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MEDIA RELEASE
Corrales, NM – Heather Balas, a long-time public policy expert and civic leader known for advancing positive solutions to New Mexico’s most pressing issues, filed her first required financial report with the NM Secretary of State on April 8, having raised nearly double her opponent in the Democratic Primary. Balas reported monetary contributions at $61,732, while her opponent reported monetary contributions at $32,471. “The support of residents in Sandoval and Bernalillo County has been tremendous,” said Balas. “Our message is resonating and voters are excited for someone who truly understands this district including what makes it so diverse and unique.” Balas raised nearly $62,000 in only two short months from residents throughout the district, as well as colleagues and supporters from throughout the state and country. Balas announced her candidacy for the New Mexico State Senate District 9 in early February following the announcement that current-sitting state Senator Brenda McKenna would not seek re-election to the district encompassing Albuquerque’s westside, Corrales, Placitas, Bernalillo, Algodones, Sandia Pueblo, and eastern Rio Rancho. Balas will run as a Democrat in the June 4, 2024 Primary Election. “I’m honored that our donors included people with so many different interests and backgrounds,” said Balas. “It shows that my career as a uniter is so badly needed in Santa Fe right now. We can work to advance our progressive values while also advancing and growing New Mexico’s small businesses.” Balas has lived in Senate District 9 for 20 years. She is best known for serving over a decade as President and Executive Director of New Mexico First. Balas currently serves as Vice President of the Election Reformers Network, focusing on state and federal reforms to strengthen American democracy. She previously served as a policy officer for the Thornburg Foundation, where she oversaw grants supporting transparency and ethics in government in New Mexico. “I have dedicated almost all of my career to making government work better for New Mexicans,” said Balas. “Extremists are working hard across the country to set us back. But we can’t go back. State Legislatures are our last line of defense – from protecting women’s healthcare to protecting a fair and trusted democracy. I don’t need on-the-job training and this isn’t a stepping stone for me. I am ready to serve the constituents of Senate District 9.” Balas is a fifth-generation New Mexican, born and raised in the agricultural community of Portales. She has been married to Joe Wellborn for 28 years. They live in Corrales and have two grown children, Devon and Grant (plus a rescue dog, Beau). Balas’ full bio is available at www.HeatherForNewMexico.org. CONTACT: Brian Morris (505) 414-9332 [email protected] Comments are closed.
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