Susana Martinez
Republican gubernatorial candidate Susana Martinez is trying to solidify her support in San Juan County by announcing the endorsements of two more legislators from the area.
Martinez announced the backing of state Reps. James R.J. Strickler, R-Farmington, and Paul Bandy, R-Aztec, in a news release this weekend.
“I have decided to stand with Susana because I believe she has the experience and credentials necessary to make the bold changes we need in New Mexico,” Strickler said in the release. “She has put forward a comprehensive energy plan that will do away with burdensome regulations, harness our natural resources in an environmentally sound way and position New Mexico as a leader so we can create jobs and grow our economy.”
Bandy said Martinez “is the candidate who has captured the imagination of the electorate in San Juan County and represents the values we believe in.”
“As governor, she will implement an economic plan that will make our state more competitive, attract new jobs and make it easier for our small businesses to grow and prosper,” he said.
The representatives join Sen. William Sharer, R-Farmington, as a trio of legislative endorsements from San Juan County. Overall, Martinez has the endorsements of 13 state senators and representatives – far more than any other candidate in the Republican gubernatorial primary.
Update, 12:55 p.m.
I failed to mention earlier that Martinez has the endorsement of another senator from San Juan County – Steven Neville, R-Aztec.
Also, earlier today the Martinez campaign announced the endorsement of another state representative, Larry Larrañaga, R-Albuquerque.
“I believe Susana Martinez has the background and experience not only to be our state’s next governor, but to turn New Mexico around and create real progress for families and small businesses,” Larrañaga said in a news release. “As this campaign has progressed, Susana has demonstrated a real understanding of how she would approach the challenges confronting our state and the enthusiasm generated by her candidacy is not something I have seen in some time. I look forward to supporting Susana, voting for her and working to communicate her message of bold change.”