Public Regulation Commission, District 2
Jerry Partin, Republican
District 2 covers a sprawling area, encompassing nearly the entire eastern half of the state, including Las Vegas, Santa Rosa, Tucumcari, Clovis, Portales, Roswell, Artesia, Hobbs and Carlsbad. The position is currently held by Patrick Lyons, who isn’t seeking re-election and is running for land commissioner. Two Republicans are running in the Republican primary, and the winner will face Democrat Kevin Sanders in the November general election.
In the contested Republican primary, Portales resident Jerry Partin is the strongest choice. He retired following a 42-year career with electric cooperatives, including 31 years as general manager with two different co-ops. He notes he has dealt with the PRC for most of his career, having participated in PRC policy task forces, rule making and cases. Given the complex and wide variety of issues the PRC handles, it’s unlikely that anyone but an incumbent could hit the ground running after being elected, but Partin’s background will make for a less steep learning curve. He also recognizes that the job of the PRC is balancing everyone’s needs while ensuring system reliability.
The Journal endorses Jerry Partin for PRC, District 2, in the Republican primary.