Otero County’s Amy Barela Takes Helm as New Mexico Republican Party Chair

Otero County, New Mexico, has once again solidified its influence within the state Republican Party with the election of County Commissioner Amy Barela as the new state party chairwoman. The announcement was made at the party’s convention in Truth or Consequences on Saturday.

With Steve Pearce stepping down and opting not to seek re-election, Amy Barela’s election was seen as a strong possibility within the New Mexico Republican establishment. Barela, who has been active within the Otero County Republican Party for years, has steadily worked her way up through the ranks, building influence and preparing for this significant leadership role.

Barela’s rise has been nothing short of impressive. Her political journey began in 2015 when she was unexpectedly nominated for Otero County Chair after Rocky Galacinni, the incumbent chair, chose not to run for re-election. Despite not winning the initial race, Barela’s perseverance shone through. She continued to work hard for the party, and eventually, she became chairwoman after the removal of her predecessor, Trish Wilson, by the County Central Committee (CCC).

Her political skill and determination became even more evident when she ran for the District 2 County Commission seat. Despite expectations that she would be easily defeated by the well-known GB Oliver, the Executive Director of the Alamogordo Center of Commerce, Barela’s relentless campaigning and personal connections to voters led her to victory. She knocked on hundreds of doors and encouraged voters to turn out, demonstrating her tenacity and commitment to her community.

Now, Amy Barela has proven once again that she is a formidable political force. At the state GOP convention, she was elected state chair with an overwhelming mandate, receiving nearly three times as many votes (157 to 58) as her closest challenger, John Brenna, the current Valencia County GOP chair. Other candidates in the race included Robert Kwasny, Mark Murton, and Mick Rich, with State Sen. Joshua Sanchez withdrawing his candidacy before the election.

Barela’s platform for the party emphasizes change, unity, and the protection of New Mexicans’ constitutional rights. She stated, “Now, more than ever, we must fight for New Mexicans—defending their constitutional rights, supporting our legislators in their efforts to combat out-of-control crime, and ensuring that law enforcement has the support they need.” She also highlighted key issues such as education, rising prices, and healthcare, calling for a shift in the state’s political direction.

Barela, who was elected to the Otero County Commission in 2022, will lead the state GOP with strong ties to Trump country in southern New Mexico. Her leadership represents a continuation of Otero County’s significant influence within the party.

Looking ahead, Barela plans to introduce structural changes within the state GOP, focusing on transparency and active participation from party members. She also aims to increase the party’s visibility and build unity among Republicans across New Mexico.

Stay tuned for an upcoming in-depth interview with Amy Barela on AlamogordoTownNews.org’s radio edition, where she will share more about her vision for the state party. Congratulations to Amy Barela on this significant achievement!

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