About Our Committee
Our Mission
“Meet Ken Miyagishima. Ken is the former four-time widely respected mayor of Las Cruces, and he’s an extremely successful small businessman who creates real jobs for real New Mexicans every day.
Ken is warm, funny and engaging. He’s got a fun family, lots of friends, and an exciting political brand that embraces the Gen Zs and up and coming voters. Ken’s social media is always popping, it’s engaging, uplifting content all the time, and he’s a guy we all feel pretty good about.
We love Deb Haaland don’t get us wrong, we hope for huge things for her, but she’s not the right person for this moment, in this place.
Sure, Deb’s native and female and that is absolutely historic no doubt and of course we wish her nothing but the best!
But New Mexico needs a leader with an executive record, someone who can appreciate the entire community and who frankly is focused on real issues like jobs that matter to all the people.
It’s about jobs. In the end, when the smoke clears, what matters is who here has a record of creating jobs and economic growth.
Ken is also a great person who is competent, someone you KNOW, LIKE and TRUST, and in the end, Ken is the guy we want as our Governor!
Ways to Help
Who is Ken Miyagishima?
Affordable Rent and Housing; State to Sell New Homes @ ZERO Down and $1500 per month
Reduce Crime and Drug Use
Kenneth Daniel Gallegos Miyagishima was born in 1963 in Biloxi, Mississippi, and has been a resident of Las Cruces since 1971. He attended local public schools before graduating from New Mexico State University with a BBA, specializing in Finance and Real Estate. He later received an MBA from the University of Texas at El Paso.
In 19
Kenneth Daniel Gallegos Miyagishima was born in 1963 in Biloxi, Mississippi, and has been a resident of Las Cruces since 1971. He attended local public schools before graduating from New Mexico State University with a BBA, specializing in Finance and Real Estate. He later received an MBA from the University of Texas at El Paso.
In 1992, Miyagishima made history by being elected to the Doña Ana County Commission, becoming the first Mexican-American of Japanese descent to serve in public office in New Mexico. He was re-elected in 1996 and served as commission chairman twice during his tenure.1
In 2001, he successfully ran for a position on the Las Cruces City Council and secured re-election in 2005. His political journey continued when he was elected mayor of Las Cruces in 2007, a role he held for four consecutive four-year terms, making him the longest-serving mayor in the city's history since 1907.
Ken is also an Adjunct Personal Finance Professor at NMSU and a 30+ yr. Businessman
Ken is a member of several organizations, including:
* Latino Leaders Network
* National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO)
* Hispanic Chambers of Commerce in Albuquerque & Las Cruces
* Life Member-National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
* Black Chamber of Commerce in Albuquerque
* Japanese American Citizens League (JACL)
* National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) – Associate member
* Financial Planning Association (FPA)
* Financial Management Association International (FMA)
* National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA)
NOTE: The State Seal may not be used for campaign purposes, which is why it is covered over.
Reduce Crime and Drug Use
Affordable Rent and Housing; State to Sell New Homes @ ZERO Down and $1500 per month
Reduce Crime and Drug Use
Police, Firefighters, Correctional Officers - If a crime is committed resulting in the death of one of these officers, I believe the perpetrator should serve a mandatory life sentence at the SUPERMAX facility in Colorado. The state will pay the federal government to house them.
Establish a New Unit (NM Metro Police). This new department wi
Police, Firefighters, Correctional Officers - If a crime is committed resulting in the death of one of these officers, I believe the perpetrator should serve a mandatory life sentence at the SUPERMAX facility in Colorado. The state will pay the federal government to house them.
Establish a New Unit (NM Metro Police). This new department will have its own chief and command structure to assist larger cities with local policing. The aim is not to replace local police but to enhance their capacity to combat crime by increasing the number of officers and available equipment. We will utilize former and retired officers in the cities where they reside.
Recruitment through Housing Incentives. The housing incentives mentioned in Affordable Housing section will aid in attracting lateral transfers from police departments outside of New Mexico. This plan involves selling houses at cost, with a monthly payment of $1,500 and no down payment required. All accredited local law enforcement agencies in all New Mexico incorporated cities, and all 33 counties would be eligible.
Collaboration with Local Sheriffs. We will partner with local sheriffs in Hidalgo, Grant, Luna, and Doña Ana Counties to secure our borders and reduce drugs from entering our communities. This effort will also focus on northern counties such as San Juan, Rio Arriba, Taos, Colfax, and Union County.
Pursue a reduction to 15 years for full retirement eligibility for our police officers, firefighters, and correctional officers.
Affordable Rent and Housing; State to Sell New Homes @ ZERO Down and $1500 per month
Affordable Rent and Housing; State to Sell New Homes @ ZERO Down and $1500 per month
Affordable Rent and Housing; State to Sell New Homes @ ZERO Down and $1500 per month
Phase 1 – The plan involves selling houses at cost, with a monthly payment of $1,500 and no down payment required. This proposal is not about providing free housing, but rather about making these homes accessible at cost. The 7% interest rate reflects the return the state investment council seeks to achieve through its investments. This a
Phase 1 – The plan involves selling houses at cost, with a monthly payment of $1,500 and no down payment required. This proposal is not about providing free housing, but rather about making these homes accessible at cost. The 7% interest rate reflects the return the state investment council seeks to achieve through its investments. This approach offers another avenue for the state to support residents who can handle reasonable housing payments, allowing them to become homeowners with zero down payment and affordable monthly obligations.
The State will collaborate with licensed contractors and realtors across New Mexico. Phase 1 applicants will encompass all police, fire, and correctional officers, as well as teachers and eligible Native Americans. Phase 2 applicants will be selected based on various statewide discussions and the results of Phase 1 applicants.
As the housing market expands, the availability of rental property increases,
leading to a decrease in rental costs.
Ways to Help
Homelessness
Rebuild our Public Education System
Rebuild our Public Education System
One major challenge facing many cities and residents is homelessness. The state must take the lead in this area by providing the financial resources and expertise necessary to address the issue effectively. Our cities and counties often lack the discretionary funds needed to create facilities with the essential amenities to support indi
One major challenge facing many cities and residents is homelessness. The state must take the lead in this area by providing the financial resources and expertise necessary to address the issue effectively. Our cities and counties often lack the discretionary funds needed to create facilities with the essential amenities to support individuals in these difficult circumstances. In reviewing the state’s $10 billion operating budget, I identified an opportunity for a potential 10% savings through service streamlining and one-time investments, all while maintaining essential services with no layoffs or job reductions. This 10%, amounting to $1 billion, could be redirected toward enhancing services and addressing challenges such as homelessness, crime reduction, and mental health.
Consider an individual living in a motel as their primary residence. Renting on a weekly or monthly basis typically costs around $250 per week or $1,000 per month. Imagine if the state could build and sell them a housing unit for $150,000. With a ZERO down payment ($0), a 30-year mortgage at a 7% interest rate, the monthly payment would be roughly equivalent to their current motel costs. This strategy would offer two key advantages: First, it would provide ownership and the potential for equity appreciation; Second, it would create a dignified living environment with necessary amenities for their families.
I’d like to clarify a few points: First, my proposal is not about giving away housing, but rather about selling these units at cost. Second, the 7% figure refers to the return that the state investment council aims to achieve through its investments. This demonstrates another method for the state to assist residents who can manage modest housing payments, enabling them to own their own home for a monthly cost comparable to that of a motel room. Consider the potential for construction jobs, real estate opportunities, and more that this initiative could create across the state! I believe this represents a valuable investment in the people of New Mexico, utilizing tax dollars contributed by New Mexico residents.
I would like to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to the director of the Mesilla Valley Community of Hope. During their visits to Las Cruces, various H.U.D. Regional administrators often noted that the Community of Hope should be considered a model for the entire state, and I completely concur. This community area is situated on city-owned property, includes a health care clinic, food pantry, soup kitchen, and a child-care center. Furthermore, it offers the Mano y Mano Day Labor program, which connects homeless and near-homeless adults with daily job placement opportunities, alongside a case management system designed to assist residents in achieving permanent housing as their ultimate objective.
The state might explore the idea of "trading" land in different cities and counties across New Mexico, especially in larger urban areas, to create community living spaces and support housing solutions statewide. This initiative could be a significant step toward ensuring that the homeless and near-homeless do not have to reside in parks and parking lots in our cities. Instead, they could find refuge in a compassionate community that is safe, clean, and supportive of their circumstances, much like the Community of Hope.
In conclusion, while providing housing for our homeless population is an essential first step, it is equally important to ensure that 24-hour mental health and social services are accessible nearby. This support is crucial for helping individuals reintegrate into society with responsibility and dignity.
Rebuild our Public Education System
Rebuild our Public Education System
Rebuild our Public Education System
Expand Vocational Education Programs
In New Mexico, 45% of high school graduates do not pursue college. To address this, we should strengthen vocational education programs that focus on vital fields such as automotive repair, electrical work, plumbing, welding, and carpentry, among others.
Improve High School Graduation Rates and Overall,
Expand Vocational Education Programs
In New Mexico, 45% of high school graduates do not pursue college. To address this, we should strengthen vocational education programs that focus on vital fields such as automotive repair, electrical work, plumbing, welding, and carpentry, among others.
Improve High School Graduation Rates and Overall, School Participation
During my tenure as mayor of Las Cruces, I initiated a program focused on promoting high school graduation and healthy eating. Prior to the COVID-19 shutdown, Las Cruces boasted the highest graduation rate in the state. I plan to collaborate with various mayors across New Mexico to implement this successful program.
Increase Educator Pay and Expand Community Schools
The housing incentives mentioned in the Affordable Section will allow us to
help attract qualified educators from outside New Mexico. This initiative involves selling homes at cost, requiring only a monthly payment of $1,500 with no down payment and a minimum teaching commitment in the state.
When implemented effectively, community schools can significantly enhance student performance, attendance, and graduation rates.
Free college tuition (Graduate Degree) for New Mexico Teachers
To attract and retain qualified teachers, we propose offering free college tuition up to the Master's level, provided that teachers commit to teaching in New Mexico for a minimum of 10 years. Additionally, I aim to reduce the number of years required for their full retirement.
Acknowledge the Distinction Between Rural and Urban School Districts
We must recognize that rural school districts have unique needs. Allow them the flexibility to determine the best scheduling for their students, provided they adhere to the minimum curriculum requirements.
Water Resources
Rebuild our Public Education System
Water Resources
Water is the new GOLD
New Mexico has approximately 300 square miles of surface water. In contrast, there are around 90,000 square miles of underground water, although it is extremely hot and highly saline.
I believe I have developed a concept that will become a self-sustaining method for providing New Mexicans with all the water they need
Water is the new GOLD
New Mexico has approximately 300 square miles of surface water. In contrast, there are around 90,000 square miles of underground water, although it is extremely hot and highly saline.
I believe I have developed a concept that will become a self-sustaining method for providing New Mexicans with all the water they need for centuries to come.
Additionally, I propose that various counties or cities serve as the fiscal agents for this water. My plan includes a revenue distribution of 40% to the state, 20% to the fiscal county, and an equal split of 20% each to the incorporated cities and the 26 federally recognized Native American tribes in New Mexico.
Ways to Help
Economic Development
Economic Development
Economic Development
What opportunities are available to lower-income children for a brighter future? Recent research indicates that when parents have stable employment, their children tend to experience greater economic success as adults.2
I've noticed various initiatives aimed at drawing businesses to New Mexico. Unfortunately, while some of these busines
What opportunities are available to lower-income children for a brighter future? Recent research indicates that when parents have stable employment, their children tend to experience greater economic success as adults.2
I've noticed various initiatives aimed at drawing businesses to New Mexico. Unfortunately, while some of these businesses take advantage of the incentives offered, many deplete them and subsequently close their operations to relocate elsewhere.
In the business realm, there's a well-known saying: "If you're not growing, you're dying." While New Mexico's population has increased, that growth has been a sluggish 2.8% over the past 10 years.
To rise above the challenges of education, poverty, drug use, crime, and homelessness, we must transform our approach to attracting businesses and supporting local, homegrown enterprises—often referred to as economic gardening.
First, we need to revamp our procurement codes and revisit our Anti-Donation clause. We currently have several billion dollars in our permanent trust fund. I am not suggesting that we spend this money but rather invest it back into our communities while aiming for a comparable rate of return on our investment. The state is currently receiving a return of just over 7%.
For our smaller cities facing declining population growth, to jumpstart their economy. I propose a plan that mirrors a venture capitalist model. This approach involves collaborating with local businesses through a joint public-private partnership. By offering a variety of county and state business contracts, we can help these businesses generate substantial revenues, which will enable them to hire local employees at wages 20-30% above the minimum wage, thanks to increased profits. Ultimately, our goal is to create well-managed businesses that can be transferred to their employees, who would then "repay" the state for the initial funds used to establish the partnership, potentially through long-term loans.
For our medium-sized cities facing stagnant population growth, I previously outlined a strategy to provide housing options with zero down payment and a monthly payment of $1,500. This initiative would require the state to form limited partnerships with local contractors in areas such as plumbing, electrical work, roofing, framing, and concrete. During the construction phase, these contractors would take on the role of general managers, overseeing the building of single-family homes, duplexes, and triplexes. They would hire residents from these cities as employees, offering them ownership stakes when applicable. Similar to the smaller cities, these partners would also "repay" the state for the funds used to initiate the partnership through long-term loans.
Most of the population growth is occurring in our larger cities. I want to express my full support for our military and veterans. New Mexico is home to four military installations: White Sands Missile Range, Cannon AFB, Holloman AFB, and Kirtland AFB. Additionally, there are two of the nation's top scientific laboratories: Los Alamos and Sandia Laboratories.
Enhanced Use Leases with the U.S. Military offers several benefits:
· They unlock the potential value of underutilized properties.
· They reduce operation and maintenance costs.
· They attract tenants that align with the missions of the installations.
· They provide cash or in-kind funding for essential and unfunded projects.
· They stimulate the local economy.
· They foster improved community relations.3
These initiatives will contribute to retaining our college graduates and keeping them in the state.
Medicaid
Economic Development
Economic Development
The state allocates nearly $1 billion for Medicaid. With the potential cuts proposed by the Federal Government, we must prepare for the possibility of these subsidies being reduced or eliminated.
I have examined various expenditures within the state budget and identified opportunities to significantly cut costs through one-time investmen
The state allocates nearly $1 billion for Medicaid. With the potential cuts proposed by the Federal Government, we must prepare for the possibility of these subsidies being reduced or eliminated.
I have examined various expenditures within the state budget and identified opportunities to significantly cut costs through one-time investments in different types of machinery. Additionally, thanks to advancements in technology, 60-70% of surgeries can now be conducted at Ambulatory Surgical Centers instead of costly hospitals.
I also propose enhancing Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) by making one-time investments in equipment, enabling patients to receive their tests in-house rather than at external facilities, which can drive up costs.
Reproductive Rights
Economic Development
Reproductive Rights
I firmly believe that the government should not interfere in a woman's decisions regarding her body. Such discussions should be between the woman and her doctor. I do not advocate for any restrictions on her reproductive choices.
I wholeheartedly support a woman’s right to choose.
Ways to Help
Health and Wellness Emphasis
The Sustainability of Social Security
The Sustainability of Social Security
Diabetes, Childhood Obesity and Alcohol-related deaths,
New Mexico, unfortunately, has a higher prevalence of diabetes and childhood obesity than many other states, along with one of the highest rates of alcohol-related deaths in the nation. It is imperative that we significantly address these issues.
In 2008, Governor Richardson tasked
Diabetes, Childhood Obesity and Alcohol-related deaths,
New Mexico, unfortunately, has a higher prevalence of diabetes and childhood obesity than many other states, along with one of the highest rates of alcohol-related deaths in the nation. It is imperative that we significantly address these issues.
In 2008, Governor Richardson tasked me with establishing a program aimed at reducing childhood obesity, which I implemented in our elementary schools until the onset of COVID-19 in March 2020. I intend to collaborate with mayors across New Mexico to revive this program on a statewide level.
My administration will prioritize affordable prevention measures, including diabetes screenings and easy-to-administer blood tests to help residents assess their risk.
We will also ensure access to healthy foods and improved nutrition at reasonable prices. By partnering with our agricultural community, we aim to increase the availability of fruits and vegetables.
Educational initiatives are essential. I want my administration to emphasize programs that highlight the significance of a proper diet and regular exercise.
Additionally, addressing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) is crucial. Building generational wealth and financial stability can help families alleviate financial pressures. My plan includes providing employers with a stipend in exchange for voluntarily permitting their employees to bring their children to the workplace.
The Sustainability of Social Security
The Sustainability of Social Security
The Sustainability of Social Security
I want to create the New Mexico Supplemental Assistance Program
It will provide “Gap Pay” for retirees who experience SSI reductions
The ongoing discussions about the sustainability of Social Security and the potential for a 20% reduction in benefits can be quite concerning.
In 2022, 19.2% of New Mexico's population was aged 65 or older,
I want to create the New Mexico Supplemental Assistance Program
It will provide “Gap Pay” for retirees who experience SSI reductions
The ongoing discussions about the sustainability of Social Security and the potential for a 20% reduction in benefits can be quite concerning.
In 2022, 19.2% of New Mexico's population was aged 65 or older, surpassing the national average of 17.3%.
Available to longer-tenured NM residents
This percentage translates to approximately 403,200 residents out of a total population of 2,100,000. Around 103,000 have lived in the state for less than 10 years, leaving about 300,000 long-term residents. Additionally, about 23% of these individuals, or roughly 70,000 residents, rely exclusively on Social Security income.
If oil and gas revenues remain strong, I propose setting aside $1 billion each year to establish a guaranteed annuity for residents aged 65 and older who face reductions in their Social Security benefits.
Gun Control
The Sustainability of Social Security
Gun Control
As the youngest member of a military family, I was introduced to weapons at an early age and learned to handle pistols and rifles from my father and brothers.
My administration is committed to securing all schools by ensuring that unauthorized individuals cannot gain access. I have a plan on the funding necessary to make this happen.
Addre
As the youngest member of a military family, I was introduced to weapons at an early age and learned to handle pistols and rifles from my father and brothers.
My administration is committed to securing all schools by ensuring that unauthorized individuals cannot gain access. I have a plan on the funding necessary to make this happen.
Addressing the issue of youths bringing firearms to schools is crucial. We must adopt a stricter approach towards young individuals who carry guns into schools. It's essential to hold parents accountable alongside their children.
Parents play a vital role in prevention, and if they are unable to fulfill that role, there should be a way for them to communicate with law enforcement to ensure the safety of all children and bystanders.
I believe that responsibility starts at home, and we need parents to actively participate in preventing these tragic shootings. We should consider holding parents liable, either civilly or criminally, as demonstrated by recent court cases in Georgia, where both the alleged shooter and his father were indicted, and in Newport News, Virginia, where a mother and her six-year-old son were implicated in a shooting incident involving a teacher.
I wholeheartedly support the Second Amendment and the right to keep and bear arms.
Footnotes:
1 Ken’s father was a Japanese American born in Terminal Island, California and interned in Poston, AZ during WWII, Ken’s mother was a Mexican American born in Alamogordo, NM. Ken’s maternal great, great grandmother, Modesta Corona is said to have been from the Mescalero Apache tribe, which might explain why the Miyagishima brother’s DNA shows 28.5% Indigenous American blood.
2 What Gives Poor Kids a Shot at Better Lives? Economists Find an Unexpected Answer, Wall Street Journal article, Justin Lahart, July 25, 2024
3https://www.nab.usace.army.mil>realestate>eul What is Enhanced Use Leasing?
Photo Gallery
My parents, Mike and Catalina Miyagishima, were married for 65 years; unfortunately, they are both deceased.
My maternal grandparents, Juan and Concha Gallegos, affectionately known as Papito and Mama Conchita, are followed by my brother Jim, my mom, my brother Bob, my brother Joe, and my dad, who is the photographer.
My suegros (in-laws), Hortencia and Ruben Reza, my mom, my dad, my brother Jim, and my wife, Rosie, are listening to me speak at a meeting.
Photo Gallery
My paternal grandfather, Rikki Miyagishima, was held at the Santa Fe Internment camp for Japanese Americans during WWII.
Our most famous cousin (3rd cousin), the late U.S. Senator - Honorable Daniel "Ken" Inouye. He was also a Medal of Honor recipient during WWII.
My Tio Benicio "Nanchi" Misquez celebrating his 100th birthday, originally from Alamogordo, NM.
Photo Gallery
My brother Jim (on the left) is taking his oath of office after being commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, serving as a field artillery officer. On the right is my brother Bob, who, despite his younger age than Jim, holds the rank of Captain and is an air defense officer in that picture.
My brother Bob, he left the Army as an Major (O-4)
Hiroshi “Hersey” Miyamura, a distinguished American and a cherished friend of our family, is a Gallup legend and a recipient of the Medal of Honor.
Photo Gallery
Our beloved Maxy, unfortunately, he is deceased.
Freddy Miyagi
Simba Miyagi
Photo Gallery
This is the “baby” of the family, Kosmo Miyagi
Photo Gallery
I strive to maintain my children's privacy, and I hope you understand that. Here are my three sons and my daughter.
I would like to keep the badge visible, but campaign rules prohibit showing the department name or seal. Thank you for your service!