Michelle Paulene Abeyta is the HD-69 representative and Indigenous rights advocate. She won the June 2, 2026 primary 68–32% over Harry Garcia and is effectively elected — there is no Republican opponent in the general election. Congratulations, Rep. Abeyta!
Donate » Volunteer » Campaign website »Michelle Paulene Abeyta holds a Juris Doctor degree with a certificate in Indigenous Peoples Law & Policy from the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law. Her public service includes the National Native American Bar Association Board. In 2024, she defeated primary challenger Harry Garcia 56.8% to 34.9%.
Emily's List nominated Michelle for their Gabrielle Giffords Rising Star Award. PolitiScore notes she "is using her seat to drive practical, often bipartisan fixes for the specific problems her communities face…. Her main goal is to make life more stable and healthier for families in some of the poorest, most rural parts of New Mexico." She has backed laws that ban surprise facility fees on routine medical visits, make it easier for out-of-state providers to serve New Mexicans, and expand student loan help for providers who work in rural areas. She also pushed early reading and math reforms for kids in small schools.
The Race
HD-69 covers Bernalillo, McKinley, Valencia, San Juan, Socorro, and Cibola Counties. Michelle won the June 2, 2026 primary 68% to 32% over Harry Garcia — the same former incumbent she defeated 56.8% to 34.9% in 2024. Garcia had attempted a rematch, despite his residency issues from after that cycle. With no Republican opponent in the general election, Michelle is effectively elected.
The first new school in 90 years for To'Hajiilee is moving forward — thanks to Rep. Abeyta and many others who fought for this community for years.
Latest Updates
- Michelle won the June 2 primary 68% to 32% over former incumbent Harry Garcia — and is effectively elected: she has no Republican opponent in the general election. Congratulations, Rep. Abeyta! (D primary: Abeyta 68%, 1,969 — Garcia 32%, 938)
Endorsements & Support
- Campaign website
- Emily's List — Gabrielle Giffords Rising Star nominee
- Animal Protection Voters — endorsed Michelle
- Rio Grande Chapter of the Sierra Club — endorsed Michelle
- Source New Mexico profiles Michelle and her opponent Henry Garcia
- PolitiScore first-term analysis
- ICT News — Indigenous women leaders profile
- CPAC — Legislative achievements in healthcare access