the Iran war? How would you like to see the current conflict ended?

I’ve opposed President Trump’s war since day one. It’s weakened our alliances, emboldened our adversaries, and driven up costs here at home. There must be an immediate end to the war that stops the loss of American lives, brings stability to the region, and protects our safety at home.

2. Do you support or oppose imposing tariffs on other countries as a negotiating tactic and economic tool?

Tariffs, when applied strategically, can help ensure a level playing field. But the sweeping tariffs put in place by the Trump administration have raised the price of everything. They fuel inflation, create uncertainty for New Mexicans, and tax working families. On average, New Mexicans spent over $1,800 more in 2025.

3. Would you support or oppose efforts to change your own party’s current leadership team in the U.S. Senate? Please explain.

We need strong leadership in Congress. I was proud to be among the first to endorse Brian Schatz for Whip. The goalpost needs to be on winning back the majority, which I’ve done before. No matter who serves in leadership, my focus on delivering for New Mexico remains the same.

4. Do you believe the state is too reliant on federal funding and, if so, what steps do you believe New Mexico should take to diversify its economy?

Federal funding plays a foundational role in our economy. We are home to two National Laboratories, four military installations, major research universities, and a growing space industry. Rather than viewing federal investment as a weakness, we must find ways to leverage investments to grow businesses, strengthen manufacturing, and expand and diversify opportunities.

5. Why do you believe New Mexico’s population growth has lagged behind neighboring states in recent years? What policy changes would you propose to reverse that trend?

From our public lands to national laboratories to growing national defense and space enterprise, businesses, and young workers have economic opportunities. However, if we want to see this growth, we need a pipeline from our colleges and trade schools to employment, accessible health care, and infrastructure investments that support diverse industries.

6. Would you support or oppose regulations on artificial intelligence? Do you think any such guardrails or regulations should be set by the federal or state governments?

While AI can change lives, it can also spread bias, misinformation, and be exploited. We must also protect children from its harms and safeguard New Mexican jobs. I introduced legislation to test and evaluate AI systems, and I support standards that safeguard innovation without blocking states from enforcing their own protections.

7. Are there any instances in which you would support selling public lands? Please explain.

Our public lands are a shared resource. I believe they must remain accessible to New Mexicans. I strongly oppose broad efforts to sell off public lands, as well as efforts to restrict access or impose barriers. These decisions must be guided by what is in the public’s best interest.

8. Have you or your business, if you are a business owner, ever been the subject of any state or federal tax liens?

No.

9. 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.

10. Have you ever been involved in a personal or business bankruptcy proceeding?

No.