As a child, Manny’s family instilled in him a profound understanding of New Mexico’s rich culture and deep Democratic values. As a young LGBTQ+ person of color, his goal is to help lead DPNM’s outreach efforts to voters who feel they are not being listened to, get them involved in the process, and engaged with the Democratic Party and our candidates. Manny previously served as Vice Chair of the Democratic Party of Bernalillo County. He has also volunteered for dozens of Democratic campaigns and candidates across New Mexico, including local races in his hometown of Las Vegas, NM, in Las Cruces, and in Bernalillo County. Manny volunteered extensively on former President Obama’s “Campaign for Change”, Democratic efforts in 2016, and for President Biden’s 2020 campaign. He has planned voter drives, town halls, forums, and created numerous opportunities for New Mexicans to get involved in the Democratic Party.

Manny was also elected in June 2021 as Vice Chair of the Western Region for the Associated State Democratic Committees—an organization within the Democratic National Committee. He speaks and writes in Spanish fluently and enjoys connecting with people from all walks of life. His passion has always been helping those who need it most and being a voice for the underserved. Manny’s main priority as Vice Chair is to re-elect Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to a second term. He believes that in order to re-elect Governor Lujan Grisham and Democrats up and down the ballot, our party must emphasize registration of first time, young, and minority voters in our voter outreach efforts.

As we move forward in our important work, Manny believes our focus must be to build an organizing team focused on outreach to people of color and our rural communities—the backbone of America. He pledges to be an open and inclusive voice who is reflective of our state and the western region of our country. Manny is committed to being an open and inclusive leader and making sure everyone’s voice is heard in the Democratic Party.

Manny lives in Albuquerque, was born in Santa Fe, and was raised in Northern New Mexico. He currently works as a health advocate and case manager for developmentally disabled people. He is also a mental health professional. Manny currently volunteers as the Vice Chair of the Community Supports Subcommittee of the Bernalillo County Behavioral Health Initiative. In his free time, Manny loves spending time outdoors, gardening, painting, singing, playing music, and hot air ballooning. Manny is a Launch Director (Zebra) at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and other hot air ballooning events. Manny received his undergraduate and graduate education from New Mexico State University in Las Cruces.