Open borders are dangerous for our state. We need to ensure the safety of our citizens by making sure we keep the pressure on the Governor. Fentanyl and other drugs are pouring in our state as well as illegal aliens. Crime is on the rise and our citizens do not feel safe. We need to secure the New Mexico Southern border by hiring more border patrol agents and equipping them with the tools necessary to enforce border security. The State Senate must come together and declare our situation at the border an emergency crisis that needs to be addressed immediately. We need to crack down on the Cartels, stop human trafficking and put an end to the influx of dangerous narcotics entering our state. As your state Senator, I would like to sponsor a bill that would allocate state funds to finish the border wall and provide the necessary equipment for our border patrol. I would also like to introduce a joint resolution to officially declare our crisis at the border an emergency and call on the Governor to take immediate action by deploying the National Guard. It is essential to homeland security that we protect our borders from illicit movement of weapons, drugs, contraband, and unlawful entry, while promoting lawful entry & exit, and lawful trade.

New Mexico's overall violent crime rate is 781 per 100,000 people, more than double the national rate. New Mexico ranks first with a rate that's 22 points higher than the next highest, which is Alaska.

Los Alamos is the safest city in New Mexico, reporting just 71 total crimes among its population of nearly 20,000. 3 cities reported no murders: Los Alamos, Corrales, and Anthony. Grants is the only city to report no rapes.

At 30.1 percent, McKinley County had the highest rate of poverty in the state.

In 2021, New Mexico had the third-highest poverty rate in the country (18.4 percent), with about 382,798 persons living in poverty.

1. Crime/Drugs/Sex trafficking: Illegal immigration can be associated with criminal activities such as drug trafficking and human trafficking. However, it's important to note that the majority of immigrants, both legal and illegal, are law-abiding individuals seeking better opportunities.

2. Poverty contribution to crime: Poverty rates are most affected by labor force participation rates, wages, and educational attainment. In New Mexico, most individuals receiving income supports work, but likely not full-time and not for wages high enough to meet the rising cost of living.

Despite supplemental programs , poverty persists.

Summary

Income support programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance 

Program (SNAP) and Medicaid provide immediate benefits to those living in or 

near poverty. However, large investments in these programs have generally 

not coincided with decreasing poverty in the state.

In FY23, New Mexico spent over $10.1 billion of state and federal funds 

on income support programs – $2.6 billion more than in FY19. Over the 

same time, poverty levels have remained stubbornly high with poverty 

rates staying around 18 percent. In 2022, New Mexico had the highest 

poverty rate in the nation at 17.6 percent, and since at least 2000, New 

Mexico has persistently ranked as one of the poorest states in the 

country. Moreover, the significant increase in pandemic-related income 

support did little to change the state’s poverty rates and structure. 

Poverty rates are most affected by labor force participation rates, 

wages, and educational attainment. In New Mexico, most individuals 

receiving income supports work, but likely not full-time and not for 

wages high enough to meet the rising cost of living. Education and 

evidence-based training provided alongside income support programs 

could increase earnings for recipients, but there is no cohesive strategy 

at the state level to address this need. Current benefit structures also can 

disincentivize individuals from seeking higher-paying jobs or working full time. 

Additionally, as found in 2021, many families are likely not enrolled in all 

programs for which they are eligible. However, recent requests from state 

agencies indicate an interest in expanding these programs to people and families of higher income rather than increase program uptake among the existing low-income population. 

1) Homeless and homeless encampment/ panhandling

2) Drugs and alcohol abuse 

3) Mental health

4) illegal alien crossings, undocumented 

5) Open borders

6) sex trafficking, drug trafficking 

7) theft

8) Murder

9) Child abuse/molestation/neglect

10) arson

11) White collar crime 

What needs to be addressed immediately?

1) Stronger laws to help keep criminals behind bars.

2) 3 strikes you're out.

3) Bring back the death penalty.

4) Strengthen Penalties and implement restitution measures.

5) Focus on crime hotspots and collaborate efforts with our law enforcement agencies. Implement Taskforces

6) Mental health issues need to be addressed as well as more mental health services implement.  Make it a mandatory part of the reform process. 

7) Addictions need treatment programs and centers surrounding rehabilitation. 

8) Support our police and public servants, but also hold them accountable. 

9) Citizens need to be proactive and get involved in the processes and sho up to their city council and county meetings. Stay informed and know your legal, constitutional rights

Growing the economy in New Mexico Senate District 9 involves a multifaceted approach. Here are some strategies to consider. These strategies should be tailored to specific needs and resources of Senate District 9 to foster economic development and prosperity. It is also important to engage with local stake holders, including businesses, community leaders, and residents, to ensure that the strategies align with goals and priorities of each unique area of the district. We need permanent solutions, not temporary band-aids.

1. Economic Relief for families and Small Businesses: Provide resources and links to determine eligibility for programs currently in place. Also help businesses with grants to help keep their businesses open.

2. Collaborating with local organizations such as the Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce as well as the Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance and The Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce to pursue legislation that is business friendly and promotes business opportunities and entrepreneurship.

3. Partnering with nonprofit organizations to help them address social issues beyond the scope of government.

4. I want to advocate for bipartisan support, solutions and partnerships to promote economic growth.

5. Why invent the wheel when here in New Mexico we have a multitude of wonderful organizations already doing a great job contributing to businesses that benefit the American economy. As your next Senator, I will meet with these organizations and partner to help with their efforts.

The specific challenges facing our schools in District 9 include the following:

*We need Competitive Teacher salaries to make New Mexico competitive with neighboring states and address teacher shortages.

*School Meals: Legislation for free breakfast and Lunch for all students in the state.

*Reading Materials aligned with school educational standards as well as age-appropriate.

*Special Education training for special education teachers to provide structured literacy training for students with dyslexia.

*Coach Training to improve athletic coaches to better protect children from injuries.

*Work with Parent Teacher Associations and utilize programs to encourage parental involvement.

The challenges reflect a broader effort to improve educational outcomes and support students, Teachers, and parents.

*We need to address teacher shortages

Increase teachers’ salaries, so we can compete with other neighboring states. Incentives to keep our teachers in New Mexico may include lowering property taxes for those living in the district they teach in.

Teach increasing millions of citizens about the Constitution and American history through FREE online courses, with a special emphasis on reaching and teaching younger Americans.

Ultimately, Water equals Life! Our duty lies not only in safeguarding access but also in honoring customs connected with its management like cleaning acequias. My father Francisco David Mendonca has been the ditch rider or what we call in Spanish the mayordomo of the town of Vallecitos in Northern New Mexico for decades. My home of Corrales has continued the tradition. I will always protect and support legislation that protects our farmers, ranchers and property and water rights.

I Support organizations such as NMCGA (New Mexico Cattle Growers Association) and FFA (Future Farmers of America) organizations for our youth. My values and interests align with these organizations because the embody the preservation of both tradition and a way of life that I was brought up in. My father a Rancher and Cattleman and Ditch rider instilled the value of work and respect for the land, animals and its waters.

[1]: https://constitution.congress.gov/constitution/ ""

[2]: https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/constitution-transcript ""

[3]: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Constitution-of-the-United-States-of-America ""

[4]: https://billofrightsinstitute.org/primary-sources/constitution ""

[5]: https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Constitution_of_the_United_States_of_America ""

[6]: https://www.sos.nm.gov/about-new-mexico/publications/nm-constitution/ ""

[7]: http://www.citizensincharge.org/files/New%20Mexico%20Constitution.pdf ""

[8]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_New_Mexico ""

[9]: https://ballotpedia.org/New_Mexico_Constitution ""

[10]: https://law.justia.com/constitution/new-mexico/article-ii/section-6/ ""

[11]: https://codes.findlaw.com/nm/new-mexico-constitution/nm-const-art-ii-sect-6/ ""

[12]: https://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/citation/quotes/8251 ""

Supporting the Constitution entails a dedication to maintaining and protecting the principles and laws set forth in the U.S. Constitution and the New Mexico Constitution. This includes honoring the rights it safeguards and following the governmental structure it prescribes. For public officials, this dedication is typically formalized through an oath of office, in which they pledge to support and defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic.

The Constitution itself established America's national government and foundational laws, guaranteeing certain fundamental rights to its citizens.

It was signed on September 17, 1787, and has been amended 27 times to address various aspects of governance and civil rights.

The U.S. Constitution and the New Mexico State Constitution share core principles such as the separation of powers and the protection of individual rights.

The New Mexico Constitution focuses on the organization and powers of the state government within the boundaries established by the federal Constitution. It is more detailed than the U.S. Constitution, addressing specific policy issues and administrative procedures. For instance, the New Mexico Constitution's provision on the right to bear arms is considered robust due to its explicit language and subsequent reinforcement through amendments.

Article II, Section 6 of the New Mexico Constitution declares:

"No law shall abridge the right of the citizen to keep and bear arms for security and defense, for lawful hunting and recreational use, and for other lawful purposes, but nothing herein shall be construed to permit the carrying of concealed weapons. No municipality or county shall regulate, in any way, an incident of the right to keep and bear arms."

There is an emphasis on teaching millions of citizens about the Constitution and American history through free online courses, particularly focusing on engaging and educating the youth of America.

Recently, Audrey met Riley Gaines Baker, a former competitive swimmer from America. She was a part of the University of Kentucky's NCAA swim team and achieved significant milestones. Gaines, along with a group of college athletes, initiated a lawsuit against the NCAA, claiming that their Title IX rights were violated by the organization's policies on transgender athletes. Riley discussed competing alongside a transgender athlete who was assigned male at birth. The trophy was awarded to the transgender athlete. This incident has had repercussions beyond swimming, as Riley is actively involved in political activism concerning sports and gender equity. Her efforts have ignited conversations and increased awareness about the potential risks of allowing biological males to compete in women's sports and access female restrooms. As a mother, aunt, and great-aunt, I recognize the importance of raising awareness and implementing protective measures through legislation. It's crucial to safeguard our women and girls, ensuring they have equal opportunities in sports and life. As a future Senator, I am committed to preserving women's sports and spaces with laws that ensure privacy and safety. I stand for women's rights to fair sports opportunities, free from the disproportionate impact of biological males in competition. Women deserve to compete fairly within their biological gender category. I am dedicated to upholding truth and defending our women and girls.

Election integrity and the protection of the electoral process's integrity are paramount to Audrey. She advocates for a government that is honest and accountable. Empowering ordinary citizens to have their voices heard in a government of the people, by the people, and for the people is crucial. Audrey endorses initiatives to enhance the process, safeguard the accuracy of voter rolls, and stands against redistricting that disenfranchises voters from equitable representation. Protecting the will of the people and ensuring it remains uncompromised is essential.

As a Christian, I hold firm beliefs regarding abortion and euthanasia, believing life begins at conception and ends at natural death. These are my personal convictions. Nevertheless, I empathize with exceptional situations such as rape, molestation, or pregnancy complications endangering the mother's life. In such instances, I think decisions should involve a doctor, or the parents if it concerns a minor, and possibly a pastor, priest, or counselor to discuss available options. I advocate for prevention, education, and thorough consideration of the consequences before any decision is made. This sensitive topic requires careful handling. Discussions about protected sex between parents and children can prevent poor choices for those not practicing abstinence. Open communication at home is preferable to lessons from strangers. Furthermore, adoption is a beautiful option to abortion, offering childless couples the opportunity to provide a loving home. This complex issue, impacting many lives in various ways, warrants comprehensive deliberation.

Regarding bodily autonomy, individual rights to make decisions about one's body must be respected. Medically, I oppose government mandates for vaccinations, particularly those lacking extensive safety testing or with unknown long-term effects. The public deserves full disclosure of both benefits and potential adverse effects, ensuring informed consent without coercion.

Audrey would like to see these protections and benefits expanded for our seniors.

Policies affecting the economic and physical security of vulnerable and disadvantaged older adults - access to low income benefits (Medicare, Medicaid, LIHEAP, food stamps, etc.), pensions and retirement income; employment and transitions to work; consumer protections (predatory lending, telemarketing fraud); financial security, longterm care. These are the issues that need special attention at the Legislature.

In 2022, the New Mexico Legislature passed a bill and the Governor signed that eliminates taxes on Social Security benefits for individuals with less than $100,000 in annual income or couples with less than $150,000 in income, lowering taxes on retiree benefits. The New Mexico Legislature also passed a bill and the Governor signed a new bill creating a three-year income tax exemption for armed forces retirees, starting at $10,000 of military retirement income in 2022 and rising to $30,000 of retirement in the tax year 2024.

As your Senator for District 9, I am committed to advancing your interests and improving your benefits.

Mental health is a critical issue that warrants attention. Exploring recommendations for facilities, treatment options, and interventions is essential. The health of our society is reflective of the well-being of its citizens.

Clean air and water are crucial for the health of our communities. Audrey will ensure that any issues affecting the environment are addressed and that the standards for quality air and water are upheld.

Improving the conditions of Sandia Pueblo in New Mexico can be approached by addressing several key needs and challenges:

1. Economic Development:

Challenges: Economic opportunities may be limited, affecting the self-reliance of the community.

Solutions: Audrey will work on policies that support and expand the Pueblo’s successful business ventures, ensuring a self-reliant financial future.

2. Environmental Conservation:

Challenges: The health of the Pueblo’s Bosque (cottonwood forest and riparian zone) is threatened by climate change and invasive species.

Solutions: Initiatives like the Rio Grande Riverine Project aim to create habitat for native species and reduce the risk of fires by removing non-native trees. Audrey will advocate for more such projects and secure funding for environmental conservation efforts.

3. Cultural Preservation:

Challenges: Maintaining the Pueblo’s cultural heritage in the face of modernization.

Solutions: Audrey will support programs that preserve and promote the Pueblo’s traditional language, customs, and practices.

4. Health and Education:

Challenges: Access to quality healthcare and education services might be limited.

Solutions: Audrey will push for improved healthcare facilities within the Pueblo and partnerships with educational institutions to enhance local schooling options.

5. Infrastructure Development:

Challenges: Inadequate infrastructure can hinder community development.

Solutions: Audrey will work towards improving transportation, utilities, and communication systems within the Pueblo.

6. Political Representation:

Challenges: Ensuring that the voices of Sandia Pueblo are heard in state and federal matters.

Solutions: Audrey will act as a liaison between the Pueblo and other government entities, ensuring their needs and concerns are addressed in policy-making.

7. Climate Action:

Challenges: The Pueblo faces threats from climate change, impacting their traditional way of life.

Solutions: Audrey will support the Pueblo’s Priority Climate Action Plan, which aims to reduce pollutant emissions and invest in sustainable practices.

By focusing on these areas, Audrey will play a pivotal role in improving the living conditions and future prospects of Sandia Pueblo. It’s important that any action taken is in close consultation with the Pueblo to ensure that solutions are culturally appropriate and meet the community’s specific needs.