About Me

Hello, I’m Paul Bustamante and I’m honored to be your candidate for Santa Fe City Council in District 2.

I would love to be your voice in making some positive changes for our city.

I’m married to a wonderful wife who puts up with far more than anyone should, and father to three daughters. For several years I was a single father to my two oldest daughters. I can firmly say I understand the problems we’re facing today, from rising costs across the board, to worrying if the next rent increase would put us on the streets. I’m an eighth generation New Mexican who comes from a family with a long rooted interest in public service. My time in the United States Air Force only served to reinforce the lesson I had been taught since childhood: “service before self.” 

I come from a working class background of hard workers dedicated to public service. I’ve mostly worked for the government, at both the city and federal levels, since I graduated from West Mesa High School in 1988. With degrees in Computer Science and Creative Writing, I feel I bring a unique perspective to solving problems creatively while also using solid technical skills.

Like many, I’ve had to overcome challenges in my life. After losing my job in 2001 and going through months of unemployment, I had to file for personal bankruptcy. It was a difficult decision, but led to a better financial outcome for my family. In 2004, I made a mistake one night and drove when I shouldn’t have. Fortunately, there was no accident. I was arrested for DUI, but the case was dismissed after 2 years of supervision. It’s a mistake I’ll not make again. I’ve come away from these incidents with a better understanding of the challenges people face.

We know the problems facing our city: lack of affordable housing, an increasing unhoused population, and high drug use. I want to work with my neighbors on solving these issues. I’m asking you for your support because I believe together we can tackle these problems in a way that is compassionate and that fits in with our unique Santa Fe culture. One of the most important jobs our elected officials have is to LISTEN. As I’ve gone around the district talking with people, it has become clear not everyone feels like that is happening. I would like to change that. I believe together we can be a positive force for change in Santa Fe.

-Paul