Chavez vs. Zimmerman, issue by issue

Both name affordable, accessible health care as a priority. Chavez’s site says she would “pass universal healthcare that removes the health insurance industry, is run by the government”, with a free choice of doctor. Zimmerman’s would expand access to affordable health services and increase the number of health care providers in the area. His page names the problem of distance, cost and shortages but no further specific proposal.

Chavez’s priority is “hiring and retaining the very best educators for early education, K-12, and higher education public schools”. Zimmerman’s site says he is dedicated to improving educational opportunities for all and that a strong school system is the cornerstone of a thriving community, but names no step to get there.

Chavez’s priority is “standing up to price gougers who are increasing the cost of everyday goods and services, from gas to housing to groceries to healthcare and prescription drugs”. She names no specific mechanism. Zimmerman told Source NM he wants “tax and regulatory relief so families and small businesses can keep more of their money,” and calls a livable cost of living the foundation everything else rests on.

Chavez’s site lists a priority to protect New Mexico’s immigrant communities from ICE and federal immigration overreach, with no detail on how. The Ledger found nothing from Zimmerman on immigration or ICE.

Zimmerman’s plan lists community policing, improved street lighting, neighborhood watch programs, more money for local law enforcement and for crime prevention and youth programs, and closer cooperation between police and residents. Chavez’s home page says “families continue to struggle with crime, healthcare costs and access, and the cost of living”, but the Ledger found no proposal from her on crime.

Zimmerman would reduce regulatory burdens and bureaucratic red tape, increase access to capital, and provide financial incentives for startups and local entrepreneurs, and expand business education programs. The Ledger found nothing from Chavez on small business.