100 Days and 100 Reasons to Vote for Ben Ray!

Today marks 100 days out from the most important election of our lifetime, and Team Luján is FIRED UP and ready!

Over the next 100 days, our staff and volunteers will continue to reach out to voters across New Mexico and build the foundation for big wins in November. Since this campaign launched last year, we’ve built a strong base of support in each of New Mexico’s 33 counties, with enthusiastic voters who represent the diversity that makes our state strong.

In honor of today’s 100-day milestone, we’ve asked 100 New Mexicans from around the state to share the reasons why they support Ben Ray. Scroll down to read all 100 reasons — and click here to share your own!

1. Ben Ray Luján has been one of the biggest advocates for the Affordable Care Act. Before the Affordable Care Act, people in rural New Mexico had an enormous amount of difficulty getting mental health treatment. Now, many more are coming in ahead of schedule and getting the care they need. — Ralph Moya, Quay County
2. I’m supporting Ben Ray for the U.S. Senate because he always puts working New Mexicans first. He knows the importance of unions for workers and always supports policies which put people over profit. — John Dyrcz, Bernalillo County
3. I am voting for Ben Ray because he is grounded in connection and relationship to the Indigenous people of New Mexico, the land, and children. — Trisha Moquino, Cochiti Pueblo
4. I’m extremely proud to support Ben Ray for the U.S. Senate because he is representative of the diversity of our state and has proven that he will fight for all of us. He’s a champion for the people and I can count on him to represent my values and my community. — Las Cruces City Councilor Gabe Vasquez, Doña Ana County
5. Congressman Luján has proven to be a leader through his dedication and commitment to serving New Mexico Veterans. He has also been advocating for the preservation of our water resources! — Teddy Trujillo, Harding County
6. Ben Ray assisted me with cutting through the lack of response and delays of the VA by sending several letters on my behalf in an attempt to help procure for me a necessary surgical procedure. Ben Ray is responsive, empathetic, and effective — Raye Malzhan, Mora County
7. I support Rep Ben Ray Luján because he’s been fighting for the underdog his whole political career. He cares greatly about the success of our state’s people and he will be an amazing senator. — Isaac Casados, Rio Arriba County
8. Ya’at’eeh, Ben Ray Luján has proven himself, has shown his leadership, has visited the constituents. We know him. We will vote for him. — Navajo Nation Council Delegate Daniel Tso, San Juan County
9. When I received an outrageous medical bill, I reached out to Ben Ray Luján’s office for help. While their office was not directly able to resolve my issue, they spent a lot of time giving me contacts for different agencies that might be able to help me. What I really appreciated, is 6 months later a member of his staff called me back to see how I had made out. I was very impressed with the concern of the staff, which reflects on the candidate. For that reason alone, Mr. Luján has my vote. — Roberta Senecal, Sandoval County
10. During this global pandemic of the Novel Coronavirus from the very beginning to present day. Ben Ray has continued to provide to New Mexicans, evolving information on COVID-19. He has directed the public on resources available in their communities for a better quality of life in this great time of need. — Juliana Lucero, Santa Fe County
11. Ben Ray Luján is full of compassion, energy and positivity. He is the best candidate and we are all lucky to have him represent us. — Sid Bryan, Sierra County
12. I know that he will work hard for New Mexico and understands the challenges of rural areas. — Carol Courtney, Socorro County
13. I am voting for Ben Ray Luján because he’s the right person to continue representing me. It’s vital he’s elected. We need a more diverse Senate. I also feel he is right on the issues that impact my family in New Mexico! — Angela Spotts, Taos County
14. He knows us New Mexicans very well! Very caring, intelligent, respectful and we love him! — Alicia deHerrera, Valencia County
15. He’s the right guy for the job. He has integrity and he cares about New Mexico . — Randal Brown, Guadalupe County
16. I support Ben Ray Luján because he’s a native New Mexican who holds values that are true for New Mexicans everywhere and because he will create new jobs and build on Tom Udall’s legacy. — Caleb Garcia, Lea County
17. Congressman Ben Ray Luján is the RIGHT choice! He has a deep, personal understanding of the people of New Mexico, and shares the values and priorities that matter to us. As a tireless champion for New Mexicans, he will continue fighting for us as a U.S. Senator. — JoAnn Balzer, Santa Fe County
18. As a New Mexican and Native woman, I support my Congressman Ben Ray Luján for New Mexico senator for several reasons. I am proud that a multi generation New Mexican is the Assistant House Democratic Leader, the highest ranking Hispanic in Congress. He is known for his efforts to preserve our natural resources and sacred sites and understands the needs and lifestyle of rural New Mexicans. — Denise Kirksey, Union County
19. I support him because of his courageous leadership, and because, if you drive up to his northern New Mexico home, you’ll probably see him driving a tractor. — State Representative Gail Chasey, Bernalillo County
20. Ben recognizes the needs of the people and works to make all of our lives better. — Dennis Derkács, Los Alamos County
21. BECAUSE HE CARES!!! — Eski Tenorio, Bernalillo County
22. I am supporting Ben Ray Luján for Senate because he cares about the people of New Mexico, he has honor and integrity, and he is a good listener and a fighter. At a time when the world is in such turmoil I can count on Ben Ray to do the next right thing. — Ray Messier, Catron County
23. Ben Ray is a strong voice for our New Mexico families. He will represent our values with integrity, honor and compassion! — Las Cruces City Councilor Kasandra Gandara, Doña Ana County
24. Ben Ray Luján has our 6. Every American can rest well at night knowing Ben Ray Luján is on the job keeping us safe. — Ken Riege, McKinley County
25. New Mexicans deserve a public servant who can fill the shoes of Senator Tom Udall. Ben Ray Luján has been a fierce leader for New Mexico in the House of Representatives, and I will be proud to vote for him as our next U.S. Senator. — Representative Deb Haaland
26. I am a Realtor and the National Association of Realtors has endorsed him. He has always supported all home ownership issues. New Mexico should be very proud to have him in the Senate. — Lela Holmes, San Juan County
27. Ben Ray is a highly seasoned leader in Congress. He presided with wisdom, unity for all citizens, and economic advancement. We are wise to elect Ben Ray to our senior legislative duties; United States Senate. — Jeff Swanson, Otero County
28. Ben Ray has been an effective advocate for New Mexico’s environment, public lands preservation, sustainable water use, citizens access to health care and better education opportunities. He is a true son of New Mexico and understands what makes this place the Land of Enchantment. — John Bloch, Mora County
29. He really cares about the people of New Mexico. I feel like he’s got our backs. — Alexis Jimenez, Sandoval County
30. He’s already done a good job and I have no doubt that he will continue. He’s thoughtful, he checks in with his constituents, he does his research, and he does things with appropriate forethought. — Linde Schuster, Colfax County
31. Ben Ray Luján and the Luján family have a deep knowledge and love for New Mexico, its diverse peoples and history. He personifies the Democratic “big tent” values of our unique culture and will fight to uphold them. — Roger Taylor, Santa Fe County
32. Ben Ray Luján stands for decency. Ben Ray Luján stands for compassion. Ben Ray Luján stands for New Mexico. — Kelley Ridings, Sierra County
33. He is awesome and supportive of the Native American community! — Julius Elwood, McKinley County
34. He is a hard working public servant, a decent and compassionate man, and has supported many critical areas needing Democratic leadership: the public option; Native American health care; renewable energy; and keeping drilling and extraction out of Chaco Canyon. — Virginia King, Santa Fe County
35. I support Ben Ray because he leads by example and always demonstrates courage to stand up for our values in the face of opposition. I’ve observed Ben Ray be confronted by very passionate people with opposing views. Ben Ray always listens with respect, integrity, and fairness. Ben Ray will respond in the same manner, stays committed to his philosophies, and takes the time to explain why he voted for a certain bill or supported a certain policy. — Josh Sanchez, Valencia County
36. The country would be better off if every state had someone like Mr. Luján as their senator. He is a decent, kind, compassionate and caring person. An outstanding role model for any politician running for office, to emulate. — Pam Tompkins, Quay County
37. He shares my values and goals. He works hard for New Mexico every day. He has gained valuable leadership experience during his House service. He will step into the Senate fully ready to meet the challenge. — Mary Robert, Bernalillo County
38. I certainly hope we keep a Democrat in the Senate to represent us especially in Southeastern New Mexico. The pollution down here in this part of the world and the climate change especially need to be addressed, and Democrats are a little more focused on those things. — Nicholas King, Eddy County
39. Born and raised in New Mexico, I’m aware, appreciative and protective of our unique culture. That is why I support Ben Ray Luján for U.S. Senate. He’s connected to our people, our home and is a leader at the national level fighting for New Mexicans. — Brianna Gallegos, Bernalillo County
40. Ben Ray has fought tirelessly in the House of Representatives to improve health care, protect public lands, and invest in the future of New Mexico’s children. I know he will carry that fight to the Senate and be a leader all New Mexicans can count on. — Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham
41. His integrity, respect for all, and the great leadership he has shown for New Mexico. — Julie Rodriguez, Santa Fe County
42. He’s all about New Mexico. He cares about the people, and that’s the way to be. He’s a hard worker, he’s been there a while, and he’s experienced. He will do good for our state. — State Representative Harry Garcia, Cibola County.
43. Ben Ray was a leader in bringing Renewable Energy Standards to New Mexico as a Public Regulation Commissioner and will continue to lead on this issue as our senator. — Rick Lass, Grant County
44. Ben Ray Luján has proved to be a congressman who represents New Mexicans and the interests of the state well; he understands what is important here. He will be a good senator for New Mexico. — Peggy Medina Giltrow, Santa Fe County
45. I support Congressman Ben Ray because he is always very responsive when we call or need him to help us settle issues. — Maryann Armijo, McKinley County
46. He works hard for ALL people. — Cathy Casswell, San Juan County
47. Ben Ray Luján knows New Mexico. He has always represented us in Congress with dignity and integrity. I will proudly cast my vote for him to be our senator. — Celine Rael Garcia, San Miguel County
48. I support Ben Ray Luján for U.S. Senate. Ben is very pro New Mexico and takes care of our needs. He is always very prompt to respond to requests/needs of his constituents. He will be a strong senator! — Roman Garcia, De Baca County
49. Ben Ray Luján has proved time and time again during his tenure that he is fighting for all New Mexicans to bring federal assistance to our state, especially now during the pandemic. As a U.S. senator, Ben Ray, New Mexicans will have a voice in Washington DC. — Christina Chavarria, Santa Fe County
50. I’ve seen firsthand how hard Ben Ray works to serve our communities — from advocating for good-paying opportunities for New Mexicans to expanding health care and protecting our public lands. I know he’s the right choice for New Mexico, and I’ll be proud to have him as a partner in the Senate. — Senator Martin Heinrich
51. BRL gives me hope and an excellent reason to remain in New Mexico. He will aggressively negotiate to ensure jobs, funds and address educational expansions to our state. — Dami Jents, Socorro County
52. I’m voting for Ben Ray Luján because of his passion and commitment to the state. He has the leadership, experience, and dedication to represent all New Mexicans! — Joslyn Gabaldon, Valencia County
53. I wholeheartedly support Ben Ray Luján for U.S. senator. As our next senator, I am confident that he will represent us in Washington with integrity and that he will continue to act in our best interest and in the best interest of our country. — Doris Velarde, Mora County
54. I am supporting Ben this November because we desperately need good, intelligent, kind, humane governmental leadership to steer us through this pandemic. — Dr. Ruth O’Keefe, Bernalillo County
55. He’s the best man for the job! — Monica F. Steidele, Santa Fe County
56. His roots are in New Mexico, and he knows the meaning of hard work and pitching in to help. — Suzanne Carlstedt, Sierra County
57. As a veteran it’s important to me that we have leaders who fight for us in Washington. Ben has made veterans a priority and has a proven record of success for addressing our concerns. I support Ben for Senate because I know he will continue to support me and other veterans and military families. — Sonya Morring Smith, Bernalillo County
58. In both the House and during his current campaign for Senate Ben Ray has been remarkably organized and effective. Like most Americans I am really looking for calm competence in our leaders. Ben Ray Luján has demonstrated that type of competence. — Jan Hertzsch, Doña Ana County
59. I am supporting Ben Ray Luján because he knows the diversity of our State and its people and has a grasp of how to assist us all in succeeding to be our best. — Matthew Runnels, Grant County
60. Ben Ray Luján is a proven master of his craft, making majorities when they count and when they’re possible. He has my enthusiasm because legislation is tough duty, it takes an outcome-focused team, and Ben Ray makes majorities. BRL can count on my vote. — Paul Dirdak, Santa Fe County
61. I support Representative Luján because of his work on immigration reform. Providing a common-sense path to permanent legal status for non-violent immigrants while protecting American citizens will allow members of our community to come out of the shadows, supplying them a chance to experience the American Dream like my family and I have. — Sall Ahmadian, Curry County
62. He’s got a great reputation in New Mexico. He’s impressed me when he’s been on TV or speaking in committee because his questions and responses are always thoughtful. He’s always got New Mexico at heart. — Robert Winning, Torrance County
63. Ben Ray has a record of fighting for New Mexicans and doing what’s best for our country. I trust he will be an outstanding senator and continue to represent New Mexico to uplift our communities and move us forward! — Alejandro Mendiaz-Rivera, Bernalillo County
64. Ben Ray’s commitment to justice, equality, health, well being and the environment is why I support Ben Ray. — Robert Kossman, Santa Fe County
65. Public education is the bedrock of a sound democracy. Educated citizens make decisions based on facts, on science and see themselves as part of the larger community. I know that candidate Luján supports public education from P-K to higher education and technical schools. Ben Ray is my candidate! — Penny Scribner, Doña Ana County
66. Because he is knowledgeable and experienced and basically a good human being. — Carla Kerr, Otero County
67. I heartily endorse Mr. Luján. His service as New Mexico’s representative from our district has been terrific, and I know he will continue his compassionate strong advocacy for us in the Senate. — Jean Hinlicky, Santa Fe County
68. As the Public Education Commissioner for District 9, I know the importance of electing candidates who are willing to relentlessly advocate for our children, our educators, and public education! Ben Ray Luján continues to prove his educational advocacy as proven by his plans for expanded broadband access, so our children can continue their educational endeavors while remaining safe, during these unprecedented times. — New Mexico Public Education Commissioner Trish Ruiz, Lea County
69. To put it simply, he supports common sense health reform and has supported environmentally oriented legislation, which together are the most important areas of political discourse that now face us. — Nicolas Berkopec, Bernalillo County
70. I have examined his record and feel he will best represent my values and New Mexico issues in Washington. — Susan Arnold Jesinsky, Doña Ana County
71. Ben Ray Luján is my choice because he is New Mexico. He knows our assets, and he knows our challenges. Ben Ray has been an advocate for New Mexico as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, and I have no doubt that he will do the same as a member of the Senate. — Mary Lou Cameron, Luna County
72. New Mexico is a family. Ben Ray Luján, with his family’s generations of service to our state, has our gratitude…and our vote. — Jane Schreiber, San Juan County
73. Because he is a good — hearted person like his mama. He is what we call in New Mexico “pleve”. He’s us. That’s important. He hasn’t forgotten his roots as he tries to navigate the national political world. — State Representative Christine Trujillo, Bernalillo County
74. He cares and fights for the things I believe in. — Carol J. Johnson, Santa Fe County
75. Ben Ray Luján is a born leader. He blows me away by how much he knows about the lives of everyday New Mexicans, and how to translate that into action in Washington that benefits our state and our country. — Teresa Leger Fernandez
76. Because he stands for all of the things I want and need from my government. — Betsy Bloch, Mora County
77. He looks out for the people in New Mexico on a long term basis. He cares about people and ways to support people. — Patricia Cardona
78. For as long as I have been aware of New Mexican politics, Ben Ray Luján has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of New Mexicans and ensure that my future can be as bright as possible. I am confident Ben Ray will continue championing vital issues, such as climate change and education, as the next senator from New Mexico. — Lisel Faust, Santa Fe County
79. Ben Luján — just like Tom Udall — is going do good things for all the state. — Jerry Klopfer, Chaves County
80. I’m voting for Ben Ray because I support Democrats in the U.S. Senate who are representing the citizens of New Mexico! We need to take back the Senate from Mitch McConnell and the Republicans. — John Hudson, Otero County
81. Ben Ray has the experience and feeling of trust that New Mexicans have come to appreciate throughout his career. — Bernard Toon, San Juan County
82. Building a clean energy economy is a very important mission for me, and having a leader who’s supportive of this makes me feel confident that my community and I are in good hands. — Jackie Loya, Santa Fe County
83. One time he visited my Grandparent’s tiny community in Cerro, New Mexico. I was maybe 12. I’ll never forget how important that visit was to them and to me. He actually took time to talk to everyone including me. He truly tries to know the people he represents. — Brooke Cisneros, Bernalillo County
84. Ben Ray understands New Mexico and New Mexicans. He has provided leadership and a strong voice in Congress and now we can continue that voice in the Senate. — State Senator Bill Soules, Doña Ana County
85. I am supporting Ben Ray because he understands the American values of free speech, truth and honesty, and liberty and justice for ALL, not just the privileged few. — Geni Flores, Roosevelt County
86. I’m supporting Ben Ray because he always comes back home! He never forgets us. — John Sweda, Sandoval County
87. Because he stands with immigrant communities. — Nora Miramontes, Santa Fe County
88. As a teacher and a mother, I’m voting for Ben Ray Luján because he cares about gun violence and how both mass shootings such as school shootings, and everyday gun violence affects young people. He is a gun sense candidate who supports common sense gun laws such as background checks on all gun sales to prevent dangerous people from getting guns. — Cheryl Haase, Bernalillo County
89. He has proven himself to New Mexico and Washington. He can do the job. — Toni Jaquez, San Juan County
90. I believe that Ben Ray is doing a very good job, I like his legacy. I think that he covers points that address local and national issues and that is why I am supporting him. — James Alarid, San Miguel County
91. Congressman Ben Ray Luján will fight our working families and our kids. He will ensure New Mexicans that funding and support for our children’s education is a priority! He will make sure that New Mexicans will continue to have a voice in Washington DC. — Neomi Martínez-Parra, Hidalgo County
92. Ben Ray Luján has proven that he has the citizens of New Mexico’s best interests at the front of his actions for years in the House of Representatives. He is New Mexico True! — JoAnn Anders, Sandoval County
93. I’m voting for Ben Ray in November because climate change is important to me and he has proven more than once that he cares about climate change as a whole, and how it affects New Mexico directly. — Francesca Gentile, Bernalillo County
94. He is a strong voice for the best interests of his constituents! — Cliff Rees, Santa Fe County
95. Ben Ray knows New Mexico, Ben Ray is passionate about New Mexico and Ben Ray is not going to let politics get in the way of what is good for New Mexico! — Martin Leger, San Miguel County
96. He does one fantastic job for New Mexicans! — Jeannie Pennington, Bernalillo County
97. As a Northern New Mexican, I know our National Labs are strong partners in our communities. I’m voting for Ben Ray Luján because I know he will work to expand opportunities and partnerships between our Labs, small businesses and communities that benefit our economy. — Cris Romero, Bernalillo County
98. He fights for the people of New Mexico. — Charmaine and Mike O’Rourke, Lincoln County
99. I believe that we need Ben Ray Luján as our senator because he has the experience and knowledge of our state to effectively make good decisions for all New Mexicans. — Martha Haile, Santa Fe County
100. Ben Ray will continue the hard work of reforming and strengthening our democracy, ending the reign of dark, secret money in politics, protecting our public lands, and combating climate change. I’m proud to endorse him and I know that he will be a champion for New Mexico in the Senate. — Senator Tom Udall