Ben Ray Luján has represented New Mexico in the U.S. Senate since 2021, after more than a decade in the House — including a stint in Democratic leadership. He’s closely associated with broadband expansion, rural healthcare access, clean energy transition, and tribal investment.
He’s pushed hard on equitable infrastructure for underserved areas, especially internet access and healthcare capacity in rural and Native communities. He also frames climate and renewables as both an economic development strategy and a moral obligation.
Ideologically he’s seen as progressive on social and economic policy, but he still thinks in terms of deliverables (funding, access, programs) rather than pure messaging. That blend makes him popular with New Mexico Democrats, but also a target for Republicans who call the agenda expensive.
Progressive
Achievements
- Drove broadband expansion funding for rural and tribal New Mexico
- Backed major clean energy and climate transition investments
- Worked on lowering healthcare and prescription costs for rural communities
- Secured federal resources for tribal services, language, and infrastructure
- Championed mental health and opioid treatment programs across underserved regions
Controversies
- Criticized by Republicans for supporting tax hikes to fund social programs
- Framed by some moderates as too closely aligned with House/Senate Democratic leadership
- Pushback from oil & gas interests over clean energy push
- Accused of prioritizing national climate goals over short-term drilling and extraction jobs
- Local criticism that national messaging sometimes overshadows immediate economic pain in fossil fuel counties
Top Donors
| Donor | Total | Individuals | PACs |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Assn of Broadcasters | $71,370 | $56,370 | $15,000 |
| Democratic Senatorial Campaign Cmte | $49,600 | $0 | $49,600 |
| University of New Mexico | $42,098 | $42,098 | $0 |
| Akin, Gump et al | $29,567 | $22,067 | $7,500 |
| Forbes Tate Partners | $28,600 | $28,600 | $0 |
Amounts shown reflect organization-linked giving; most funds listed here are from individual donors or aligned PACs.
Recent Elections
2020 Margin D +5.9%