Gabrielle "Gabby" Begay has announced her candidacy as a Democrat for New Mexico House of Representatives, District 39.

Begay is a lifelong resident of Grant County. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Western New Mexico University, and while a student there was appointed to the Board of Regents. Begay received her Masters of Education in Teaching and Learning from the University of the Southwest. Gabby has worked as an educator for the past 5 years and is currently a 1st Grade teacher at Jose Barrios Elementary. She also has completed fellowships with National Teach Plus and New Mexico Teach Plus which focus on education policy and advocacy work in education.

"I chose education as my profession so that I can empower, inspire, and educate the future generations.

Being an educator has opened my eyes to the fact that things need to change in order for our students to thrive and flourish in New Mexico." Begay's initial focus will be on improving the quality of public education, and on increasing access to healthcare in the local rural part of the state. At the same time, she realizes that Grant County residents face other important challenges such as ensuring adequate affordable housing, increasing economic opportunities . . . particularly for its young people, and maintaining safe towns and neighborhoods. In working to make progress on all of these issues, Gabby will continue to use her approach of fostering and building relationships with all stakeholders, bringing people together to solve problems and to build the future.

Begay has been involved in various community activities, including as a member of the Copper Little League board, as the current Board President of the Cobre Consolidated Board of Education. and as commissioner for the southwest region of the state on the New Mexico Commission on the Status of Women. "I come from a middle-class working household and know the importance of hard work, dedication, and collaboration in serving my community. I believe in transparency, integrity, and open communication. I have some experience at the Roundhouse, having served as a legislative assistant, and I would be honored now to serve as your state representative. I would appreciate your support in the 2024 election!

For further information, contact Gabby Begay at BegayforNMHouse@gmail.com or 575-574-7951.