Miles R. Tafoya
Incumbent
Magistrate Judge Division 1
Together, we can keep justice on the bench.
Miles Tafoya has proudly served as Magistrate Judge, Division 1 since 2021. A lifelong resident of Valencia County, he is raising his family here and remains deeply invested in the community he serves.
Miles brings 8 years of experience working alongside judges, helping solve community challenges and supporting efforts to rehabilitate individuals back into the community. He is a United States Army combat veteran, having served honorably during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
After his military service, Miles earned a Bachelor of Business Administration and has continued his commitment to public service and justice.
Miles is committed to Valencia County—and committed to its people.
John R. Chavez
Incumbent
Magistrate Judge Division 2
Judge Chavez has proudly served as a Magistrate Judge for 12 years, bringing experience, fairness, and steady leadership to the bench. He is also a United States Army veteran of 27 years, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to service and duty.
In addition to his judicial role, Judge Chavez serves as a member of the New Mexico Sentencing Commission and as Chair of the New Mexico Courts Budget Committee, helping guide policy and ensure responsible stewardship of court resources statewide.
Judge Chavez remains committed to upholding justice with integrity and dedication.
Andrew Owen
Magistrate Judge Division 3
Andrew began his law enforcement career during his ten plus active-duty years in the Marine Corps upholding the Uniform Code of Military Justice and the U.S. Constitution. Andrew served with honor and distinction throughout his Marine Corps career serving as squad leader, crash investigator, SWAT Operator and his greatest honor was to be hand selected to serve with the Marine One Helicopter Squadron. Where Andrew led a variety of security missions around the world in support of the President of the United States.
Andrew continued his law enforcement career with the Bosque Farms Police Department where he served for over twenty years spending the last five years as the Chief of Police. Andrew made the decision to retire from law enforcement and realized he can still serve his community and have an impact on the judicial system for the residents of Valencia County by running for Division III Magistrate Judge.
The magistrate judge’s power is limited but significant, primarily handling preliminary criminal matters (issuing warrants, setting bail, initial appearances) and minor civil/criminal cases, traffic violations, and landlord-tenant disputes. A Magistrate Judge acts as an arm of the court, managing routine legal processes which makes Andrew’s strong working knowledge of state statutes and the procedural rules of the court along with his law enforcement experience an exceptional candidate for Division III Magistrate Judge.
Andrew’s campaign is based on bringing “Justice with Integrity” to the bench for Division III Magistrate Judge.
Justice is the process or result of using laws to fairly judge cases, redress wrongs, and punish crimes
Integrity involves trustworthiness and incorruptibility to a degree that one is incapable of being false to a trust, responsibility, or pledge.
As your Division III Magistrate Judge, Andrew will evaluate the facts of the case and determine their relativity to the statute(s) being presented. It is important to weigh the facts based on any and all mitigating or extenuating circumstances. The ultimate goal of any case before any Judge is the unbiased decision to achieve what is most important for society.
If you’re ready for “Justice with Integrity” then please vote for Andrew Owen Division III Magistrate Judge.
Denise Vigil
Magistrate Judge, Division III
I have 25 yrs in Law Enforcement, I started my career at Los Lunas Police Department in 2001. During my time with Los Lunas Police Department I was a patrol officer, moved into the Detective Division and eventually became Detective Sergeant.
In 2015 I transferred to Valencia County Sheriff’s Office. I worked a short while in the court security division, eventually transferred into the position of a Deputy who assisted the Sheriff’s office in obtaining their Professional Standards accreditation.
In 2017 I decided to further my career and run for Sheriff. I won my seat in 2018 and am the current sitting Sheriff. After much thought and consideration I feel I have more to offer my community. I have been through many stages in the judicial processes during my career which gives me an advantage on the bench. I will serve with fairness and integrity for the people of Valencia County and follow all the rules implemented for a sitting Judge.
Eric Montano
Magistrate Judge Division 3
Equality Meets Opportunity
I’m a proud Socorro, New Mexico native and Socorro High School graduate, where I played football and learned the value of teamwork, discipline, and community pride. At 17, I enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served overseas during Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
After 20 years of honorable service in the Air Force Security Forces, retiring as a Technical Sergeant, I continued serving our community as a civilian law enforcement officer. Along the way, I was honored as DWI Officer of the Year and became a certified DWI instructor.
I’m running for Magistrate Judge, District III in Valencia County to bring fairness, accountability, and integrity to our local justice system—guided by the Constitution, my faith, and a lifelong commitment to public service.
Y. Danielle Gonzalez
Magistrate Judge Division 3
Danielle Gonzalez brings more than two decades of legal experience to the table. She began her career in the Clerk’s Office at the 13th Judicial District Court, building a strong foundation in the judicial system from the ground up.
After earning her Paralegal Certificate, Danielle worked in private practice supporting respected attorneys Pedro G. Rael and David C. Chavez.
Since 2012, Danielle has served as the Trial Court Administrative Assistant to the Honorable Judge James Lawrence Sanchez, where she continues to play an integral role in supporting the court and ensuring its daily operations run smoothly.
Danielle’s judicial philosophy is simple and heartfelt: behind every case file is a real person with a real story. She believes that everyone who enters the courtroom deserves equal treatment, as well as decency and respect—no matter who they are.
A devoted wife and mother, Danielle has been married to her husband, JJ, for 19 years. Together they have built a life centered on family, faith, and community. They are proud parents of four children and one grandson. Danielle says her greatest role has always been being a mom.
She has been an involved parent every step of the way—supporting her children through Little League, Football, Baseball, and Cheer, and serving on boosters for Football, Baseball, and Cheer.
Her family’s accomplishments reflect the values they share:
• Her oldest daughter, a graduate of Belen High School, is now an attorney of nearly three years.
• Her second oldest son, also a Belen High School graduate, is completing his electrician apprenticeship.
• Her third oldest son is a senior at Belen High School and has played Football and Baseball all four years.
• Her youngest daughter is a freshman at Belen High School and a varsity Cheerleader.
A lifelong Republican with deep roots in Valencia County, Danielle is committed to serving the community that has shaped her life and her family. She believes when families thrive, the entire community thrives.
Christopher Williams
County Commissioner District 1
Integrity. Transparency. Community
Leadership You Can Trust -
Honest, dependable, and always putting the community first.
I’m proud to be running for Valencia County Commissioner, District 1. My family chose Los Lunas in 2020 for its strong values, close-knit community, and promise for the future—and it’s truly become home.
With 23 years of service in the U.S. Air Force National Guard and a career as an Emergency Planner, I bring proven leadership, accountability, and a people-first approach. Guided by faith and a lifelong commitment to service, I’m ready to serve District 1 with integrity, transparency, and dedication to our community’s future.
Christopher S. Garcia
County Commissioner, District I
Christopher Steven Garcia is a lifelong Valencia County resident and a proud product of its vibrant communities. Born and raised in Jarales, New Mexico, he grew up grounded in the values of hard work, faith, and service—principles that continue to guide him today.
A 2004 graduate of Belen High School, Christopher attended UNM–Valencia Campus before transferring to the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. He earned his bachelor’s degree in education in 2008 and completed his master’s degree in 2011.
In 2009, Christopher married Alicia Ulibarri-Garcia. Following their marriage, he relocated to Los Lunas, where he and his family live today. Having lived in both northern and southern Valencia County, Christopher understands the diverse needs, strengths, and challenges of communities across the county. Christopher and Alicia are the proud parents of three children—Abram, Ezekiel, and Nila—and remain deeply committed to creating a strong, safe, and thriving future for all families in Valencia County.
Christopher began his teaching career in 2008 and has dedicated the past 18 years to education. For 15 of those years, he has served at Los Lunas High School, teaching English and taking on a variety of leadership roles—including Activity Director and Student Council sponsor. Through these positions, he has helped students build leadership skills, a sense of civic responsibility, and pride in their community. His experiences in the classroom have given him a firsthand understanding of what families, students, and working people face every day.
He is an active parishioner at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Tomé and a committed member of the Knights of Columbus. His service within the parish and the organization has strengthened his dedication to helping local families and contributing to the broader community.
A member of the Republican Party, Christopher supports conservative values and common-sense solutions that respect taxpayers, strengthen families, and preserve the character that makes Valencia County a great place to live and raise a family.
As a lifelong resident, educator, community volunteer, and parent, Christopher Garcia is committed to listening to residents, working collaboratively, and serving Valencia County with integrity, dedication, and heart.
Helen Saiz
County Commissioner, District I
With more than 23 years of experience in county government, I bring a deep understanding of how local government works and how it can best serve our community. Over the course of my career, I have worked in multiple departments, including the Assessor's Office, Mapping Department, Clerk's Office, and Public Works, gaining firsthand knowledge of the daily operations. This broad experience allows me to understand how decisions made at the commission level impact every department and, most importantly, the residents we serve.
As a former county commissioner from 2014 to 2018, I proudly served as a District I County Commissioner. During my term, my fellow commissioners and I spearheaded the Request for Proposal (RFP) process for the Valencia County Hospital project, helping lay the foundation for expanded healthcare access in the community. I also played an active role in advancing the Village of Los Lunas corridor improvement project, progress that residents can see taking shape today. I served as a board member for the Older Americans Program, where I helped support services that provide meals, transportation, and essential resources to senior citizens in our community. I retired from the New Mexico Department of Health and a small business owner, bringing both public- and private-sector perspectives to the table.
I am married to Ron Saiz, a veteran who honorably served 28 years in the New Mexico Air National Guard and retired as a Chief Master Sergeant. Our family is deeply rooted in the community; I am a lifelong resident of Los Lunas and a 1987 graduate of Los Lunas High School. We are members of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Peralta.
Known as a proven leader who gets things done, I am seeking to serve as Valencia County Commissioner for District I. I have a strong record of service and a clear passion for improving the lives of the people of Valencia County through transparency, collaboration, and putting residents first. I believe my decades of hands-on experience, knowledge, and strong commitment to this community make me well-qualified to serve the people of Valencia County.
Morris R. Sparkman
County Commissioner, District III
The grandson of a Vietnam vet, son of a volunteer firefighter and the brother of a police officer, Morris comes from a long line of public servants.
While a senior in high school, Morris received a nomination from Former U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman to the United States Military Academy at West Point. Although his nomination to West Point was a high honor, life had different plans for Morris. After graduating from Valencia High School in 2013, Morris attended the University of Denver where he received a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.
Upon graduating from the University of Denver in 2017, Morris returned home to the community that raised him, Valencia County. He began working in Bosque Farms for a local fabrication shop where he designed and built automated equipment for cleanroom environments as well as Department of Energy facilities. Currently, Morris works as an engineering manager for a DoD contractor specializing in C-UAS laser weapon systems providing national defense capabilities.
As County Commissioner for District III, Morris has delivered on commitments made including:
Completion of the Jarales Bridge Project
Construction of the County Hospital
Improved infrastructure in District III
But there’s more work to be done.
Morris is running for reelection to continue to deliver for our county. Whether it be seeing through the completion of our hospital or delivering on community parks and rec, Commissioner Sparkman is primed to leverage his current knowledge and role as Vice Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners to continue to improve the lives of Valencia County residents.
Sharon L. Smith
County Commissioner, District III
With a lifetime of leadership in business, administration, and community engagement, this candidate brings the experience and practical knowledge needed to serve as County Commissioner. Her career has been built on strong management principles, fiscal responsibility, and a commitment to efficient operations—values that translate directly into effective local government.
Throughout her professional career, she has worked extensively in administration and management, overseeing policy planning, organizational development, operational procedures, personnel selection, budgeting, and contract management. She has supervised teams, coordinated complex operations, and helped organizations grow through careful planning and sound decision-making.
As a business executive and entrepreneur, she has been involved in the development of new companies and investment opportunities, building strong teams and working closely with decision-makers to create successful ventures. Her experience also includes consulting with businesses on startup development, operational efficiency, employee management, and problem solving.
Her background in finance and banking includes budgeting, general accounting, record keeping, credit and collections, and maintaining strong banking relationships. She understands the importance of responsible fiscal management and transparent financial practices—skills that are essential when managing taxpayer dollars.
In addition, she has extensive experience in sales, marketing, and distribution, focusing on customer service, pricing strategies, logistics, and maintaining strong client relationships. Her work has included marketing planning, trade shows, advertising layout and budgeting, and retail and real estate sales.
She has also served in human resources and training, recruiting and hiring employees, developing training materials, conducting performance evaluations, and mentoring staff to help them succeed. Her commitment to teamwork and professional development has helped build strong, motivated organizations.
Her experience extends to development and construction projects, negotiating with governmental agencies and working with community leaders to move projects forward responsibly.
Beyond Her professional career, she has remained active in public affairs and community service, including public speaking, community relations, and involvement in service organizations. These experiences have given her a strong understanding of the needs and concerns of local residents.
With a deep belief in responsible government, fiscal accountability, and strong local leadership, she is committed to working hard to protect the interests of taxpayers and ensure a strong future for the county.
Burgandy Casias
County Assessor
Accountability. Competence. Transparency
Burgandy Casias, a native of New Mexico, brings more than 20 years of experience in housing and mortgages to her candidacy for Valencia County Assessor. Having worked closely with families statewide, she has guided them through the home buying process with transparency, fairness, and genuine care. Her deep expertise in property values, financial accountability, and the real impact of assessments on taxpayers uniquely positions her to lead the office effectively.
As a board member of the New Mexico Mortgage Lenders Association, Burgandy has advocated for ethical practices that support both families and local communities. Her commitment extends beyond her career through active involvement in community events, charities, and local causes, where she consistently shows up with purpose and pride.
As County Assessor, Burgandy’s mission is clear: to provide fair, accurate, and transparent property assessments while making the Assessor’s office more accessible and responsive to the people of Valencia County. Valencia County can count on Burgandy to be accountable, competent, and transparent. With heart, hustle, and unwavering
Celia Dittmaier
Incumbent
County Assessor
Waiting on information from candidate
David A. Hyder
County Assessor
2026 candidate for Valencia County Assessor. David Hyder severed the county as County Commissioner for two terms. His focus was on the people of Valencia and will serve as Assessor in the same manner. We must do better and David Hyder is ready.
Wendy Wallace
Incumbent
Probate Judge
Wendy Wallace is a proud New Mexican of over 50 years and has called Valencia County home for more than 25 years. A local businesswoman and community volunteer, she has been actively involved with organizations such as the BFRA, Bosque Farms Fair, Middle Rio Grande Economic Development Team, and the Valencia County Abundant Grace Free Store.
With 19 years as a Realtor and over 35 years in a family business, Wendy brings real-world experience helping families navigate wills, estates, and trusts. For the past four years, she has served as Valencia County Probate Judge and is seeking re-election.
Known for her calm, fair, and compassionate approach, Wendy is committed to treating every resident with dignity and respect while helping families through difficult times. She is dedicated to accessible service, clear communication, and ensuring probate matters are handled with professionalism and care.
Joseph Rowland
Valencia County Sheriff
Joseph Rowland is a lifelong public servant with more than 27 years of law enforcement experience dedicated to protecting communities and upholding the rule of law. He began his career in 1996 as a U.S. Army Military Police Officer, serving until 2001 and deploying to Bosnia in support of IFOR operations, where he earned Military Police Officer of the Year. After his military service, he conducted security contract work in the Middle East in support of U.S. forces.
In 2003, Joseph became a Federal Agent with the National Nuclear Security Administration, stationed at Kirtland Air Force Base for ten years. In this high-risk role, he was responsible for the safety and security of nuclear weapons shipments, operating in environments that demanded precision, accountability, and leadership.
Joseph joined the Valencia County Sheriff’s Office in 2013, where he has served with distinction. He participated and supervised high-risk counter-narcotics operations, served on the regional SWAT Team, and rose to become the agency’s senior-most Lieutenant. His leadership experience includes overseeing Field Services, Criminal Investigations Division, Evidence processing, SWAT operations as regional Commander, and programs targeting repeat and violent offenders.
Now running for Valencia County Sheriff, Joseph is committed to restoring proactive policing and reducing crime rates that are nearly twice the national average. He believes in focused enforcement against repeat and violent offenders, strong partnerships at all levels of government, and a “One team, One fight” leadership philosophy. His goal is to rebuild public trust, strengthen community safety, and ensure a higher quality of life for all Valencia County residents.
Preston Wade Smith
Valencia County Sheriff
Valencia County isn’t just where Preston lives- it’s home. For 18 years, he has served and protected the community he grew up in. As Sheriff, he will continue serving our community with dedication and commitment. Preston Smith- A Change This County Needs.
Kevin Vega
Valencia County Sheriff
Waiting on information from candidate
Tanya Mirabal Moya
Incumbent
State Representative - District 7
Priorities: Reducing Crime – We need to provide out first responders with the resources they need. Emphasizing Education – As a teacher and coach, Tanya knowns firsthand what teachers need to get the job done. Improving Infrastructure – She works hard to bring needed infrastructure projects to Belen, to improve quality of life and to attract more people to the community. Creating jobs – Uses her past and present experience to bring jobs to her district.
Tanya Mirabal Moya is a proud second-generation Valencia County resident who has dedicated her professional life to making District 7 a better place to live, work, and raise a family.
After graduating from Belen High School, Tanya built a diverse career that reflects her strong work ethic and commitment to the community. She has worked on an exploration drill rig, served families as insurance agents, and inspired students as a physical education teacher.
After earning her teaching license, Tanya — known to many students as “Coach T” — returned to BHS to teach biology, physics, and chemistry while also coaching many youth sports teams throughout our area. Her passion for education and mentorship has touched countless young lives in Valencia County.
Tanya and her husband, Jason, have been married for 17 years and are proud parents to four children: Jacee, Joshua, Tori, and Trenten. They are also the proud grandparents of their grandson, Quintin.
Tanya’s dedication to our community, our schools, and our families is what drives her commitment to serve District 7.
Brian Baca
Incumbent
State Representative - District 8
My work as your voice in the State Capitol has just begun — and I need your help to continue.
Stand with me and help keep a strong voice for our district in Santa Fe.
Gail Armstrong
Incumbent
State Representative - District 49
Issues: Responsible Water Usage – Water is one of our states most valuable resources and critical to the families in my district. Farming and Ranching – I will work for mutually beneficial solutions that respect and honor the rich history and continued importance of farming and ranching in our state. Economic Development – I will work to unite the House related legislation that promotes responsible economic development in our area. Education in New Mexico – I will support a common ground effort that is designed to improve the direction of education in New Mexico. Health and Public Safety – I will build a relationship across party lines to ensure the health and security of all New Mexicans.
Standing Committee Membership
“As your representative, I’m committed to focusing on areas of common ground that unite rather than divide us. I am working diligently to improve educational opportunities, strengthen economic development, and reduce crime in our communities.”
A Dedicated Leader for District 49
State Representative Gail “Missy” Armstrong comes from humble beginnings in the rural ranching community of Datil, New Mexico. The values she learned growing up—faith, family, hard work, and integrity—continue to guide her service today. Gail understands the challenges facing rural communities and remains deeply committed to protecting the western way of life.
Family is at the heart of everything Gail does. In 1984, she married Dale Armstrong, and together they raised four successful children and are now proud grandparents to thirteen wonderful grandchildren.
Gail is also a strong champion for small businesses in New Mexico. Since founding their first business in 1987, Gail and Dale have grown their entrepreneurial efforts across the state. Through their work, they have remained dedicated advocates for local businesses, workforce development, and expanding opportunities that help build a stronger New Mexico for future generations.
Since being elected in 2017, Gail has earned a reputation for working across the aisle and focusing on results. During her time in the New Mexico House of Representatives, she has focused on issues that matter most to rural communities—water, farming, ranching, economic development, education, health care, and public safety.
Her colleagues recently placed their trust in her leadership by selecting her as the first female House Minority Leader. Known for her fairness, grit, honesty, and grace, Gail is a relentless advocate for doing what is right and always puts the needs of her constituents first.
Since 2017, Gail has proudly represented District 49 and has served as Republican Caucus Chair since 2022. She remains committed to ensuring rural New Mexico always has a strong voice in Santa Fe.
Doug Turner
Governor
Doug Turner is a lifelong New Mexican who believes our state can be stronger, safer, and more prosperous when government is limited, accountable, and focused on serving people—not controlling them.
Raised in Old Town Albuquerque and educated at Albuquerque High, United World College USA, American University, and Université Libre de Bruxelles, Doug brings both deep local roots and a global perspective to the challenges facing New Mexico.
A successful entrepreneur, Doug has built and operated companies in manufacturing, construction, and land development. As founder of Agenda Global, an international strategic communications firm headquartered in New Mexico, he has worked in more
than 40 countries, advising public institutions, businesses, and security organizations. He understands firsthand the realities of payroll, regulation, and competition—and knows that real economic growth comes from the private sector, not government picking winners and losers.
Doug has also dedicated years to public service. He served eight years as Chairman of the New Mexico Judicial Standards Commission, 15 years as Chairman of Public Charter Schools of New Mexico, and currently serves as a Village of Taos Ski Valley Councilor.
A devoted father of three, Doug is running for Governor to restore accountability, strengthen families and communities, and build a freer, more prosperous future for every New Mexican.