Finding Hope

Ben Ray Luján
2 min readJun 3, 2020

Yesterday, New Mexico held a primary election that was unlike anything we’ve seen before.

Instead of holding joyful election night rallies, we mourned those we have lost.

Instead of looking to our president to bring Americans together, we gasped at the cruelty of attacks on peaceful protestors for an empty photo-op.

This is a trying and turbulent time for our communities. But still, I hold out hope.

On Monday, George Floyd’s brother visited the street corner where Floyd was killed. He urged Americans to “stop thinking that our voice don’t matter — and vote. Don’t wait for somebody else to tell you who’s who. Educate yourself and know who you’re voting for.”

During this primary, 201,000 New Mexicans returned absentee ballots — more than any previous primary. Even in the most challenging of times, our commitment to democracy remains strong, and I know that in November, a change will come.

I got into this race because I believe the Senate should amplify the values, hopes, and dreams of the American people. The laws the Senate passes should reflect the idea that everyone has a right to high-quality, affordable health care. That everyone deserves a good job with fair working conditions and living wages. That no one should die of COVID-19 because they lacked running water, or a nearby hospital, or the internet access to learn how to keep themselves safe.

Under the status quo in Washington, our government has fought too often for the privileged and the few. I’m running to change that, but I’ll need you by my side.

I’m deeply honored that last night, New Mexicans voted to make me their Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate. This victory was only possible because of thousands of people like you — but our fight is only beginning.

In November’s election, New Mexico will play a pivotal role in determining whether we can change the structures of power in Washington and make our government look like the people.

We’re up against fierce opposition — and we’ll need a group of volunteers that is bigger than anything New Mexico has ever seen. Click here to join our volunteer team — and let’s make change and build a brighter future for New Mexico together.

Thank you,

Ben Ray Luján

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Ben Ray Luján

Proud son of New Mexico and candidate for U.S. Senate.