By: Senator Gabriel Ramos, District 28
People often ask me why I left the Democratic Party. My answer is simple: I don’t believe I left the Democratic Party—the Democratic Party left me.
I joined the Democratic Party when I was 18 years old. Like many New Mexicans at the time, I was a Blue Dog Democrat—fiscally conservative, supportive of working families, committed to responsible government, and willing to work across the aisle to solve problems. I believed in common sense, accountability, and putting people before politics.
Over the years, however, I watched the party move further away from the principles that first inspired me to join. While my values remained the same, the party’s priorities changed dramatically.
The issue that weighs most heavily on my heart is the sanctity of life. My pro-life beliefs are rooted in my faith, my family, and my conviction that every human life has value and deserves protection. As I served in the Legislature, it became increasingly clear that there was little room for those beliefs within today’s Democratic Party.
I also became deeply concerned about the direction the party has taken on many social issues. I believe girls deserve a level playing field in athletics and that women’s sports should remain protected for biological females. I believe parents should have a strong voice in their children’s education and upbringing. I also believe policies should respect both individual dignity and common sense while protecting the rights and privacy of everyone.
Immigration is another issue that contributed to my decision. I believe America has always been strengthened by legal immigration. My own ancestors came to this country seeking opportunity, working hard, following the law, and building a better life for their families. That is the American dream, and I believe it should continue.
At the same time, I believe our immigration system has gotten out of control. Every sovereign nation has the responsibility to know who is entering its borders and why. Border security is not about opposing immigration—it is about protecting our citizens, preserving our sovereignty, and ensuring that those who come here do so legally. In a world where terrorist organizations and hostile governments openly call for harm against the United States, I believe it is simply common sense to know who is entering our country. We can be a compassionate nation while also enforcing our laws and putting the safety and security of the American people first.
The Second Amendment is another principle I refuse to compromise. I believe the Constitution guarantees the right of law-abiding citizens to keep and bear arms. Responsible gun ownership has long been part of our nation’s heritage, and I believe our focus should be on enforcing laws against criminals rather than restricting the rights of responsible citizens.
I also became increasingly concerned about the growth of progressive ideology within the Democratic Party. Ideas that once represented the political fringe have, in my opinion, become mainstream within party leadership. As that shift occurred, many lifelong Democrats found themselves politically homeless. Some became independents, while others, like me, found a new home in the Republican Party—not because our principles changed, but because the parties did.
My decision was never driven by anger or bitterness. It was driven by conviction. I chose to stand by my beliefs, even when doing so was politically difficult.
Today, I remain committed to protecting the unborn, defending constitutional freedoms, supporting secure borders, backing law enforcement, preserving fairness in women’s sports, empowering parents, promoting fiscal responsibility, protecting our freedoms of speech and religion, and ensuring that government remains accountable to the people.
I respect that good people can disagree on many issues. But I also believe elected officials have a responsibility to stand firm when their core values are tested. That is what I have done throughout my career, and it is what I will continue to do.
I didn’t change my principles. I simply found that the Democratic Party no longer reflected them. My commitment has always been to the people I represent, the Constitution I swore to uphold, and the values that have shaped my life. Those principles will continue to guide every decision I make in public service.
BRANDON HARRIS | COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Senate Republican Leadership Office
New Mexico State Senate
Cell: (505) 506-6518
