Albuquerque – Voters in New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District heard a spirited exchange Tuesday as Republican challenger Ndidiamaka Okpareke and incumbent Democrat Melanie Stansbury laid out their visions for the community. The debate, organized by KOAT Action 7 News and Partners for Impact, focused on three core concerns: economic hardship, rising gas prices, and the future of public education.
Economic hardship and federal assistance
Stansbury opened by describing the district’s struggle to make ends meet. She emphasized that many families cannot afford a roof, food, or fuel, and she blamed “the disastrous economic policies of the current president.” She pointed to the millions of dollars she has helped bring home for housing, food assistance, and health programs, insisting that federal programs are “how people survive in our communities.”
Okpareke countered that, despite the touted federal dollars, no family in the district has felt a tangible benefit. As a small‑business owner and mother, she argued that the district needs a representative who will “advocate for every single family” by expanding health coverage, creating jobs, and ensuring affordability.
Gas prices and inflation
When asked how to lower gas costs, Okpareke praised the district for surviving “the terrible Biden administration” that saw inflation climb above 20 %. She said the solution lies in cutting taxes, expanding job opportunities, and opening the state to new industries such as pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Stansbury blamed the “illegal and unconstitutional war in Iran” and ongoing tariffs for driving up fuel and food prices. She called for ending those policies, restoring Medicaid and Medicare, and continuing federal investments in education, infrastructure, and youth programs to secure a long‑term economic future.
Education and the future of students
Stansbury, a graduate of Cibola High School, highlighted her role in passing legislation that makes New Mexico the first state to guarantee free childcare and early‑childhood education. She noted that she has secured millions for K‑12 schools, colleges, and trade programs, arguing that such investments are essential to lift students out of poverty.
Okpareke challenged the incumbent’s record, noting that New Mexico ranks 50th in education and accusing Stansbury of having “created absolutely no laws.” She urged voters to choose a candidate who can deliver concrete results rather than “rhetoric and gaslighting.”
Other topics
The candidates also discussed models for education reform, with Okpareke citing Mississippi’s focus on fundamentals and Stansbury pointing to her own federal successes in early‑childhood education. They touched on the pending release of the Epstein files, upcoming Medicaid changes in January, and concerns about alleged DEA involvement in “fentanyl walking.” Both said they would forgo pay during a government shutdown and shared their views on artificial intelligence and federal workforce policies aimed at reducing food insecurity.
Voters can watch the full debate online for a complete look at each candidate’s positions.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
