SANTA FE, NM – House Republican Whip Alan Martinez (R- Rio Rancho) is calling on Attorney General Raúl Torrez to immediately investigate whether Rep. Andrea Romero (D- Santa Fe) violated state law by accepting a state-funded position while serving in the New Mexico Legislature.
Romero was hired on May 23, 2026, as an Assistant Trial Attorney while serving as a sitting legislator. New Mexico law prohibits legislators from receiving compensation as state officers or employees, with potential violations carrying felony penalties.
"This is not a technical ethics question that can be brushed aside," Martinez said. "State law appears clear, and the Attorney General's own office has previously stated that a legislator cannot serve as an assistant district attorney. If these laws were violated, New Mexicans deserve answers and accountability."
Martinez's letter also asks the Attorney General to investigate the role of First Judicial District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies in authorizing or facilitating Romero's employment and compensation.
"No legislator is above the law," Martinez said. "Attorney General Torrez should investigate this immediately and determine whether state law was violated."
