NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – A former state senator for Doña Ana, Luna, and Sierra counties who championed bipartisan collaboration has passed away.
John Arthur Smith served as a Democratic legislator for District 35 from 1989 to 2020. Multiple officials released statements about his death.
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former State Senator John Arthur Smith. Senator Smith was a dedicated public servant who served New Mexico with distinction and integrity for more than three decades.
Senator Smith was a tireless advocate for fiscal responsibility and worked across party lines to ensure that our state’s budget reflected the best interest of all New Mexicans. John was a true statesman, and his dedication to public service, his sharp understanding of fiscal policy, and his commitment to the people of New Mexico will not be forgotten.
We offer our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Janette, his family, and all who had the honor of working alongside him.
Minority Leader Rod Montoya, Minority Whip Alan Martinez, and House Republican Caucus Chair Gail Armstrong
Today, I join New Mexicans in mourning the loss of Sen. John Arthur Smith, an extraordinary public servant and a cherished colleague and mentor of mine and many other public servants in our state.
Senator Smith was committed to fiscal responsibility while consistently aiming to improve quality of life for all New Mexicans. His leadership of the Senate Finance Committee helped put the state on sound financial footing and earned respect from colleagues across the political spectrum. Senator was not only a masterful legislator; he was kind and honest. He provided an example of ethical and decent conduct that all elected officials, including those in Washington, D.C., would be wise to follow.
Senator Smith’s lifetime of dedication to New Mexico leaves a legacy that will continue to benefit our communities for generations to come. All New Mexicans owe him a debt of gratitude.
An announcement regarding lowering state flags in honor of Senator John Arthur Smith’s many contributions to New Mexico will be forthcoming.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Janette, his family, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched.
May he rest in peace.
New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham
We are profoundly saddened over the passing of former State Senator John Arthur Smith, who served with distinction for 31 years in the New Mexico State Senate. As the chair of the Senate Finance Committee, he was a steadfast advocate for fiscal responsibility and community welfare. His legislative legacy will have a positive impact on our state for generations. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family.
New Mexico Senate Majority
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by PostX News and is published from a syndicated feed.)
