EL PASO, Texas – With Election Day just a week away, voters in Dona Ana County are hearing directly from the two candidates seeking the county’s top law‑enforcement post. Republican Todd Garrison and Democrat Vanessa Ordoñez sat down with ABC‑7’s Marcel Clarke to explain how they would address the surge in juvenile gun violence and restore confidence in the sheriff’s office.
Candidate perspectives on juvenile gun violence
Both candidates agreed that protecting children from firearms is a top priority. Garrison emphasized the need for stronger partnerships with schools, parents, and community groups to identify at‑risk youth early. He suggested expanding existing youth‑intervention programs and increasing resources for law‑enforcement officers who work directly with schools.
Ordoñez highlighted the importance of preventative measures, including expanding mental‑health services and offering more after‑school activities that keep young people engaged. She called for a transparent review of the sheriff’s current policies on firearm access by minors and pledged to work with local leaders to develop a comprehensive strategy.
Building trust between the sheriff’s office and residents
Trust was a recurring theme in the interview. Garrison argued that a sheriff must be visible and accountable, proposing regular town‑hall meetings and a community‑policing model that encourages dialogue. Ordoñez echoed the call for openness, noting that community input should shape the office’s priorities and that regular reporting on crime trends would help residents stay informed.
Election logistics
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3. Early voting in New Mexico ends this Saturday, Oct. 31. Voters can find resources and ABC‑7’s voter guide on the station’s “Your Voice, Your Vote” page. Both candidates encouraged eligible voters to cast their ballots and to consider the impact of the sheriff’s leadership on public safety and community cohesion.
Why the race matters for Dona Ana County
The sheriff’s office plays a critical role in maintaining public safety across the county’s rural and urban areas. With recent incidents involving juveniles and firearms drawing attention statewide, the upcoming election offers residents a chance to choose a leader whose policies align with their values of family safety, personal liberty, and community trust.
As the campaign enters its final stretch, Garrison and Ordoñez will continue to meet voters at local events, churches, and community centers, reinforcing the importance of faith‑based and family‑centered approaches to law enforcement. Their messages reflect a shared commitment to protecting children while respecting constitutional rights and the traditions that bind the county’s neighborhoods together.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
