Las Cruces community advocate enters Democratic primary race for District 1 seat

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - Daisy A. Maldonado has announced her candidacy for the Doña Ana County Commission’s District 1 seat, criticizing the county’s approval of financing tied to the proposed development.

Maldonado, who has lived in Las Cruces since 2003, said she decided to run after the County Commission approved financing associated with the large-scale data center proposal, which has drawn criticism from some residents over potential environmental impacts and public costs.

“District 1 deserves leadership that prioritizes people over corporate interests,” Maldonado said in a statement announcing her campaign. “The Commission’s decision to approve financing for Project Jupiter made it clear that community voices are not being meaningfully included in decisions that directly affect their health, environment and economic future.”

A graduate of New Mexico State University, Maldonado describes herself as a working mother and community organizer with ties to colonia communities and working-class families across District 1.

Her campaign said it plans to focus on environmental justice, ethical governance, public health protections and greater community participation in economic development decisions.

“Economic growth must not come at the expense of our air, our water or our most vulnerable neighborhoods,” Maldonado said. “We need transparent decision-making, rigorous oversight and leadership that understands the lived realities of colonia residents and working families.”

Maldonado said her campaign will emphasize grassroots fundraising and local support rather than corporate political action committees.

District 1 is considered heavily Democratic. The Democratic primary election is scheduled for June 2, 2026.

“I believe our county government should reflect the values of dignity, fairness and accountability,” Maldonado said. “I am stepping forward to restore ethical leadership and ensure District 1 has a representative who listens before voting.”