By Matthew Reichbach
Albuquerque City Councilor Louie Sanchez is collecting seed money for public financing for a mayoral run.
Sanchez sent a text to supporters and set up a donation page for a campaign website as he seeks to step up to the mayor’s office.
Sanchez confirmed to City Desk ABQ that he was collecting seed money, though City Desk ABQ was unable to reach him for further comment before publication.
The text, which was provided to City Desk ABQ, said “Hi, I’m City Councilor Louie Sanchez, and I’m exploring a run for Mayor of Albuquerque. I’m excited about the opportunity to share my vision for our city with each of you.”
The text then went on to say he was raising seed money and assembling campaign staff.
Earlier this month, Sanchez told City Desk ABQ that he was considering a run for mayor. Already, five candidates have filed paperwork to run for mayor and others are considering running.
Sanchez is a former law enforcement officer who was an officer, detective and sergeant with the Albuquerque Police Department and later worked for Albuquerque Public Schools police. Sanchez is now an insurance agent.
The exploratory period for candidates runs from March 3 to April 18 for mayoral candidates.
Candidates who are seeking public financing can accept “seed money” donations during the exploratory period to help launch their campaign.
Candidates can accept $250 from individuals up to $151,189.20.
Those who qualify for public financing will receive $2 per registered voter, with the amount of seed money deducted from the total.
Sanchez won election to District 1 in the Albuquerque City Council in 2021, and the seat is up for election this year, which means if he goes through with running for mayor, the seat would be open.
No candidate has filed to run for city council in the district as of yet.