Politicians do not create jobs. Politicians do not generate goods and services. Yet, politicians continuously implement barriers to small businesses in New Mexico. It is no wonder why New Mexico consistently ranks as one of the poorest states in the United States. The thought that New Mexico can tax businesses and workers into prosperity has failed. Furthermore, increased taxes and penalties only serve to disincentivize economic growth.

We need to remove the red tape, engage, and support small businesses, not penalize them. Small business owners are the true job creators of Lea County, especially in our energy industry. Ironically, the New Mexico Legislature has passed laws that harm small businesses under the guise of standing up for New Mexico workers. Tragically, each of these laws has only served to disincentivize businesses from coming into New Mexico. In return, it has limited work opportunities for New Mexico workers. It’s time for New Mexico to abandon its broken model and pursue prosperity by entrusting small businesses and workers, not the government, to fuel the economy.

“I stand to remove the hands of Santa Fe politicians from the pockets of Lea County small businesses and their workers.”