Two offices, four quadrants: Lt. Gov. candidates propose changes

Voters in Bernalillo County will choose between two distinct plans to handle citizen complaints when they cast ballots for lieutenant governor this November. The Democrat, Stephanie Garcia Richard, and the Republican, David Gallegos, both identify the ombudsman role as the most overlooked duty of the office. They disagree, however, on how to make the office more effective for residents.

Garcia Richard, a former educator, proposes a structural change to the office. She plans to expand the number of lieutenant governor offices from two to four. Her goal is to place an office in each quadrant of the state. She said she would spend time in each location to meet people where they are. She acknowledged that this plan would require more budget and staff. She wants to partner with legislators in rural areas, regardless of their party affiliation, to hold joint office hours.

Garcia Richard stated that improving the education system is her primary passion. She cited a successful program in Mississippi, often called the Mississippi Miracle, as a model she wants to explore. Her specific proposal involves placing a reading coach in every elementary school classroom to help students master reading.

David Gallegos, a former natural gas industry supervisor, favors a different approach. He wrote in a candidate guide response that he would manage the ombudsman office like a service business. He described the operation as responsive, accountable, and focused on results. Under his plan, every inquiry would receive a case number and a dedicated staff member. He said the office would track the time agencies take to respond and report those numbers publicly. This would allow New Mexicans to see which parts of government are efficient and which are not.

Gallegos said his first priority is bringing business and families back to the state. He noted that many neighbors have moved to Texas and other states for better jobs and lower costs. He believes reversing that trend is the foundation for other work. His other stated priorities include public safety and building working relationships across the aisle. He also wants to give rural and Southern New Mexico a permanent seat at the table.

The lieutenant governor runs on the same ticket as the governor. The office handles grievances with government agencies and organizations. Garcia Richard and Gallegos are the two candidates currently on the ballot for the position.

The next scheduled step for both campaigns is the general election. Voters in Bernalillo County will select their preferred candidate at the polls. The winner will take office following the certification of results.