Want To Be a Legislator? Counties Seeking Applicants for Vacancy

Three New Mexico counties have begun the process of identifying potential successors to Rep. Jeannette Wallace, who died April 8 at the age of 77.

Gov. Susana Martinez will make the final choice as to Wallace’s successor, after county commissioners from Los Alamos, Santa Fe and Sandoval Counties submit to her a list of recommended names for the House District 43 vacancy. There’s no deadine for the governor to make a decision.

Though Wallace, who lived in Los Alamos, was a Republican, her successor can come from any political party. However, it’s likely that Martinez will choose a Republican in order to maintain the current balance– 36 Democrats, 33 Republicans and one independent — in the House of Representatives.

Los Alamos County Councilors are expected to call for formal letters of interest from potential candidates at their meeting next week, County Public Information Officer Julie Habiger said. A formal recommendation is expected to be made May 24.

In Santa Fe County, which only has two precincts in House District 43, aspiring legislators have been asked to submit resumes and letters of interest to County Manager Katherine Miller by May 2. The requirements? You must be at least 21 years old, reside within the district, and can’t hold a job with the county, state or federal government (More on that by clicking HERE).  The Santa Fe County Commission will then vote on nominations May 10.

At the time of her death, Wallace had served in the New Mexico Legislature for 20 years.