Democratic Rep. Raymundo "Ray" Lara won an unopposed fifth term representing southern Doña Ana County's House District 34 on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Lara received 5,366 votes in unofficial returns, according to Organ Mountain News. All 20 precincts were marked as partially reporting when results were reviewed, and all results remain unofficial until canvassing and certification are completed, the Las Cruces Bulletin reported.
District 34 includes San Miguel, La Mesa, Chamberino, La Union, Santa Teresa and Sunland Park. Road conditions, water infrastructure and development pressures present continuing challenges across those communities, according to Organ Mountain News.
In a written response on Wednesday, Nov. 4, to questions from Organ Mountain News, Lara said the issues facing his constituents have changed little, particularly when it comes to public infrastructure.
"We continue to have communities dealing with inadequate roads, drainage problems, flooding, and aging water and wastewater systems," Lara said. "These aren't new issues, and they aren't going to resolve themselves."
Flooding and infrastructure
Lara identified flooding as a serious concern, citing danger to homes, property and roads where drainage and flood-control infrastructure are inadequate, Organ Mountain News reported.
The issue has had recent consequences in the region. In October, the Camino Real Regional Utility Authority (CRRUA) reported that Rio Grande overflow following heavy rainfall was affecting part of its wastewater collection system. The affected area ran along McNutt Road, from Sunland Park Drive south to the wastewater treatment facility near the Racetrack Drive intersection.
Lara said he intends to continue pursuing infrastructure funding while monitoring how agencies carry out the resulting projects.
Education and healthcare
Lara, who has served in the House since 2019, chairs the House Democratic caucus. He also serves as vice chair of the House Transportation, Public Works and Capital Improvements Committee and sits on the House Education Committee.
During the 2026 session, Lara co-sponsored House Bill 47, which passed both chambers unanimously and was signed into law March 9. The measure requires public school districts and charter schools to cover at least 80% of employees' group health insurance costs. The law also required a study of public school employee insurance sustainability, with recommendations intended for the 2027 session.
Beyond education, Lara said he wants to improve access to medical care in southern Doña Ana County.
"We need to do more to attract and retain healthcare professionals and improve access to services closer to home," he said.
Economic development
Lara also addressed economic development along the southern border, emphasizing the importance of involving residents in decisions affecting their communities, according to Organ Mountain News.
"Growth should benefit the communities where it takes place, and residents deserve to have a voice in decisions that affect them," he said.
Lara emphasized that constituent service extends beyond legislation.
"Not everything requires legislation," he said. "Sometimes it's about bringing the right people together, asking difficult questions, and making sure government agencies are doing what they're supposed to do."
The 60-day New Mexico legislative session begins Jan. 19, 2027.
