Billy G. Garrett, Doña Ana County Commissioner and Democratic candidate for New Mexico Lieutenant Governor, released the following statement today regarding Senator Michael Padilla's decision to withdraw from the race for Lieutenant Governor:

"I am hopeful that the decision by Senator Padilla to discontinue his campaign will send a clear message that harassment and sexual assault are not acceptable behavior under any circumstances. Abuse should not be tolerated especially where one person is in a position of greater power over another," Garrett said. "This applies not only to women as potential victims but also to people of color, the LGBTQ community, workers, and the poor. New Mexico prides itself in being a state where people of many different cultures can live in harmony. This is only possible if we truly respect one another and vigorously address harassment of any kind."

Garrett concluded, "I am a strong advocate for social justice, and I want to thank Congresswoman Lujan Grisham for speaking out on this issue. I look forward to using the Office of the Lieutenant Governor to promote integrity and ethical behavior throughout New Mexico."

As a County Commissioner, Garrett led efforts that resulted in the censure and eventual removal of the Doña Ana County Treasurer from public office after he admitted to soliciting sex from a female employee.

The primary election will be held on June 5, 2018.