Teresa Garcia (New Mexico)
Teresa Garcia ran for election to the Albuquerque City Council to represent District 3 in New Mexico. She lost in the general runoff election on December 9, 2025.
Biography
Teresa Garcia was born in El Paso, Texas. She earned a high school diploma from Eastwood High School and a bachelor's degree from the University of New Mexico in 2015. Garcia's career experience includes working in communications, advocacy, and pharmaceuticals. As of 2024, Garcia was affiliated with Carrie Tingley Hospital, Enlace Comunitario, the Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence, the Southwest Community Policing Council, and ABQ Celebrates Recovery. She has also served as the chair of the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Commission for the City of Albuquerque, New Mexico.[1]
Elections
2025
See also: City elections in Albuquerque, New Mexico (2025)
General runoff election
General runoff election for Albuquerque City Council District 3
Incumbent Klarissa Peña defeated Teresa Garcia in the general runoff election for Albuquerque City Council District 3 on December 9, 2025.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Klarissa Peña (Nonpartisan) | 50.5 | 3,338 |
 | Teresa Garcia (Nonpartisan) | 49.5 | 3,270 | |
| Total votes: 6,608 | |||
 = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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General election
General election for Albuquerque City Council District 3
Incumbent Klarissa Peña and Teresa Garcia advanced to a runoff. They defeated Christopher Sedillo in the general election for Albuquerque City Council District 3 on November 4, 2025.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Klarissa Peña (Nonpartisan) | 41.4 | 2,727 |
| ✔ | | Teresa Garcia (Nonpartisan) | 37.8 | 2,491 |
 | Christopher Sedillo (Nonpartisan) | 20.8 | 1,371 | |
| Total votes: 6,589 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
- Natalia Saldana (Nonpartisan)
Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Garcia in this election.
2024
See also: New Mexico House of Representatives elections, 2024
General election
General election for New Mexico House of Representatives District 13
Incumbent Patricia Roybal Caballero won election in the general election for New Mexico House of Representatives District 13 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Patricia Roybal Caballero (D) | 100.0 | 5,817 |
| Total votes: 5,817 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for New Mexico House of Representatives District 13
Incumbent Patricia Roybal Caballero defeated Teresa Garcia in the Democratic primary for New Mexico House of Representatives District 13 on June 4, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Patricia Roybal Caballero | 57.8 | 514 |
| Teresa Garcia | 42.2 | 376 | |
| Total votes: 890 | |||
| = 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 Garcia in this election.
Campaign themes
2025
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Teresa Garcia did not complete Ballotpedia's 2025 Candidate Connection survey.
2024
Teresa Garcia completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Garcia's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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- I come into this race offering a fresh perspective and a new voice for the people of District 13. I am committed to amplifying the voices of my constituents and working collaboratively to address issues such as priority issues identified such as crime reform, support for small businesses, and infrastructure improvement. I am dedicated to being a representative who truly listens to the needs of her community and works tirelessly to enact positive solutions.
- As the daughter of an immigrant and a Vietnam Air Force Veteran, my upbringing in a multicultural household and fluency in Spanish have equipped me with a unique understanding of the needs of our community. I have advocated tirelessly for my family, serving as a translator and fighting for my father's benefits. Additionally, I have been a vocal advocate for the human right to safety for survivors in Albuquerque and across the state. As a dedicated community member, I am committed to ensuring that our voices are heard and our concerns are addressed. I am ready to fight for our community's seat at the table and that we are no longer forgotten.
- As the first in my family to run for office, I am deeply honored and excited to represent both my community in District 13 and my own family. Over the past several years, I have diligently built relationships and connections within our community, listening to the concerns and aspirations of its members. My primary goal is to ensure that our community is well-served and that we leave behind a legacy of progress and opportunity for future generations. By running for office, I hope to inspire others like me to believe that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a passion for making a difference. Together, we can create a brighter future for all residents of District 13 and beyond.
He taught me the importance of hard work, perseverance, and self-belief. From a young age, he encouraged me to pursue my goals with determination and reminded me that I was capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. His unwavering support and belief in my abilities gave me the confidence to overcome challenges and pursue my dreams.
My father also exemplified the values of honesty, kindness, and respect. He treated everyone he met with dignity and compassion, demonstrating the importance of empathy and understanding in our interactions with others.
Despite facing obstacles and adversity, my father never wavered in his commitment to providing for our family. He worked tirelessly to make ends meet, showing me the importance of resilience and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.
One of the most remarkable aspects of my father's legacy is his determination to support my education. Despite not having the opportunity to attend college himself, he saved diligently from his work at the flea market to help me pursue my academic aspirations. His selflessness and sacrifice have motivated me to make the most of the opportunities he worked so hard to provide.
Additionally, my father's service as a United States Air Force Vietnam War veteran instilled in me a deep sense of patriotism and pride. His love for his country and dedication to serving others serve as a constant reminder of the importance of giving back to our community and country.
Secondly, honesty is a cornerstone of my character. Transparency and integrity are fundamental to building trust with the community I serve, and I prioritize open and candid communication in all my interactions.
Additionally, kindness is a guiding principle in my approach to leadership. I believe in treating others with empathy, compassion, and respect, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration within our community.
Moreover, I hold myself accountable to the highest standards of ethics and responsibility. I recognize the importance of taking ownership of my actions and decisions, learning from mistakes, and striving for continuous improvement in service to my constituents.
Regardless of where we come from or the challenges we face, I believe that every individual has the potential to achieve their dreams and create a better future for themselves and their communities. As the first in my family to accomplish certain milestones, such as graduating from college and running for office, I want to inspire others to believe in their own abilities and pursue their goals with unwavering determination.
Central to my legacy is the value of kindness. I believe that small acts of compassion and empathy have the power to transform lives and build stronger, more connected communities. By leading with kindness and treating others with respect and understanding, I hope to leave a lasting impression of positivity and unity.
The immediate feeling I experienced was one of fear and disbelief as I realized the magnitude of what was happening in real-time. The events of 9/11 reshaped the world as we knew it, particularly in terms of global security and the geopolitical landscape.
The aftermath of the terrorist attacks had far-reaching consequences, not only in terms of the lives lost and the families affected but also in terms of the economic impact. Many families, including mine, experienced financial losses, as the stock market plummeted in the wake of the attacks.
This experience was incredibly impactful for me. It taught me the importance of communication and initiative as I learned how to interact with customers, introduce myself, and strike up conversations. Moreover, it gave me firsthand insight into the value of hard work and earning a dollar.
Watching my parents tirelessly clean and fix items to turn a profit was inspiring. They were true entrepreneurs, running a small business that made a significant impact on who I am today. Their dedication and work ethic left a lasting impression on me, instilling in me the importance of perseverance and resourcefulness.
The book beautifully captures the complexities of navigating multiple identities and the pressure to assimilate in a society that often expects individuals from marginalized communities to conform to a certain mold. Arce's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing our cultural heritage and being proud of where we come from, even as we strive to succeed in a world that may not always fully embrace our identities.
As someone who also comes from proud indigenous roots, particularly belonging to the Tarahumara Raramuri Tribe from Chihuahua, Mexico, I find solace and inspiration in Arce's journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Her courage to share her story authentically encourages me to embrace my own heritage and celebrate the rich tapestry of my cultural background.
"You Sound like a White Girl" serves as a testament to the resilience and strength of individuals who refuse to be defined by societal expectations and instead embrace their true selves. It's a reminder that our differences are our greatest strengths and that our unique backgrounds should be celebrated, not suppressed.
Navigating the aftermath of domestic violence, including accessing support services, seeking justice, and rebuilding my life, has been an uphill battle. The stigma surrounding domestic violence, along with systemic barriers within our society, can often make it difficult for survivors to receive the support and resources they need to heal and thrive.
Despite the challenges I've faced, I am grateful for the strength and resilience that has allowed me to overcome adversity. My personal experiences have driven me to become a vocal advocate for survivors of domestic violence, working to raise awareness, challenge societal norms, and push for systemic change.
Respect, open communication, and transparency are the foundations of any productive relationship. Most importantly, we must hold ourselves, each other, and our community accountable. By fostering these values, we can build a government that truly serves the people and addresses the needs and aspirations of our community.
What truly matters is their determination, commitment, and the fresh perspectives they bring to the table. Understanding the basics of politics is valuable, but the drive to serve the community, along with a willingness to learn and collaborate, are equally crucial. Diverse backgrounds and experiences can enrich the legislative process and lead to more innovative and inclusive solutions.
Our constituents elected us to make our communities better places for all, and achieving this goal requires cooperation and mutual support among legislators. Strong relationships enable us to pool our diverse perspectives and expertise, leading to more comprehensive and effective solutions. Ultimately, our collective efforts can drive positive change and serve the best interests of the people we represent.
Another memorable experience was meeting a veteran who needed support. After a heartfelt conversation that lasted for hours, I was able to assist him in getting his flag displayed alongside other community members. It was a small gesture, but it highlighted the importance of standing in solidarity with those who have served our country.
Additionally, I am incredibly grateful for the support shown by community members who testified on my behalf when their signatures were contested. Their willingness to stand up for what they believe in and fight alongside me has been inspiring. These individuals have not only become friends but have reinforced my belief in the power of community solidarity.
Emergency powers should not be unchecked or indefinite. The legislature plays a vital role in representing the interests of the people and ensuring that emergency measures are proportionate, temporary, and in line with democratic values. This oversight can help prevent potential abuses of power and ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of the public.
Recent events, such as the tragic shooting at a charter school graduation, have highlighted the urgent need for increased security measures. It's deeply concerning that such a joyous occasion could be marred by senseless violence, leaving families and students traumatized.
The bill I would propose aims to ensure that metal detectors are installed at all school events, including graduations, where large gatherings of students, families, and community members occur. These metal detectors would serve as a crucial deterrent against potential threats and provide an added layer of security to prevent weapons from entering school premises.
Furthermore, my bill would emphasize the importance of accountability for event venues in implementing these safety measures. It's unacceptable that proper security protocols were not in place at the graduation where the tragic incident occurred. We must hold venue operators accountable for ensuring the safety of attendees at all events, particularly those involving our youth.
As a new candidate, I am committed to earning the trust and support of our community through hard work, transparency, and integrity. Whether or not I am the incumbent in the next election, I believe that endorsements should be based on merit and the ability to deliver results for our community.
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.
See also
2025 Elections
External links
Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on May 17, 2024
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