Republican Senator Ron Griggs of New Mexico has announced his retirement from politics, opting not to seek reelection for the District 34 seat he has held since 2012. Griggs, 71, conveyed his decision in a letter, emphasizing that it is time for the next generation to lead and bring in fresh perspectives.
In his statement, Griggs expressed pride in representing Senate District 34, considering it an unparalleled honor. He acknowledged the work he has accomplished as a senator, stating, “But the time has come for new blood, new eyes, new ideas, and new directions. I am eager to pass the torch to the next generation of leaders and spend more time with Joan and my family.”
The retirement announcement was made on November 22, and Griggs will continue to serve until the end of 2024. The District 34 constituency is notably conservative, likely to remain under Republican influence in the upcoming elections.
Griggs has been a longstanding figure in New Mexico politics, representing the district since 2012 and previously holding local offices starting in 1999. His decision not to pursue a fourth term was conveyed through a letter accompanied by a press release issued late Wednesday.
Beginning his political career in 1999, Griggs was chosen to complete the unexpired term of his father, a city commissioner who passed away in office. Subsequently, he was elected as mayor before launching a successful campaign for the Senate, where he highlighted his business credentials.
As a key figure in the Senate Rural, Indian and Cultural Affairs Committee and a member of the Senate Business, Tax, and Transportation Committee, Griggs prioritized economic development. Some of his notable accomplishments include reforms to the state’s liquor licensing system, a bill addressing prescribed burns during high wind warnings, and initiatives to allocate state funds for county court facilities’ remodeling or construction.
Rumors of Griggs considering retirement circulated earlier this year, and his decision adds to a growing trend in southeast New Mexico. Senator Cliff Pirtle (R-Roswell) previously disclosed his intention to leave the Senate when his current term expires late next year. Additionally, Senators Gay Kernan (R-Hobbs) and Stuart Ingle (R-Portales) have also stepped down from their long-held seats in recent months.