Michelle Sandoval
From Ballotpedia
This page was current at the end of the individual's last campaign covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.
Michelle Sandoval (Democratic Party) ran for election to the New Mexico House of Representatives to represent District 57. She lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.
Sandoval completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Michelle Sandoval was born in Las Cruces, New Mexico. She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of New Mexico in 2018.[1]==Elections==
2024
See also: New Mexico House of Representatives elections, 2024
General election
General election for New Mexico House of Representatives District 57
Catherine Cullen defeated Michelle Sandoval in the general election for New Mexico House of Representatives District 57 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Catherine Cullen (R) | 50.4 | 8,373 |
 | Michelle Sandoval (D)  | 49.6 | 8,240 | |
| Total votes: 16,613 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for New Mexico House of Representatives District 57
Michelle Sandoval advanced from the Democratic primary for New Mexico House of Representatives District 57 on June 4, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Michelle Sandoval | 100.0 | 1,257 |
| Total votes: 1,257 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Republican primary election
Republican primary for New Mexico House of Representatives District 57
Catherine Cullen defeated John D'Antonio and Corrine Rios in the Republican primary for New Mexico House of Representatives District 57 on June 4, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Catherine Cullen | 37.4 | 525 |
 | John D'Antonio | 33.2 | 466 | |
 | Corrine Rios | 29.5 | 414 | |
| Total votes: 1,405 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Sandoval in this election.
2022
See also: New Mexico House of Representatives elections, 2022
General election
General election for New Mexico House of Representatives District 57
Incumbent Jason Harper defeated Michelle Sandoval in the general election for New Mexico House of Representatives District 57 on November 8, 2022.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Jason Harper (R) | 51.8 | 6,082 |
| Michelle Sandoval (D) | 48.2 | 5,654 | |
| Total votes: 11,736 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for New Mexico House of Representatives District 57
Michelle Sandoval advanced from the Democratic primary for New Mexico House of Representatives District 57 on June 7, 2022.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Michelle Sandoval | 100.0 | 1,054 |
| Total votes: 1,054 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Republican primary election
Republican primary for New Mexico House of Representatives District 57
Incumbent Jason Harper advanced from the Republican primary for New Mexico House of Representatives District 57 on June 7, 2022.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Jason Harper | 100.0 | 1,428 |
| Total votes: 1,428 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Michelle Sandoval completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Sandoval's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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As a candidate, I am a dedicated and community-focused individual with deep roots in Rio Rancho. Born in Las Cruces and raised here since the age of four, I understand the unique needs and aspirations of our community. My professional journey, which includes significant roles at Bank of the West, Sandoval County's Treasurer's Office, and Los Alamos Labs, has equipped me with a solid understanding of governance, finance, and community dynamics. I am also a first-generation college graduate, holding a bachelor's degree in accounting and a Minor in Psychology.
I am deeply committed to public service, as demonstrated by my extensive volunteer work with organizations like Junior Achievement, Special Olympics, Watermelon Ranch, and the Balloon Fiesta. My experiences have instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility and a passion for making a positive impact.
On a personal level, I am a family-oriented person, inspired daily by my husband, who is in his twelfth year of active duty with the National Guard, and our wonderful 20-month-old daughter. My campaign is driven by a desire to create a better future for all, focusing on sustainable development, healthcare access, public safety, and support for working families.- I am committed to transparent, inclusive government that actively engages with and listens to the community. My goal is to ensure every resident's voice is heard and their needs are addressed through thoughtful, effective policy-making.
- I am committed to ensuring that every resident has access to affordable, quality healthcare. By strengthening our Medicaid program, supporting rural healthcare facilities, and expanding mental health services, we can build a healthier community for all.
- I will implement comprehensive crime reduction strategies, focusing on increasing resources for law enforcement, supporting community policing initiatives, and expanding rehabilitation programs. Addressing the root causes of crime through better educational and job opportunities will also be a priority.
I am passionate about several key areas of public policy vital to our community's future. Ensuring access to affordable healthcare, expanding Medicaid, and improving mental health services are top priorities. I am committed to enhancing education by increasing funding for schools, supporting teachers, and creating programs for every child’s success. Environmental sustainability is crucial, advocating for renewable energy and sustainable practices. Public safety and criminal justice reform focus on crime reduction, community policing, and addressing crime’s root causes through education and job opportunities.
I look up to Abraham Lincoln for his unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and national unity. Lincoln's leadership during the Civil War and his efforts to abolish slavery through the Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment showcase his dedication to human rights and his ability to navigate incredibly complex and divisive issues.
How to Win Friends and Influence People- Dale Carnegie
As an elected official, it's crucial to have integrity, always being honest and transparent with the people you serve. Accountability is key, as you must take responsibility for your actions and decisions. Empathy is also vital; understanding and caring about the needs and concerns of your community helps you make better decisions. You need a real commitment to public service, driven by a desire to make a positive impact. Being open-minded and willing to listen to different viewpoints ensures fair and balanced decisions. Finally, having a clear vision for the future, working well with others, and being resilient in the face of challenges are all essential traits for effective leadership.
I believe my dedication to public service, demonstrated by extensive volunteer work, makes me a strong candidate for office. My experience at Bank of the West, Sandoval County's Treasurer's Office, and Los Alamos Labs has provided me with a solid understanding of governance and community dynamics. I value empathy, integrity, and accountability, always striving to listen and address constituents' needs with compassion. My collaborative spirit and innovative mindset, supported by my educational background in accounting and psychology, equip me to create effective and forward-thinking policies. These qualities, along with my ongoing commitment to learning, position me to serve effectively and make a positive impact.
Elected officials have core responsibilities that revolve around effectively representing their constituents by ensuring their voices and concerns are heard and addressed. They must propose and enact laws that benefit the community while overseeing the responsible allocation of public funds. It is crucial for them to monitor the implementation of laws and policies to ensure they serve their intended purposes. Engaging with the community through meetings and forums helps maintain a connection and responsiveness to public needs. Additionally, elected officials must work to solve local issues, advocate for the community’s interests at all levels, and uphold high ethical standards to preserve public trust.
I want to leave a legacy of positive and lasting change in my community. My aim is to be remembered as a leader who expanded access to quality healthcare, improved educational opportunities, and promoted sustainable development. I hope to be known for my commitment to transparency, integrity, and accountability in governance. By fostering collaboration and inclusivity, I want to build a stronger, more resilient, and equitable community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
9/11 was the first historical event that happened I was home with my mom and baby sister and watched everything unfold on the TV.
I grand opened the Church's Chicken in Bernalillo and I was there throughout high school.
One of my favorite books is "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee. I admire this book because it tackles complex themes of racial injustice, moral growth, and empathy through the eyes of a young girl, Scout Finch. The narrative is both powerful and accessible, making it a profound read for people of all ages. The character of Atticus Finch, with his unwavering integrity and sense of justice, serves as an inspirational model for standing up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Dime Como Quieres by Angela aguilar & Christian Nodal
One significant struggle in my life has been balancing my personal and professional responsibilities while pursuing my education, especially with the added challenge of my husband having a brain tumor. Managing work, family commitments, and my studies has often been overwhelming. As a first-generation college graduate, I felt a strong drive to excel academically and professionally to honor my family's sacrifices. Raising a young child and supporting my husband in the National Guard, while dealing with his health condition, has required immense dedication, time management, and perseverance. Despite these challenges, this experience has taught me resilience and the importance of setting priorities, shaping me into a more determined and compassionate leader.
The ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature should be built on collaboration, mutual respect, and a shared goal of serving the public. They should work together, communicating openly and compromising, when necessary, to create and implement policies that benefit everyone. Respecting each other’s roles is crucial: the governor enforces laws and manages the state, while the legislature creates laws and controls the budget.
New Mexico faces several major challenges over the next decade. Economically, the state must diversify beyond oil and gas by investing in renewable energy, technology, and tourism. Education needs improvement, with better funding and support for teachers to enhance student outcomes. Expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas, is crucial. Water scarcity, driven by climate change, requires sustainable management practices. Public safety is also a concern, necessitating comprehensive crime reduction strategies. Finally, aging infrastructure needs significant upgrades to support growth and improve quality of life. Addressing these issues will be key to ensuring a prosperous future for New Mexico.
Yes and no. Yes, having previous government or political experience can be beneficial for state legislators as it helps them understand the legislative process, build important relationships, and effectively advocate for their constituents. Experienced legislators can navigate complex systems and manage crises better. No, because fresh perspectives from those without prior experience can bring new ideas and approaches, which are also valuable. Balancing experience with new viewpoints can lead to well-rounded and effective governance.
Yes, it is highly beneficial to build relationships with other legislators. Strong relationships facilitate collaboration and communication, which are essential for passing legislation and addressing complex issues effectively. When legislators work well together, they can build coalitions, negotiate compromises, and pool resources to advance shared goals.
I admire and want to model myself after Daymon Ely, a dedicated and effective legislator. Daymon Ely is known for his commitment to transparency, accountability, and advocating for ethical governance. His work in the New Mexico House of Representatives highlights his ability to tackle complex issues such as healthcare, education, and criminal justice reform. Ely's collaborative approach and willingness to reach across the aisle to build consensus are qualities I greatly respect and aim to emulate.
Not as of right now.
Yes, there is a particularly touching and impactful story I heard from two sisters living in Mariposa. They have been dealing with relentless issues with their Homeowners Association (HOA). Despite new HOA boards, the fees and prices keep rising, which has put a severe strain on their finances. One of the sisters is bedridden with cancer, and both are living on a fixed income. They bought their home with the intention of retiring there, but now, due to the increasing costs, they are close to having to move. This story highlights the struggles many residents face with housing affordability and the impact of rising costs on those with fixed incomes and serious health conditions. It underscores the importance of advocating for fair housing policies and supporting vulnerable community members.
Yes, the legislature should oversee and grant the use of emergency powers. This ensures a balance of power and accountability, preventing executive overreach. Legislative oversight enhances transparency and public trust by ensuring that emergency measures are justified and proportionate.
If elected, the first bill I would introduce would focus on expanding access to affordable healthcare in New Mexico. This bill would aim to strengthen the Medicaid program, increase funding for rural healthcare facilities, and expand mental health services. Ensuring that every resident has access to essential healthcare services is a critical step in improving public health and well-being across the state. By addressing these healthcare challenges, we can reduce disparities, support our rural communities, and ensure that all New Mexicans receive the care they need, regardless of their income or location.
Planned Parenthood Votes New Mexico
NMVC Action Fund
American Federation of Teachers
NEA-New Mexico \n NEA-New Mexico (neanm.org)
New Mexico State Machinists
The Committees I'm interested in are:
Health and human services
Education
Energy, Environment and Natural resources
Judiciary &
I firmly believe that financial transparency and government accountability are crucial for effective governance. People have a right to know how their tax dollars are being spent, so I support clear, accessible reporting of government budgets and spending. This includes regular audits and public records to ensure everything is above board.
Accountability is about making sure that elected officials and government employees are answerable to the public. This means having strong oversight, independent watchdogs, and clear processes for dealing with any misconduct. It's important to set high ethical standards and enforce them.
I support changes to the state ballot initiative process to make it more transparent and accessible. First, I would require clear disclosure of who is funding and sponsoring initiatives, so voters know who's behind them. Second, I would simplify the process for citizens to propose initiatives, making it easier and more user-friendly. Lastly, I would ensure that the language on the ballot is clear and straightforward, so everyone can understand what they’re voting on. These changes would make the process fairer and more inclusive for all New Mexicans.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
2022
Michelle Sandoval did not complete Ballotpedia's 2022 Candidate Connection survey.
Campaign finance summary
Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.
See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate New Mexico House of Representatives District 57 |
Personal |
Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on August 3, 2024
Current members of the New Mexico House of Representatives
Leadership
Speaker of the House:Javier Martínez
Majority Leader:Reena Szczepanski
Minority Leader:Gail Armstrong
Representatives
District 1
Rodney Montoya (R)
District 2
Mark Duncan (R)
District 3
Bill Hall (R)
District 4
Joseph Hernandez (D)
District 5
Doreen Johnson (D)
District 6
Martha Garcia (D)
District 7
District 8
Brian Baca (R)
District 9
District 10
G. Romero (D)
District 11
Javier Martínez (D)
District 12
Art De La Cruz (D)
District 13
District 14
Miguel Garcia (D)
District 15
District 16
District 17
Cynthia Borrego (D)
District 18
Marianna Anaya (D)
District 19
Janelle Anyanonu (D)
District 20
Meredith Dixon (D)
District 21
Debra Sariñana (D)
District 22
Stefani Lord (R)
District 23
Alan Martinez (R)
District 24
District 25
Cristina Parajón (D)
District 26
Eleanor Chavez (D)
District 27
Marian Matthews (D)
District 28
Pamelya Herndon (D)
District 29
Joy Garratt (D)
District 30
District 31
Nicole Chavez (R)
District 32
Jenifer Jones (R)
District 33
District 34
Raymundo Lara (D)
District 35
Angelica Rubio (D)
District 36
Nathan Small (D)
District 37
Joanne Ferrary (D)
District 38
Rebecca Dow (R)
District 39
Luis Terrazas (R)
District 40
Joseph Sanchez (D)
District 41
Susan Herrera (D)
District 42
Kristina Ortez (D)
District 43
District 44
Kathleen Cates (D)
District 45
Linda Serrato (D)
District 46
Andrea Romero (D)
District 47
District 48
Tara Lujan (D)
District 49
Gail Armstrong (R)
District 50
Matthew McQueen (D)
District 51
John Block (R)
District 52
Doreen Gallegos (D)
District 53
Sarah Silva (D)
District 54
Jonathan Henry (R)
District 55
Cathrynn Brown (R)
District 56
Harlan Vincent (R)
District 57
Catherine Cullen (R)
District 58
Angelita Mejia (R)
District 59
Mark Murphy (R)
District 60
Joshua Hernandez (R)
District 61
District 62
District 63
District 64
Andrea Reeb (R)
District 65
Derrick Lente (D)
District 66
Jimmy Mason (R)
District 67
Jack Chatfield (R)
District 68
Charlotte Little (D)
District 69
Michelle Abeyta (D)
District 70
Anita Gonzales (D)
Democratic Party (44)
Republican Party (26)
