Teresa Leger Fernandez

After incumbent Representative Ben Ray Luján announced that he would not seek re-election in 2020 and run for Tom Udall's seat in the United States Senate, Leger Fernandez announced her candidacy to succeed him. In the Democratic primary, Leger Fernandez faced six opponents, including New Mexico State Representative Joseph L. Sanchez and Valerie Plame, an author and former CIA officer.[13] During the primary, Leger Fernandez was criticized for attack ads against Plame, including one that featured swastikas superimposed over Plame's eyes, a reference to Plame's past comments that were perceived as anti-Semitic.[14] Leger Fernandez later denied any involvement with the ads.[15] Leger Fernandez was also criticized for so-called "dark money" groups that do not disclose their donors.[16] In response, Leger Fernandez noted that her campaign had no connection to the ads or the groups that sponsored them and denounced "dark money" groups and pledged support for campaign finance reform.[17] During the campaign, Leger Fernandez was endorsed by Congresswoman Deb Haaland, EMILY's List, and The Santa Fe New Mexican.[18][19]

A political progressive, Leger was also endorsed by the Working Families Party, Elizabeth Warren, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.[20] Leger Fernandez placed first in a field of seven candidates with over 42% of the vote.[21]

In the November general election, Leger Fernandez defeated Republican nominee Alexis Johnson. She assumed office on January 3, 2021.[22][23]

• Committee on Education and Labor[24]

• Congressional Progressive Caucus[25]

Leger Fernandez has advocated for a "New Mexico Green New Deal," Medicare For All, a transition away from fracking to green energy, and a ban on the sale of military style semi-automatic rifles.[26] She has also supported comprehensive immigration reform and the passing of the DREAM Act.[27]