Former Las Cruces Mayor Ruben Smith has joined a growing number of elected officials and former elected officials in Las Cruces and Dona Ana County endorsing Martin Heinrich in his campaign for U.S. Senate.
“I endorse Martin Heinrich for Senate because he is the best candidate to fight for southern New Mexico,” said former Mayor Smith. “Martin understands the need for economic development, quality schools and reliable infrastructure. He has the values, experience and work ethic necessary to fight for us in the U.S. Senate.”
“I am honored to receive the support of Mayor Smith,” said Heinrich. “Ruben has always been a committed advocate for the arts, youth and economic development in southern New Mexico. I am humbled to have his support as well as the backing of so many other local leaders in Las Cruces and Dona Ana County.”
Ruben Smith was elected Mayor of Las Cruces in 1991 and was re-elected to two additional four-year terms. As Mayor, Mr. Smith founded the Mesilla Valley Economic Development Alliance, secured funds to renovate the Court Youth Center and worked to preserve the Branigan Cultural Center.
Before serving as Mayor, Mr. Smith served five terms in the New Mexico House of Representatives and was President of the Dona Ana Arts Council. In 2003, Governor Bill Richardson appointed Mr. Smith to serve as the first Secretary of the New Mexico Office of Cultural Affairs.
Mr. Smith joins a number of local leaders in Dona Ana County endorsing Martin Heinrich for Senate, including current Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima; former State Representative J. Paul Taylor; Las Cruces City Councilors Sharon Thomas, Olga Pedroza, Nathan Small, and Gil Sorg; Dona Ana County Commissioner Billy Garrett; State Representative Joni Gutierrez; and State Senator Steve Fischmann.