I’m Daniel Leiva, a lifelong Albuquerque resident and proud member of the Westside community.
I’m running for City Council to help build a stronger, safer future for the community that means so much to me.
Why am I running?
I was born and raised in Albuquerque and have spent 25 of my 29 years of life on the Westside. I come from a working-class family of educators and laborers, and I carry those values with me every day: hard work, personal responsibility, and service to others.
My mother taught in public schools for over a decade before moving to a different role in education. My father spent years in the classroom before becoming an administrator. My entire extended family are educators, and I am a proud product of Albuquerque Public Schools. I followed their example of service, earning my degree from the University of New Mexico in 2017 and completing my law degree at UNM School of Law this May.
I’ve worked roofing with my grandfather and uncle. I currently run a small business that employs local workers. And for nearly four years, I’ve served in the City of Albuquerque’s Economic Development Department, helping entrepreneurs, job creators, and small business owners grow and succeed.
I’ve also spent years volunteering in my community, listening to my neighbors, and understanding the challenges we all face-whether it's safety, infrastructure, or economic opportunity. Since I was 22, I’ve volunteered with the Democratic Party and served as the First Vice Chair of the Bernalillo County Democrats. That experience taught me the power of grassroots organizing and how strong communities are built when everyday people step up and lead.
Daniel, his mother, aunt and uncle.
My priorities are straightforward:
Safer neighborhoods, through practical public safety strategies that support both accountability and compassion.
Stronger local businesses and jobs, by investing in infrastructure and supporting working families and entrepreneurs.
Improved quality of life for all, with a dedicated focus on empowering our youth to cultivate a deep-rooted sense of belonging - inspiring them to live, work, and thrive in Albuquerque.
I believe in common-sense solutions that put people first, not politics.
Vision. Action. Results.
Your Priorities.
My Priorities.
Our Priorities.
Our campaign has knocked on over 5,000 doors and connected with thousands more by phone. You’ve shared your concerns and your vision for a stronger Albuquerque and I’ve listened. Your priorities are guiding my policy agenda, and I’m committed to turning our shared vision into tangible results that move our city forward.
Safer Neighborhoods Through Smart, Effective Public Safety
Community safety is a quality-of-life issue. I believe every family deserves to feel safe where they live, work, and raise their family. My plan combines targeted investments with forward-thinking reforms that make safety sustainable and accountable.
I will champion a citywide public safety approach rooted in transparency, accountability, and data. This means evaluating what works, focusing on outcomes, and ensuring public resources are used efficiently to keep our neighborhoods safe.
I will support diversionary programs that hold people accountable for low-level, non-violent offenses while giving them a second chance to get back on track. By using proven alternatives to prosecution like restitution, community service, or job training we can
reduce repeat offenses, ease pressure on our courts, and focus law enforcement resources where they’re needed most.
I will bring law enforcement, small businesses, neighbors, and service providers to the same table to build shared strategies around public safety. When we communicate and collaborate, we respond more effectively and create safer streets for everyone.
Growing Jobs and Empowering Small Businesses
Albuquerque’s economic future depends on the success of our entrepreneurs and workforce. I will champion a pro-growth agenda that streamlines regulation, fosters innovation, and supports upward mobility.
I will modernize the City’s permitting and licensing systems with user-friendly technology that increases transparency, reduces delays, and helps small businesses succeed. I’ll launch a development liaison program to guide applicants through the process and eliminate unnecessary barriers.
I will support working families with policies that improve access to job training, education, child care, and transit. Because removing obstacles to work grows our economy and empowers individuals.
I will partner with businesses, unions, and education providers to create real career pathways for young people to connect them to training, apprenticeships, and good-paying jobs in fast-growing industries like the trades, technology, and healthcare. When our youth can build their future here, we’re not just supporting them, we’re building the Albuquerque of the future.
Improved Quality of Life for All
Economic growth must be paired with smart infrastructure and vibrant public spaces. I’m committed to delivering the resources and amenities the Westside deserves so residents don’t just live here, they thrive here.
I will prioritize fixing traffic congestion and outdated roads on the Westside. I will prioritize road maintenance (and not just with temporary fixes). I’ll work with our neighborhood associations and community members to identify priorities. I will expand main street corridors and roundabouts to ensure safer traffic flow in our busiest areas and direct traffic away from our residential neighborhoods. I will work with our schools to identify where we need safer street access for our children.
I will direct funding to public spaces, parks, walking trails, and fund more than one community center, to promote health, family time, and connection. I will create youth development programs and recreational opportunities on the Westside to keep young people active, safe, and inspired.
I will prioritize increased housing and affordable housing efforts that maintain the character of our neighborhoods while making it possible for more families to thrive.
Defending Rights and Upholding the Rule of Law
I pursued a law degree with one purpose in mind, to better serve my community. I bring not only a passion for justice, but also the legal knowledge to uphold it.
I will use my background in law to ensure every vote I cast is rooted in the Constitution, protecting your freedoms, preserving your rights, and honoring the laws that safeguard us all.
In every decision, I will stand firmly on the side of liberty, justice, and the Westside people I’m proud to represent.
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Why Endorse Me?
My journey with the Democratic Party has been one of dedication and growth. As a young Democrat, I've had the privilege of serving our party and holding various positions that have given me invaluable insights into our party's operations and needs. This diverse experience has equipped me with a unique perspective on how we can move forward and make a real difference in our community.
Your endorsement is more than just a show of support – it's a powerful statement about the future you want to see for City Council District 1
I would be honored to have your endorsement. Please consider lending your support to our campaign by adding your name and email below:
Ready to Get to Work
I’m committed to rolling up my sleeves and delivering practical solutions that improve our neighborhoods and create real opportunities for all residents.
Vision for Change
My vision is to create a vibrant, inclusive Westside where every neighbor feels safe, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Endorsements
Thank you to everyone for your support - I'm excited to get to work!
Elected Officials & Community Leaders
Former First Lady of New Mexico Clara Apodaca
Young Democrats of New Mexico Chair Marcos Balidos
APS School Board Member Heather Benavidez, District 4
Former State Representative Marsella Duarte, District 16
Former Vice Chair, Democratic Party of New Mexico Kathy Meeks Duffy
Community Leader Daniel Alfredo Garcia
Community Leader Teresa Garcia
Ward Chair 16A and Assessor Damian Lara
Former Secretary of State Clara Padilla
Community Leader Dr. Deborah Potter
New Mexico Black Leadership Council Chair and Deputy Assessor Kenneth Scott
Community Leader Gail Stephens
West Side Democrats Chair Dorothy Wilkinson
Former Chair Democratic Party of Bernalillo County Marisol Enriquez
Community Leader Nick Harrison
Community Leader Terry J. Ihnat
Community Leader Michelle Giger
Community Leader Cecilia Chavira
Community Leader and Westside Dems Founder Ivan Pfeifer
Former APS School Board member Candy Patterson
Community Member Dr. Desna Ghatalia
Organizations
UNM Law School Democrats
Get Involved!
Would you like to be a part of my campaign? I'd love to have you on the team! Let us know how you would like to help: