Our community in Northwest New Mexico has a strong and proud history of resiliency. Yet this resiliency has its limits; we have suffered too many years of stagnant economic growth where hard-working families are unable to make ends meet even when working two or three jobs. Because of this, our youth have been leaving New Mexico in great numbers in search of opportunity elsewhere, and one would think that our elected Republican leaders in Santa Fe would make great haste in addressing the loss of our young, bright, and talented people. Instead, they have chosen to use their time and energy to bring opportunity and more wealth only to those who hold no lasting interest in the vitality of our community.
My name is GloJean Todacheene, and I am a Democrat running for the New Mexico House of Representatives in District 4, because I want to represent the needs of our people instead of the needs of the wealthy and large corporations. Having lived in the community of Shiprock for more than 50 years, I have been an active member of the Navajo community, having served as a council delegate to the Navajo Nation, and two-terms as a San Juan county commissioner.
I believe in an economy centered on supporting hard-working individuals and local businesses. Small shops, local farms, and our legacy of ranching are the backbone of our economy and need support from our state government to ensure they have what they need to thrive. An important step to creating a robust economy that works for the people is raising the minimum wage so families are able to provide for their loved ones, rather than worrying about having enough money at the end of the month. Providing working families a tax credit is a proven method of ensuring that hard-earned money stays within our local economy, as families have more money to buy the goods and services they deserve. I intend to enact all of these if I am elected to represent you.
Having been an educator for 26 years in Shiprock, I know that we need to do what is right for our children by investing in their potential; Noosélí naasgo ba naashnishdóó. I want to work for the future of the next generation. We have to improve our school systems. We must stop over-testing of our students and sending millions dollars to out-of-state testing companies, as we have seen under Republican leadership. Let us focus on class time, more classroom resources, and hiring more better-qualified teachers.
In this election, the most important thing is for the voters to have their voices heard, and I hope to hear many voices, not just at the polls, but also at campaign events, in the newspapers, and even on social media. I welcome everyone to attend my rallies and ask me any questions they have. My campaign is about you and our community, because together we have a powerful voice for a better tomorrow.
If you have questions or want to get involved, please contact me at (505) 258-1896 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
By GloJean Todacheene
GloJean Todacheene is a Democrat from Shiprock who is running against incumbent Sharon Clahchischilliage from Kirtland in the general election. The two will face off Nov. 8 for the District $ House of Representatives seat.
