Jessica Velasquez (born 1976 or 1977), is an American politician serving as the chair of the Democratic Party of New Mexico.

Jessica Velasquez
Chair of the New Mexico Democratic Party
Assumed office
April 24, 2021
Preceded byMarg Elliston
Personal details
Born1976 or 1977 (age 47–48)
Political partyDemocratic
SpouseAaron
Children3
EducationPennsylvania State University (BA)
University of New Mexico (MA)

Early life

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Velasquez grew up in a “tiny farm community north of Pittsburgh on what was left of the family farm.” She earned a bachelor's degree from Pennsylvania State University and left Pennsylvania in 1999 to teach in New Mexico.

Career

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Velasquez ran in the 2018 New Mexico House of Representatives election, but lost to incumbent Republican Gregg Schmedes. She ran again in the 2020 New Mexico House of Representatives election, but lost to Stefani Lord. She has also served in Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's Interim Education Committee.[1] She has retired from teaching and now runs an electroplating business with her husband Aaron.[2]

References

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  1. ^ dchacon@sfnewmexican.com, Daniel J. Chacón (2021-04-27). "Democratic Party of New Mexico elects new chairwoman". Santa Fe New Mexican. Retrieved 2024-04-16.
  2. ^ "Small-business owner Velasquez picked to lead NM Democrats". Yahoo News. 2021-04-28. Retrieved 2024-04-16.
Party political offices
Preceded by Chair of the New Mexico Democratic Party
2021–present
Incumbent