Contact: Mike Saccone, Communications Advisor, NWF Action Fund, MikeSaccone@nwa.org, 202-797-6634

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 13, 2021) — The National Wildlife Federation Action Fund has endorsed New Mexico State Representative Melanie Stansbury in the special election for the state’s 1st Congressional District.

“We need more leaders like State Representative Melanie Stansbury in Washington, and New Mexicans would be wise to send her to Congress. She brings an unparalleled commitment to wildlife conservation, science-based decision-making, and conserving and restoring New Mexico’s public lands and waters to this special election — and would be a conservation champion in Congress,” said Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation Action Fund. “As a state lawmaker, Rep. Stansbury has demonstrated her deep understanding of how public policy can not only elevate communities, but also secure our outdoor and wildlife heritage for future generations. The National Wildlife Federation Action Fund is proud to endorse State Representative Stansbury in this special U.S. House election.”

“I am thrilled to receive the support of the National Wildlife Federation Action Fund. Throughout my career as a science professional and legislator, I’ve fought to protect the ecosystems our wildlife depend on,” Stansbury said. “We must follow the science and move forward with immediate action to protect our planet. I am running for Congress to continue championing legislation that combats the climate crisis, expands clean, renewable energy, and preserves our water, land, and air to maintain the diverse habitats and wildlife across our beautiful nation.”

Stansbury, an Albuquerque native, has worked as a science educator and a staffer for the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. She was elected in 2019 to represent the 28th District in the New Mexico House of Representatives. There she led efforts to modernize the state’s electric grid and support resilient food and water systems. She helped pass the Water Data Act, which advanced a more data-driven approach to water management in New Mexico, and sponsored the Healthy Soil Act, which supports sustainable farming practices that prioritize soil health, carbon capture, and water retention.