Printer-friendlyAbout Us
New Mexico First is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that brings together people from all walks of life to identify practical solutions to the state’s toughest problems. In the organization’s 23-year history, it has engaged over 6,000 people in the democratic process through deliberation.
Co-founded in 1986 by U.S. Senators Pete Domenici (R-NM) and Jeff Bingaman (D-NM), the organization extends the title of “honorary co-chair” to New Mexico’s current U.S. Senators. The organization benefits from a large, bi-partisan board of directors.
Our Founders and Honorary Co-chairs
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U.S. Senator Pete Domenici, Founder |
U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman, Founder & Honorary Co-chair |
U.S. Senator Tom Udall, Honorary Co-chair |
New Mexico First conducts three major types of activities: an annual statewide town hall focusing on a critical issue facing the state; specialized forums for communities and other institutions that need consensus feedback; and smaller consensus facilitations such as strategic planning sessions. Through New Mexico First’s town halls, citizens have developed recommendations on water, energy, economic development, education reform, leadership, youth development, entrepreneurship, and other topics.
New Mexico First is funded by foundation grants, membership dues, corporate and private contributions, and contracts.