As we process the results of the presidential election, it’s natural to feel a mix of emotions —- disappointment, grief, and uncertainty about what lies ahead. Even in the face of adversity, we can and do find hope.
Here in New Mexico, we have held the line for progressive values, and our collective action, imagination, and commitment to creating a better future for all New Mexicans will continue to guide us forward.
The (Unfortunate) Historical Significance of Donald Trump and the Republicans Winning
Donald Trump’s win, combined with Republican control of the US Senate and potential control of the US House, marks a significant shift in the balance of power in Washington. This alignment will allow Trump to appoint even more conservative judges to federal courts, further stacking the deck against our communities. Coupled with his already-packed US Supreme Court, which is taking away basic freedoms and rights from Americans, this development poses a grave threat to our democracy and those we hold dear.
New Mexico Held Strong for Progressive Candidates
Despite these challenges and the uncertainty that accompanies them, we have reason to be proud of the progress we’ve made and shored up here in New Mexico.
We celebrate the victories here in New Mexico, including Cindy Nava’s historic win as the first DREAMER ever to serve in a state legislature.
We swept New Mexico’s U.S. Senate and House seats by reelecting Martin Heinrich, Melanie Stansbury, Gabe Vasquez, and Teresa Leger Fernandez. Gabe Vasquez, who won re-election in the highly-competitive Congressional District 2, has focused on practical changes that support hardworking families and will continue to be a Democratic voice in a potentially (we’re still waiting on final results) GOP-controlled House.
We also saw progressives in New Mexico prevail over MAGA candidates with wins in the state house secured for incumbents Meredith Dixon, Pamelya Herndon, Nathan Small, Kathleen Cates, and Eliseo Lee Alcon. Add to that group newcomer Elizabeth Torres-Velasquez and key seat pickups for well-known organizers and progressive champions Sarah Silva and Joseph Hernandez.
Environmental Impacts
Given our wins in the Roundhouse, New Mexico can continue to be a leader in energy production. We can and will continue to push for greater diversification even against the uphill battle we will face with Trump’s “drill baby drill” national policy. In the national landscape, we will face greater pushback on emissions regulations, investment in green technology, and yet we will continue to move New Mexico forward and prioritize our communities and protect our air, land, and water, no matter what.
Seven States Voted to Protect Abortion Rights
In abortion news, voters decided on constitutional amendments regarding reproductive freedom in ten states. In seven states, including New York, Maryland, Arizona, Nevada, Colorado, and Montana, they successfully protected these rights. Missouri, the first state to fully ban abortion after Roe was overturned, is now leading a historic shift by being the first to repeal such a ban.
A More Representative Congress
In Delaware, Sarah McBride became the first openly transgender person elected to Congress. In the US Senate, Lisa Blunt Rochester from Delaware and Angela Alsobrooks from Maryland won their seats, marking the first time in history two Black women will serve together as senators.
These victories represent hope for the future and demonstrate that progressive values can prevail even in challenging times.
Our Call to Action
New Mexico has a rich history of progressivism, from our early labor movements to our current efforts to protect our land, air, and water. Collective action and imagination have always led to positive change here, and we must continue to draw on this legacy as we move forward, even without yet knowing what that path forward is.
In the face of adversity, it’s tempting to blame or scapegoat certain communities. It’s imperative that we don’t fall into the cycle of blame. Instead, we’ll focus on solidarity — standing together with frontline communities who will be disproportionately impacted by Donald Trump’s agenda. We’ll finish counting the votes, cure ballots, protect the canvass, and finish the work. And we’ll fight like hell, finding joy in the work and in each other.
The road ahead won’t be easy, but we have reason to hope. By standing together, prioritizing New Mexican values, and working towards a better future for all New Mexicans, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges. For now, we take the space to grieve. When it’s time to stand back up, we will draw on our collective strength, imagination, and commitment to create a brighter tomorrow — one that is more just, equitable, and free for everyone.