Albuquerque, NM - This morning, Michelle Lujan Grisham and Howie Morales issued the following statement regarding the passing of Representative Lorenzo Larrañaga:

Michelle Lujan Grisham said: “I was saddened to learn of Representative Lorenzo Larrañaga’s passing and I express my condolences to his family. He will be remembered as a man who loved his family, lived out his values, and was deeply committed to serving the citizens of New Mexico.

“Rep. Larrañaga’s work on the New Mexico House Appropriations and Finance Committee led to the creation of the state’s Rainy Day Fund that protects New Mexico’s financial future. While serving as Health Cabinet Secretary, I deeply appreciated Rep. Larrañaga’s leadership and cooperation in helping to build the framework for New Mexico’s healthcare exchange, which gave many more individuals and families the ability to have access to healthcare.

“At a time of deep national partisan divide, Rep. Larrañaga’s willingness to work across the aisle on critical issues serves as an important reminder that we must seek out ways to collaborate, believe in each other, and take advantage of the opportunities to bring meaningful and positive change to the people and families of New Mexico.”

"I was honored to serve with Representative Larrañaga on the Legislative Finance Committee working in a bipartisan way to craft a budget for all New Mexicans,” said Senator Howie Morales. “He was a strong voice for his constituents and will be greatly missed in the Roundhouse, his district, and across New Mexico."