Meek announces candidacy for mayor

RIO RANCHO — Michael Meek is adding his name to the local ballot.

However, instead of being on the ballot for the Sandoval County Commission, where he currently serves as chair, he announced his intention for run for Rio Rancho mayor in the March 2026 municipal election on Thursday.

“Rio Rancho is a city built on collaboration and resilience,” said Meek. “I look forward to serving the citizens of Rio Rancho in this exciting new capacity.”

According the announcement, Meek has lived in Rio Rancho since 1990 and is in his second term on the commission. He is also actively involved with the New Mexico Counties agency, being elected to the board of directors for the New Mexico Counties Insurance Authority, according to the release.

Meek also spent 25 years with Rio Rancho Fire and Rescue, retiring as chief in 2018. According to the announcement, he is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Officer Program, and the city improved its Insurance Service Organization rating during his tenure at RRFR.

The announcement notes that his campaign will “focus on safety, efficiency and community driven leadership for Rio Rancho’s future.”