Heinrich delivered for wildfire victims
As a county commissioner of San Miguel County, I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastation wildfires can inflict on our communities. The Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire left deep scars, affecting families, livelihoods and the very landscape we hold dear. In the aftermath of the fire, we needed strong leadership and tangible results. Sen. Martin Heinrich delivered.
Because of Heinrich’s advocacy, the federal government issued a disaster declaration that mobilized aid to people harmed by the fire. He then helped secure the passage of the Hermits Peak Fire Assistance Act to establish the compensation program for victims of the fires. Even while the fires were still burning, Heinrich was on the ground lending a hand to our neighbors who had been displaced by the fires. He’s shown time and time again he’s someone we can count on.
Heinrich also played a pivotal role in securing federal funding for post-fire recovery efforts in our region. Through his advocacy, we received critical support for watershed restoration, reforestation initiatives and assistance programs to aid families and businesses affected by the fires. He has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to addressing the needs of our fire-affected communities. He understands the complexities of federal bureaucracy, from navigating FEMA and getting recovery funds, to working with relevant agencies on wildfire management to avoid a crisis like this from happening again.
His leadership extends beyond immediate disaster response. He has been a steadfast advocate for policies that promote forest health and resilience. And his support for initiatives to rehabilitate our nation’s forests and grasslands underscores his proactive approach to mitigating future wildfire risks. Sen. Heinrich secured millions of dollars for renovations at Kirtland Air Force Base that enables Very Large Air Tankers to be based in Albuquerque so future fires can be fought from the air and contained more quickly. He also passed the FIRE Act, which will modernize FEMA’s response to wildfires to be better prepared.
Moreover, Sen. Heinrich has been a strong voice for climate action and environmental stewardship. He understands that addressing the root causes of wildfires requires a comprehensive strategy that tackles climate change and promotes sustainable land management practices. His leadership on clean energy policies and conservation efforts reflects a commitment to safeguarding our natural heritage for future generations.
In contrast, Heinrich’s opponent for the Senate in 2024, Republican Nella Domenici, lacks the experience and track record necessary to effectively address the challenges posed by wildfires. Domenici’s unfamiliarity with these issues reflects a broader pattern of being out of touch with the needs of our constituents. In times of crisis, we cannot afford to elect someone who is untested and unproven in matters as pressing as wildfire recovery. We have all felt the effects of a changing climate not just locally but globally. We cannot leave our future in the hands of someone who may or may not acknowledge that we are in a crisis and nobody knows this more than communities who have been affected by it.
As we look to the future, we must support leaders like Martin Heinrich, who have a proven track record of delivering for New Mexicans. His legislative achievements have made a tangible difference in our ability to recover and rebuild. I urge my fellow New Mexicans to stand with Sen. Heinrich, a proven leader who will continue to fight for our interests in Washington. Together, we can ensure a brighter and more resilient future for Northern New Mexico and our entire state.