Sen. Papen announces re-election bid

State Sen. Mary Kay Papen, D-Las Cruces, has announced that she is running for re-election this year.

Papen, who represents District 38, has served in the Senate since 2000. In a news release, she said she has championed mental health, affordable housing reform, water rights adjudication and education. Papen serves on the interim Water and Natural Resources Committee, the interim Health and Human Services Committee and was recently selected to serve on the Senate Finance Committee.

“The people of Senate District 38 deserve a conscientious advocate and a strong voice in Santa Fe. I believe I have been that voice and am eager to keep working hard for my constituents,” Papen said. “I plan to continue the important work I have started on reforming the affordable housing process and seeking more opportunities for District 38 residents.”

Papen has also worked to secure funding for infrastructure projects in her district, especially in the colonias. She has been one of the major contributors of capital outlay for the Las Cruces downtown revitalization project, New Mexico State University and various parks and roads throughout Las Cruces and Doña Ana County.

Papen said fighting for mental-health services for New Mexicans who need them will continue to remain one of her top priorities.