 “I support an Apollo Project for energy that would summon the collective energy of the federal and state governments, private industry, labor, non-profit research groups, and colleges and universities across the nation. This intense change in direction would create three million new, high paying 'green-collar' jobs for Americans all over the country and in New Mexico.” Martin Heinrich is a natural born leader. From his youth, Heinrich has prized the values of public service and responsibility to his community. Inspired by his hopes for his two young sons, Martin entered public service because of his deep love this country, his respect for the beautiful environment in which we live, and because he wants to ensure the next generation of Americans have more and better opportunities than the last generation. Today, Martin is running for Congress to represent New Mexico's 1st District because he is determined to make life better for working Americans.
Heinrich's determination to serve in Congress stems largely from his passion to protect the environment and deep concern regarding our nation's energy crisis. Once elected, Heinrich will work to move our nation to energy independence. Involved with clean, alternative energy since he was an engineering student at the University of Missouri, Heinrich abhors our dependence on foreign oil because he believes it fuels hostile relationships between governments and endangers Americans. Ultimately, a change toward renewable energy sources would benefit our nation's economy and national security.
As an active conservationist and the Natural Resources Trustee for the State of New Mexico, Heinrich has worked with Governor Bill Richardson to clean up contaminated land and protect our natural environment. In 2006, he worked to pass conservation legislation and acquired funding from the City of Albuquerque to buy 67 acres in the Sandia Mountain Wilderness. This purchase was significant because it provided a safe haven for wildlife and gave all Americans the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of New Mexico's wilderness for perpetuity. Additionally, while serving on the Albuquerque City Council, Heinrich was a key player in passing legislation that gave New Mexicans great incentive to purchase hybrids—a move that will greatly benefit New Mexico's pristine environment.
Heinrich is a fighter for every working America. While serving on the Albuquerque City Council, he worked tirelessly to increase the city's minimum wage to $7.50. To pass this law and give New Mexicans better pay, he was persistent in reaching out to leaders on both sides of the issue to find a common solution that would benefit a greater number of working families in New Mexico.
Without question, Heinrich is a progressive leader in his community and 21st Century Democrats knows that once in office, his determination to protect our environment and give a voice to working families will improve our country. Heinrich will work to stop rising energy costs, make health care affordable for all Americans, and end the crisis in Iraq. Once serving in Congress, he will enact real changes with real leadership that will ensure a strong and progressive leap forward in our new century.
Race Facts
Race Type: Open Seat
Primary Election Opponent: Rebecca Vigil-Giron, Michelle Lujan-Grisham, Robert Pidcock
Primary Election Date: June 3, 2008
Primary Election Result: Won
General Election Opponents: Darren White
General Election Date: November 4, 2008
General Election Result: Won, 55.5% - 44.5%
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