Educator Paula Papponi, a Republican, announced yesterday her candidacy for the District 60 seat in the state House of Representatives currently held by Tom Swisstack.
Swisstack, a Democrat, is running in the March 4 special election to become Rio Rancho’s next mayor. According to The SCORE, if he’s successful – he’s currently considered the frontrunner in a three-person race – he’ll have to resign from his legislative seat.
Papponi is associate director of a program that oversees three organizations responsible for accrediting high schools and colleges. She has served as superintendent for the Jemez Valley and Carrizozo public schools and is a former principal of Ruidoso Middle School and assistant principal of Los Alamitos Middle School in Grants. She is also a former teacher.
“Improving education is a lifelong passion of mine. I look forward to writing and passing legislation in support of teachers and legislation that will better equip New Mexico children with the knowledge they need to lead prosperous, ethical lives,” Papponi said in a news release. “I am committed to lowering the heavy tax burden currently faced by New Mexicans, encouraging business creation and job growth in the Rio Rancho area, as well as strengthening the ethical fabric of our state government. I believe that politics is the art of the possible.”
Papponi is a graduate of New Mexico State University and the University of New Mexico, and is married to Gabriel Papponi. They have three children and five grandchildren.
“In Rio Rancho, and in the entire state of New Mexico, I see the opportunity for a future of wonderful and endless possibilities,” Papponi said. “My life has prepared me for public service, and I am eager to work in the legislature to better the lives of New Mexico families.”
Educator Paula Papponi, a Republican, announced yesterday her candidacy for the District 60 seat in the state House of Representatives currently held by Tom Swisstack.