Dear Santa Fe!

I am a Native New Mexican, raised on green chile, arroyo walks, and watermelon sunsets, my roots to our community are vast. I am a 28-year-old Indigenous leader who has dedicated my life to one mission: protecting our children, young people, and families. My determination is rooted in my own lived experience as an alumni of the NM foster care system. I am in this to protect the lives behind the numbers, because I know that policy IS personal.

My service to community began in 2005 (don’t worry, I did the math for you!) at 10 years old when I earned my first “badge” as a Peer Conflict Mediator, navigating the intense climate of my 5th grade playground. My name on this certificate was listed as “Veronica Howard”, because I was simultaneously in the midst of transitioning from foster care to adoption. Throughout my lifetime, I’ve navigated much personal hardship and what has kept me going strong is service. 

I’ve had the best hands-on education I could ask for before running for office: quickly working my way from a campaign assistant to now serving as the Leadership Analyst and a Child Welfare Specialist beside one of our state’s greatest policy giants, House Majority Leader Gail Chasey.

Before joining Leader Chasey’s Team, I spent 5 years working directly with system-impacted young people and built the Mentorship, Advocacy, and Peer Support Program, from the ground up for CASA First, a local nonprofit. I am deeply committed to continuing to fight for our New Mexican children and families, so they may live holistically well and safe lives.

Heading into one of the most critical election years of our history, I know I am the voice we’ve never had but NEED in the New Mexico Senate. I am a leader centered in compassion, courage, and fierce community. I am READY to be a champion for our future. I need your help to get there, please join me in my mission to serve in Senate District 24!

In this fight with you,

 Veronica