LAS CRUCES — In the November 5 election, Democratic Rep. Raymundo “Ray” Lara secured an unopposed fifth term in the New Mexico House of Representatives for District 34, which covers the southern portion of Doña Ana County, including San Miguel, La Mesa, Chamberino, La Union, Santa Teresa and Sunland Park.
Vote totals and ballot status
Official returns show Lara received 5,366 votes. No other candidate appeared on the ballot, and all 20 precincts were listed as partially reporting when the results were compiled.
Infrastructure remains a top priority
In a written response to Organ Mountain News, Lara emphasized that the core challenges facing his constituents have changed little. “We continue to have communities dealing with inadequate roads, drainage problems, flooding, and aging water and wastewater systems,” he said. “These aren’t new issues, and they aren’t going to resolve themselves.”
Lara pledged to keep pursuing state and federal funding for these projects while monitoring agency implementation to ensure public money is used effectively.
Education and health‑care focus
As chair of the House Democratic caucus and vice chair of the Transportation, Public Works and Capital Improvements Committee, Lara also highlighted education and health‑care as key parts of his agenda. He noted progress in literacy and math achievement but stressed the need for continued attention to classroom realities and teacher support.
During the 2026 legislative session, Lara co‑sponsored House Bill 47, which passed both chambers unanimously and was signed into law on March 9. The law requires public school districts and charter schools to cover at least 80 % of employees’ group health‑insurance costs and mandates a study of the sustainability of those costs for the 2027 session.
On health‑care, Lara said the region must attract and retain medical professionals and improve access to services closer to home, a concern for many families living near the border.
Economic development and community voice
Lara stressed that growth should benefit the communities where it occurs and that residents deserve a voice in decisions affecting them. He referenced his August 2025 commentary urging investment in water infrastructure, workforce preparation and regional cooperation to support responsible development around Sunland Park and Santa Teresa.
He added that effective constituent service often means “bringing the right people together, asking difficult questions, and making sure government agencies are doing what they’re supposed to do,” rather than simply passing more legislation.
Legislative calendar
The 60‑day New Mexico legislative session is set to begin on Jan. 19, 2027, giving Lara a new window to advance his infrastructure, education and health‑care priorities for District 34.
For constituents wishing to contact Rep. Lara, his office remains open for calls, emails and in‑person meetings throughout the district.
Original reporting: Organ Mountain News (Las Cruces / Doña Ana County) — read the source article.
