Sandia Park, NM (KKOB) — Dr. Anthony “Ant” Thornton is announcing his candidacy for
the New Mexico State Senate, District 19.
“I am running for State Senate District 19 to replace Dr. Gregg Schmedes. Dr. Schmedes
recently announced his retirement from office and I want to thank him for his service and
leadership: he has served as a great representative of our community.”
Gregg Schmedes recently announced his intention to focus more time on his family and medical
practice. He will be endorsing Thornton in the campaign for his replacement.
Thornton also announced his plans to go on a “listening tour” to hear concerns of constituents
across District 19.
“I want to hear from YOU the constituents on the issues that are most important to you. Knowing
that public office is a service, not an entitlement, I can only do my job if I fully understand the
diverse and sometimes contradictory needs of the community in which I might serve. I need you
to help me get there. I look forward to meeting you all on the campaign trail.”
Dr. Ant Thornton is a retired aerospace engineer, having spent 27 years at Sandia National Labs,
where he became the first Black Director in Sandia’s history. Dr. Thornton and his wife Glenna
live in the East Mountains of Albuquerque where they are active in their local community and
church. A “walkaway” former Democrat, in 2022 Ant was chosen by the majority of New
Mexico Republican voters to be the first Black Republican nominee for Lt. Governor in NM
