Manuel “Manny” Gonzales III stands as a true servant to the community. As a distinguished figure in New Mexico law enforcement, he was proud to serve as Sheriff to the largest county in New Mexico. With an impressive career spanning over 29 years, service has never been a burden, but an honor. Manny revitalized public trust by championing community policing, fostering strong community relations, and tailoring services to specific community needs. He established a culture at the Sheriff’s office that community always came first. He was also a champion of accountability, collaboration, and fair and impartial service that turned his Sheriff’s department into a top performing and nationally recognized department.

Beyond his local achievements, Manny has been recognized on a national scale. He was appointed to the President’s Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Justice by the United Sates States Attorney General. This reflects his dedication to tackling social issues that impact public safety on a daily basis. His community outreach efforts were impeccable. Manny reached out to education professionals, business leaders, and providers of social services to find out what’s really going on in his community. His outstanding performance at an executive level earned him an invitation to the White House Conference by the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, where he contributed valuable information and insights on the pressing issues that face our country.

During his service as Sheriff, Manny implemented comprehensive police reform that did not just follow what the rest of the country was doing due to civil unrest, but reform that served his deputies and the community. This ended up being a balanced and effective approach that would serve citizens efficiently. Manny has always been a champion for the members of his community and when the political climate across the country got hot, Manny kept his cool which allowed him to be an effective Sheriff.

Manny has not only served as a public servant, but he also brings over two decades of private sector experience as a small business owner. Twelve years in which he served as the CEO. With such a mixed background in public service and business in the private sector it’s evident that Manny knows how to serve both sides. All of these skills will be beneficial to Manny as a New Mexico Senator, and he is proud to have been granted such an amazing opportunity to do so.

Manny fought for our future as Bernalillo County Sheriff, and he will fight for the same in the NM State Senate.