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Steve Jones (New Mexico congressional candidate)

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Steve Jones
Image of Steve Jones

Candidate, U.S. House New Mexico District 1

Elections and appointments
Next election

November 3, 2026

Education

Bachelor's

University of Houston, 1970

Graduate

University of Houston, Clear Lake City, 1976

Military

Service / branch

U.S. Army

Years of service

1970 - 1976

Personal
Birthplace
Cisco, Texas
Religion
Evangelical Lutheran
Contact

Steve Jones (Republican Party) is running for election to the U.S. House to represent New Mexico's 1st Congressional District. He declared candidacy for the 2026 election.[source]

In 2020, Jones participated in a Candidate Conversation hosted by Ballotpedia and EnCiv. Click here to view the recording.

Biography

Steve Jones was born in Cisco, Texas. He served in the U.S. Army from 1970 to 1976. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston in 1970 and a graduate degree from the University of Houston at Clear Lake in 1976. Jones’s career experience includes working as a management consultant and executive in the energy industry, as a partner in a CPA firm, and as a college accounting instructor. He earned the U.S. Army’s Soldier’s Medal.[1]

Elections

2026

See also: New Mexico's 1st Congressional District election, 2026

Note: At this time, Ballotpedia is combining all declared candidates for this election into one list under a general election heading. As primary election dates are published, this information will be updated to separate general election candidates from primary candidates as appropriate.

General election

The general election will occur on November 3, 2026.

General election for U.S. House New Mexico District 1

Incumbent Melanie Ann Stansbury, Steve Jones, and Ndidiamaka Okpareke are running in the general election for U.S. House New Mexico District 1 on November 3, 2026.


Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Endorsements

Ballotpedia is gathering information about candidate endorsements. To send us an endorsement, click here.

2024

See also: New Mexico's 1st Congressional District election, 2024

New Mexico's 1st Congressional District election, 2024 (June 4 Republican primary)

New Mexico's 1st Congressional District election, 2024 (June 4 Democratic primary)

General election

General election for U.S. House New Mexico District 1

Incumbent Melanie Ann Stansbury defeated Steve Jones in the general election for U.S. House New Mexico District 1 on November 5, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Melanie Ann Stansbury
Melanie Ann Stansbury (D)
 
56.4
 
193,203
Image of Steve Jones
Steve Jones (R)
 
43.6
 
149,546

Total votes: 342,749
Candidate Connection = 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 U.S. House New Mexico District 1

Incumbent Melanie Ann Stansbury advanced from the Democratic primary for U.S. House New Mexico District 1 on June 4, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Melanie Ann Stansbury
Melanie Ann Stansbury
 
100.0
 
47,157

Total votes: 47,157
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House New Mexico District 1

Steve Jones defeated Louie Sanchez in the Republican primary for U.S. House New Mexico District 1 on June 4, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Steve Jones
Steve Jones
 
51.4
 
16,889
Image of Louie Sanchez
Louie Sanchez
 
48.6
 
15,980

Total votes: 32,869
Candidate Connection = 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 Jones in this election.

2020

See also: New Mexico's 2nd Congressional District election, 2020

New Mexico's 2nd Congressional District election, 2020 (June 2 Democratic primary)

New Mexico's 2nd Congressional District election, 2020 (June 2 Republican primary)

General election

General election for U.S. House New Mexico District 2

Yvette Herrell defeated incumbent Xochitl Torres Small and Steve Jones in the general election for U.S. House New Mexico District 2 on November 3, 2020.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Yvette Herrell
Yvette Herrell (R)
 
53.7
 
142,283
Image of Xochitl Torres Small
Xochitl Torres Small (D)
 
46.3
 
122,546
Image of Steve Jones
Steve Jones (Independent) (Write-in) Candidate Connection
 
0.0
 
117

Total votes: 264,946
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Watch the Candidate Conversation for this race!

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House New Mexico District 2

Incumbent Xochitl Torres Small advanced from the Democratic primary for U.S. House New Mexico District 2 on June 2, 2020.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Xochitl Torres Small
Xochitl Torres Small
 
100.0
 
48,095

Total votes: 48,095
Candidate Connection = 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 U.S. House New Mexico District 2

Yvette Herrell defeated Claire Chase and Chris Mathys in the Republican primary for U.S. House New Mexico District 2 on June 2, 2020.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Yvette Herrell
Yvette Herrell
 
44.7
 
26,968
Image of Claire Chase
Claire Chase
 
31.5
 
19,017
Image of Chris Mathys
Chris Mathys
 
23.8
 
14,378

Total votes: 60,363
Candidate Connection = 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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Campaign themes

2026

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Steve Jones has not yet completed Ballotpedia's 2026 Candidate Connection survey. If you are Steve Jones, click here to fill out Ballotpedia's 2026 Candidate Connection survey.

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2024

Steve Jones did not complete Ballotpedia's 2024 Candidate Connection survey.

Campaign website

Jones’s campaign website stated the following:

Strengthen the Economy
Fostering an environment that nurtures growth, innovation, and the creation of quality jobs is more than just an economic imperative; it’s a commitment to the future of our communities and our nation. Steve believes that the foundation of such an environment lies in the adoption of responsible fiscal policies. By advocating for balanced budgets, lower taxes, and the reduction of government spending, we create a financial framework that encourages businesses to invest, innovate, and expand. This isn’t just about numbers on a balance sheet; it’s about setting the stage for entrepreneurs and established businesses alike to thrive without being bogged down by financial burdens. Cutting through the maze of unnecessary red tape and regulations further empowers businesses, big and small, to navigate their paths with greater ease, turning innovative ideas into tangible opportunities that benefit us all.

Moreover, Steve’s commitment extends beyond the immediate financial incentives to a broader vision of workforce development. Recognizing that the strength of our economy rests on the shoulders of its workers, he champions policies that invest in education and skills training. This commitment is rooted in the belief that every American should have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving global economy. It’s about equipping our workforce with the knowledge and skills necessary not just to compete, but to lead in the innovation-driven marketplace. By supporting initiatives that bridge the gap between education and industry, Steve envisions a future where every individual can pursue their dreams and contribute meaningfully to our collective prosperity. This holistic approach underscores a deep-seated belief in the potential of our people and the pivotal role that strategic policy-making plays in unlocking that potential for generations to come.

Strong Borders
The call for comprehensive border security measures is grounded in the belief that a nation’s first responsibility is to its citizens’ safety and economic well-being. Prioritizing the implementation of robust border security strategies, including the strategic construction of physical barriers in key areas, is vital. These barriers serve not just as deterrents to illegal crossings but as critical components of a multi-layered defense strategy. Complementing physical structures with advanced surveillance technology ensures that our border enforcement agencies can monitor vast stretches more efficiently, identifying potential threats before they reach our doorsteps. The integration of drones, sensors, and other cutting-edge technologies into our border security arsenal enhances our ability to detect and deter illegal activities across diverse terrains, day and night.

Equally important is the augmentation of our border patrol forces. By increasing the presence of well-trained, well-equipped border patrol agents, we not only bolster our physical deterrent capabilities but also ensure a humane and swift response to those in need of assistance at the border. This approach underlines the importance of human judgment and compassion in enforcing our laws, ensuring that while we deter illegal crossings, we also safeguard the values that define us.

Securing our borders is a multifaceted endeavor with implications that extend far beyond the immediate areas of enforcement. It’s about protecting American workers from unfair competition by ensuring that employment opportunities are preserved for those who have entered the country through legal channels. It’s also about preventing the entry of criminals and contraband, thereby contributing to the safety and health of our communities. A secure border fosters a controlled, orderly immigration process, enabling us to welcome individuals who seek to contribute positively to our society. In essence, a balanced, comprehensive approach to border security is not just about fortifying our borders; it’s about affirming our commitment to the rule of law, economic prosperity, and the humanitarian principles upon which our nation was built.

Protect the 2A
Steve ardently believes that the Second Amendment is a cornerstone of American freedom, symbolizing the right of individuals to protect themselves, their families, and their properties. This belief is rooted in the understanding that law-abiding citizens should not be unduly hindered by excessive regulations when exercising their right to own and carry firearms for self-defense, hunting, and recreational shooting. Recognizing the importance of this constitutional right, Steve steadfastly opposes any legislative or regulatory attempts that aim to undermine or weaken it. He views such efforts as not only an infringement on personal freedoms but also as a misstep in addressing the broader issues of public safety and crime. Instead, Steve advocates for a balanced approach that respects the rights of responsible gun owners while addressing the concerns of community safety.

Furthermore, Steve’s commitment to safeguarding the Second Amendment is matched by his dedication to promoting responsible gun ownership. He champions education and training programs designed to emphasize the importance of safety and proper handling of firearms. By investing in comprehensive training that covers safe storage, handling, and usage, as well as the legal responsibilities of gun ownership, Steve believes we can create a culture of responsibility that enhances public safety. These programs serve a dual purpose: they not only ensure that individuals are well-prepared to exercise their rights safely but also work to dispel misconceptions about gun ownership. Steve’s vision is a society where the constitutional right to bear arms goes hand-in-hand with a strong commitment to responsibility, safety, and respect for the law, thereby fostering a safer environment for all. [2]

—Steve Jones’s campaign website (2024)[3]

2020

Candidate Conversations

Moderated by journalist and political commentator Greta Van Susteren, Candidate Conversations is a virtual debate format that allows voters to easily get to know their candidates through a short video Q&A. Click below to watch the conversation for this race.

Candidate Connection

Steve Jones completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2020. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Jones' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Formerly; management consultant for the energy industry worldwide, university accounting Instructor, partner in national CPA firm., producer of PBS weekly financial program and consultant to SBA for minority businesses. Awarded Soldier's Medal for Heroism as medic Staff Sgt..
  • Hyper Political Partisanship has created gridlock.
  • Socialism and liberal politics is threatening Medicare, Medicaid, and social security RIGHTS paid for by Retired and soon to be Retired Americans.
  • Xenophobia and intolerance is dividing Americans especially as it relates to our Hispanic history, culture and citizens.
1). Congress makes the laws of the land and should support compliance with the Constitution, federal legislation and Supreme Court decisions: regardless of their personal opinion.

2). America is broken due to the "Duopoly" created by the "win elections at all cost" policy of both the Democrats and Republicans.

3). New Mexico should be proud of it's HISPANIC history, culture and people and be the leader in using the USMCA to develop win-win projects with Mexico.

4). Independent voters and candidates need to unify to break the state and federal political gridlock.
Leonardo da Vinci for his great vision and creativity.

I would like to follow the example of Benjamin Franklin. He played a critical role in many different levels of the development of our nation, at great personal sacrifice and without seeking personal glory.

I know the request was to answer ONE question.
All of Thomas Jefferson's writings and the Strict Construction of the wording of the Constitution of the United States.
Country before party.

District interests above national interests.
If you are not a part of the solution, you are the problem.

How you look and how much money you have are important in High School Popularity not the basis for being a Citizen Representative.
Independent of Political Dogma

Education Level
Experience Level
International Experience
Strategic Planner
Problem Analysis
Analytical Thinker
Decorated member of military
Understanding of how to create successful minority and women owned businesses

Minor in Psychology in adolescent development/learning
Use the office to develop the districts rankings nationally on all of the metrics discussed above.
Growth of Independent Voters and Candidates

Reform the Citizen's House of Representatives
Federal protection of benefits earned and paid for by Seniors
Resolve permanently undocumented residents of US
Reform Immigration laws
Make respect for Hispanic history and culture mainstream for the United States
Develop and maintain at least one major commercial project in each major population center
Facilitate US/Mexico cultural and commercial joint ventures
A modern healthcare system

Technology based education and training for the future
Working in the school cafeteria as a 3rd grader to earn my lunch. I held it for two school years.
Second job, at which I actually received a pay check and PAID social security tax was working in a grocery store during my Junior and Senior years of high school.
The Prize by Daniel Yergin
It documents the history of the oil industry and provides needed to context to current misunderstandings.
Superman

I realize you requested an answer to "ONE" of the three questions but I felt compelled.
Ode to Joy

Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125, also known as Beethoven's 9th
Survival, professionally and financially through the boom bust cycles of the energy industry,
Overcoming an extremely negative home environment as a child and teenager
1) The creators of our nation envisioned a part of the legislature that would be compromised of citizens not career politicians or plutocrats. The short-term nature of their intended period in office and the small geographic districts was intended to make them more responsive to the local voters. The vote of the congressman was intended to represent the local citizens not national leaders or national lobbyists.

2). Without the intrusion of outside money and political organizations, the Representative would either represent the views of their district or another citizen would and should be elected.

3). This branch of government more accurately represents the collective view of all Americans when the house acts. This in contrast to the Senate with 2 per state or the Executive Branch elected indirectly by the electoral college. This can only be true if each Congressman does in fact represent their constituents in spite of their political party and outside influences.
As the intent of our founders was that representatives were citizens going to Washington to represent their constituents, there should be term limit forced turnover that assures that politicians do not control these positions. Political experience should disqualify Citizen Representatives.
1) Reverse the deterioration of federal institutions through judicial and inspector general review.

2) Understand and deal with the growing rage of Americans expressed in symptoms such as; road rage, violence against women and children, loss of respect for authority, mass shootings, political conversation, domestic terror and gun violence.
3) Educating and training Americans for future jobs without a life-time of debt.
4) Creation of medical options that allow Americans to make decisions about preventative medicine, life style choices, quality of healthcare and actual costs regardless of payment method.
5) Creation of a private-public infrastructure development organization.
6) Stop using immigration as a political football by reforming as needed but ENFORCE our laws.

7) Develop a Labor Department and Labor Union joint effort to create a sponsored residency for undocumented workers and skilled labor visa system.
Committee assignments are rewards for party loyalty, There is little doubt, an Independent will not be rewarded by their requested committee. I expect to be effective as a facilitator of communication between the parties, providing impartial analysis of congressional action and last and far more important, I will use the office to create efficiency and development within the District.

However, to answer your question my three choices would be; 1) Finance, 2) Energy, and 3) Trade and Commerce.
The better question is did the incumbent receive committee assignments because of ability or as a reward for party loyalty.
Yes, but should be limited to two terms. I will be voluntarily limited to two terms and seek to identify three potential successors to serve in each term as Staff or "Vice-Congressman.
Yes, see above. In addition, I support the ability for Congress to impeach a congressman and the district to file a petition of recall. These will never pass due to the Duopoly.
Our founders warned against an overly powerful political party system. We can see their fears realized at this time with the situation growing worse. I am aware of all of the good accomplished by both political parties. However, they need a referee or mediator to break the gridlock and restore logic instead of political dogma.
No, but the metrics reported by news media of New Mexico's rankings nationally for education, crime, GDP per capita, suitability for retirement, population decline, public lands per capita vs jobs per capita all are impactful.

Half of the state revenue come from an industry that most New Mexicans view as the enemy. Tourism is the second largest source of revenue but we show no warmth to outsiders.

You Tube is full of videos saying New Mexico is the Land of Entrapment no Enchantment.

Clearly, the state Duopoly is not helping New Mexicans but still has control.

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.

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.


Steve Jones campaign contribution history
YearOfficeStatusContributionsExpenditures
2026* U.S. House New Mexico District 1Candidacy Declared general$3,450 $2,950
2024* U.S. House New Mexico District 1Lost general$216,987 $191,416
2020U.S. House New Mexico District 2Lost general$9,405 $9,505
Grand total$229,841 $203,870
Sources: OpenSecretsFederal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete

See also


External links

Footnotes

  1. Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on March 22, 2020
  2. Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
  3. Steve Jones for Congress, “Issues,” accessed May 27, 2024


Senators
Representatives
District 1
District 2
District 3
Democratic Party (5)