Teacher running for District 7 seat

Jeff Carr of Eagle Nest is the District 7 Democratic candidate for state senator.

The seat currently is held by Clint Harden, R-Clovis, who is seeking re-election.

District 7 includes Curry, Colfax, Harding, Quay, San Miguel, Taos and Union counties.

Carr teaches U.S. history and economics at Taos High School. He resigned as municipal judge in Eagle Nest in order to run for the state Senate seat.

Here’s his take on state issues:

Water: “Ever since human beings set foot on this part of the planet, water’s been an issue.” Water needs to be looked at “from all aspects” including conservation and industry. “We need to be very careful we don’t pollute the water we have. We’re going to have to pull out all the stops. Water is a life and death type thing in New Mexico.”

Healthcare: “Healthcare is an extremely important issue. We’re going to need to do something. … If we can’t afford it on a state level, we’ll have to seek federal assistance.”

Education: “The problem is with ‘No Child Left Behind.’ The idea that our schools are failing is a myth. They need help; they could improve.” The schools also face problems with crumbling buildings. It’s important to maintain salaries and provide good working conditions. Leadership is another factor. “We need good principals and superintendents to lead in the direction in which we exceed expectations rather than just meeting them.”

Economy: “We’re a poor state. We are hurting. People are losing homes. I think it’s going to get worse before it gets better.” We need to recruit businesses that pay decent wages with benefits. “There’s things we can do if we become creative that will help us survive and thrive. … We need to look at our strengths and build on those. There’s a lot of positive things we don’t want to destroy.”

Energy: N.M. currently is an energy exporter of oil and gas. The state could be energy independent and export wind and solar power.
Campaign slogan: “Your voice will be heard in Santa Fe. I’ll represent all seven counties of this district.”

The election is Nov. 4.