State Representative District 36 in New Mexico State House District 36, New Mexico

2026 Primary Election

• Nathan P Small — Incumbent State Representative in Las Cruces, NM

  Nathan P. Small is an incumbent State Representative for New Mexico's District 36, running for re-election due to his love for the community. A third-generation New Mexican from a family of teachers and ranchers, he grew up in El Cerro Mission. He served on the Las Cruces City Council, then was elected to the State Legislature in 2016. Small also works as a Field Representative with the New Mexico Wilderness Alliance. As Chair of the House Appropriations & Finance Committee, his priorities include job creation, natural resource conservation, future investments, safeguarding reproductive rights, reducing healthcare costs, public safety, and drought response. He aims to make the state budget work for families.

• Julia E Ruiz — Candidate for New Mexico House of Representatives - District 36 in Doña Ana, NM

  Julia E. Ruiz is a Republican candidate running for the New Mexico House of Representatives to represent District 36 in the primary election on June 2, 2026. A mom and long-time resident of Doña Ana, Ruiz is focused on improving New Mexico, which she notes ranks last in education. Her platform includes advocating for real educational reforms that prioritize students and families, standing with law enforcement to restore public safety and keep criminals off the streets, and fighting against reckless spending to ensure transparency and accountability for taxpayer money. She also aims to improve sick leave and business policies to support both employees and small businesses. Ruiz has previously campaigned for School Board Member in 2023 and 2025. Her campaign for State Representative in 2026 has raised over $5,000 in contributions.