POJOAQUE, NM — The Democratic Party of New Mexico (DPNM) State Central Committee met this Saturday after the state pre-primary convention to elect a Democratic National Committee (DNC) Committeeman and Committeewoman. Marty Chávez was elected DNC Committeeman, and Trish Ruiz was elected DNC Committeewoman. The elected Committeeman and Committeewoman will take office at the first DNC meeting in July 2020 after the 2020 Democratic National Convention. 

“We were thrilled to see so many wonderful people running to represent New Mexico on the national stage,” said DPNM Chair Marg Elliston.“Thank you to all of our candidates for running fantastic campaigns. Our Committeeman and Committeewoman are an important part of ensuring that New Mexico’s voice is heard in national Democratic politics, and we’re sure that Marty and Trish will continue to speak for all New Mexicans in these roles.” 

Learn more about DPNM’s new DNC Committeeman and Committeewoman: 

Marty Chávez

Marty Chávez is a former three-term mayor of Albuquerque and New Mexico State Senator. As mayor and as a state senator, he championed educational, economic, and environmental reforms. During his tenure, Albuquerque was named one of the top ten places to live in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report. 

In the past, Marty has served as the Executive Director of ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability USA and Chairman of the Advisory Board for the Center for Green Schools at U.S. Green Building Council. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF) and American Rivers. 

Trish Ruiz

Trish Ruiz is the Lea County Democratic Party Chair, and has been one of DPNM's most active supporters for years. Trish is particularly passionate about advocacy efforts on behalf of New Mexico citizens, health issues in rural New Mexico, and the coordination and implementation of community outreach services.

Trish is a counselor at Hobbs High Harold Murphy Alternative Learning Center serving at risk students. Previously, she was an Adjunct Professor at University of the Southwest where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Master’s Degree in Counseling. In the past, Trish has held the offices of NEA New Mexico Board of Directors, NEA National Hispanic Caucus Vice-Chair and Treasurer, and Co-Chair of Governor Lujan Grisham's Transition Team for Workforce Solutions, Workman’s Compensation, and State Personnel Office. Currently she serves on regional, state, and national boards and organizations including as Vice Chairwoman of the Public Education Commission, Vice President of Board of Trustees for Con Alma Health Foundation, and Board of Directors for NMPSIA.