Runnels announces magistrate judge candidacy

Matt Runnels recently announced his candidacy for the position of Grant County magistrate judge, Division 1. He is seeking the Democratic nomination for the office in the upcoming June 4 primary election.

Matt said he made this announcement after a lot of soul-searching and being strongly encouraged to run by a number of community leaders, business owners, and concerned citizens who have known and worked with him on community projects and issues for many years.

With his deep knowledge and understanding of the pressing needs affecting Grant County's families, he will apply his experiences as a collaborator to effectively carry out the duties of magistrate judge.

As a longtime resident of Grant County, he is prepared to use his extensive experience as a business professional, advocate for mental health support, community engagement, and policy work knowledge to ensure the Office of Magistrate Court is run fairly, efficiently and accessibly at all times.

Matt's ability to bring people together is a unique quality to address the pressing concerns of crime, substance abuse, homelessness, domestic violence and mental health.

"As magistrate judge, I will use this role to be a unifier of local systems to address many of Grant County's problems," he said. "I will be firm and ensure violent and habitual offenders are held accountable, while taking a smart approach to addressing crime that utilizes proactive measures such as restorative justice and advocacy to more quality-of-life resources such as the reinstatement of the Behavioral Health Unit at Gila Regional Medical Center."

As a native New Mexican, Runnels learned the importance of public service at a young age. When Matt and his family moved to Grant County, he became active in a wide variety of community projects. As an experienced leader, Runnels has served as chief operating officer for Matrix Environmental, he serves on the board of directors for the Tour of the Gila and other civic organizations, as well as his work as a volunteer advisor for the FFA and 4-H programs.

He has used these roles to gain attention from state and federal leaders for funding and support for local efforts while highlighting the importance of investing in future leaders. Runnels has actively devoted time and resources to developing and encouraging a new generation of community leaders. In addition, his service as chairman of the Democratic Party of Grant County and as the chairman of the Young Democrats while a student at New Mexico State University further showcases his expertise and commitment to democratic values.

To learn more about Matt and his campaign, find him on Facebook at Matt Runnels for Magistrate Judge, Instagram @mattrunnels4judge, or Twitter @MattRunnels2024, or visit his website, matt4judge2024.com .