Thornton announces run for state Senate

Dr. Anthony “Ant” Thornton announced Wednesday, Jan. 21, his candidacy for New Mexico Senate District 19.

“I am running for state Senate District 19 to replace Dr. Gregg Schmedes,” Thornton said. “Dr. Schmedes recently announced his retirement from office and I want to thank him for his service and leadership. He has served as a great representative of our community.”

Schmedes recently announced his intention to focus more time on his family and medical practice.

Thornton also announced his plans to go on a “listening tour” to hear concerns of constituents across District 19, which includes Sandoval County.

“I want to hear from you, the constituents, on the issues that are most important to you,” Thornton said. “Knowing that public office is a service, not an entitlement, I can only do my job if I fully understand the diverse and sometimes contradictory needs of the community in which I might serve. I need you to help me get there. I look forward to meeting you all on the campaign trail.”

Thornton is a retired aerospace engineer, having spent 27 years at Sandia National Labs, where he became the first Black director in Sandia’s history. Thornton and his wife Glenna live in the East Mountains of Albuquerque, where they are active in their local community and church.

A “walkaway” former Democrat, in 2022 Thornton was chosen by the majority of New Mexico Republican voters to be the first Black Republican nominee for lieutenant governor in New Mexico.