Why am I running?

I was born and raised in Albuquerque and have spent 25 of my 29 years of life on the Westside. I come from a working-class family of educators and laborers, and I carry those values with me every day: hard work, personal responsibility, and service to others.

My mother taught in public schools for over a decade before moving to a different role in education. My father spent years in the classroom before becoming an administrator. I followed their example of service, earning my degree from the University of New Mexico in 2017 and completing my law degree at UNM School of Law this May.

I’ve worked roofing with my grandfather and uncle. I currently run a small business that employs local workers. And for nearly four years, I’ve served in the City of Albuquerque’s Economic Development Department, helping entrepreneurs, job creators, and small business owners grow and succeed.

I’ve also spent years volunteering in my community, listening to my neighbors, and understanding the challenges we all face-whether it's safety, infrastructure, or economic opportunity. Since I was 22, I’ve volunteered with the Democratic Party and served as the First Vice Chair of the Bernalillo County Democrats. That experience taught me the power of grassroots organizing and how strong communities are built when everyday people step up and lead.

Daniel, his mother, aunt and uncle.

My priorities are straightforward:

• Safer neighborhoods, through practical public safety strategies that support both accountability and compassion.

• Stronger local businesses and jobs, by investing in infrastructure and supporting working families and entrepreneurs.

• Improved quality of life for all, with a dedicated focus on empowering our youth to cultivate a deep-rooted sense of belonging - inspiring them to live, work, and thrive in Albuquerque.

I believe in common-sense solutions that put people first, not politics.

Vision. Action. Results.

Why Endorse Me?

Ready to Get to Work

I’m committed to rolling up my sleeves and delivering practical solutions that improve our neighborhoods and create real opportunities for all residents.

Vision for Change

My vision is to create a vibrant, inclusive Westside where every neighbor feels safe, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Endorsements

Thank you to everyone for your support - I'm excited to get to work!

Elected Officials & Community Leaders
Former First Lady of New Mexico Clara Apodaca
Young Democrats of New Mexico Chair Marcos Balidos
APS School Board Member Heather Benavidez, District 4
Former State Representative Marsella Duarte, District 16
Former Vice Chair, Democratic Party of New Mexico Kathy Meeks Duffy
Community Leader Daniel Alfredo Garcia
Community Leader Teresa Garcia
Ward Chair 16A and Assessor Damian Lara
Former Secretary of State Clara Padilla
Community Leader Dr. Deborah Potter
New Mexico Black Leadership Council Chair and Deputy Assessor Kenneth Scott
Community Leader Gail Stephens
West Side Democrats Chair Dorothy Wilkinson
Former Chair Democratic Party of Bernalillo County Marisol Enriquez
Community Leader Nick Harrison
Community Leader Tami Bryant
Community Leader Terry J. Ihnat
Community Leader Michelle Giger
Community Leader Cecilia Chavira
Community Leader and Westside Dems Founder Ivan Pfeifer
Desna Ghatalia

Organizations
UNM Law School Democrats

Get Involved!

Would you like to be a part of my campaign? I'd love to have you on the team! Let us know how you would like to help:

Volunteer

Donate

Beginning June 2, 2025, I’ll be working to qualify for public campaign financing. Rather than seeking large private donations, I’m inviting voters in District 1 to contribute $5 to help me qualify and demonstrate grassroots support for my campaign.

Between now and July 7, 2025, I can also accept up to $250 in “seed money” contributions to help kick-start our campaign.

If you’d like to contribute, please mail a check in any amount $250 or under to:
Vote Daniel Leiva
P.O. Box 7238
Albuquerque, NM 87194

As required by law, please include your employer’s name, your occupation, and your employer’s address. Please note: Seed money donations can only be accepted from Albuquerque residents, groups, or businesses with Albuquerque addresses. We cannot accept seed money from individuals or businesses who have contracts with the City of Albuquerque.

Every dollar matters. Thank you for your donation!