Jeff Steinborn

Jeff Steinborn is a Democratic member of the New Mexico State Senate, representing District 36. He has been in office since 2017 and has previously served in the New Mexico House of Representatives. Steinborn is recognized for his legislative work in various areas, including outdoor recreation, environmental issues, and government transparency. He has also been involved in local film initiatives and has held several positions in public service and advocacy.

Early life and career

Jeff Steinborn was born in 1970 in Las Cruces, New Mexico. He grew up in a family with a strong presence in the community, having three sisters and two brothers, one of whom is his identical twin, Daniel Steinborn. This familial background likely influenced his commitment to public service and community engagement from an early age.

Steinborn's professional career includes significant roles in both governmental and non-profit sectors. He served as an aide to former New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, where he gained valuable experience in state governance and policy-making. Additionally, he worked as a field representative for former U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman, further deepening his understanding of legislative processes and constituent services.

In the realm of local politics, Steinborn was the chairman of the Democratic Party of Doña Ana County, a position that allowed him to influence party strategy and community outreach. His leadership in this role likely contributed to his later electoral successes. Beyond his political engagements, he is the Executive Director of Outdoor New Mexico, an organization focused on promoting outdoor recreation and conservation in the state.

Steinborn's commitment to the arts and film industry is evident through his co-founding of Film Las Cruces in 2015, where he serves as Board President. This organization has played a pivotal role in enhancing film production in Las Cruces and Doña Ana County, contributing to the local economy and cultural landscape. Under his leadership, Las Cruces has been recognized by MovieMaker Magazine as one of the "Best Places to Live and Work as a Moviemaker" multiple times, highlighting the city's growing reputation in the film industry.

Legislative service

Steinborn's legislative career began when he was first elected to the New Mexico House of Representatives in 2006. He served in this capacity until 2010 and returned to the House from 2013 to 2017. During his tenure in the House, he focused on various legislative initiatives that addressed the needs of his constituents and the broader New Mexico community.

In 2016, Steinborn transitioned to the New Mexico State Senate after defeating the Republican incumbent, Lee Cotter, in the election for District 36. His election to the Senate marked a significant step in his political career, allowing him to influence state policy on a larger scale. He was re-elected in 2020 and again in 2024, demonstrating his continued support among voters in his district.

Throughout his time in the Senate, Steinborn has been involved in a diverse range of legislative efforts. He has successfully passed legislation aimed at establishing the Rio Grande Trail, which promotes outdoor recreation and tourism in the region. Additionally, he played a key role in creating the 'Outdoor Recreation' and 'Creative Industries' Divisions within the New Mexico Economic Development Department, which are designed to foster economic growth in these sectors.

Steinborn has also been an advocate for transparency in government. He has worked to increase legislative and lobbying transparency, ensuring that the public has access to information regarding government actions and decisions. His commitment to open government has earned him recognition, including the '1st Amendment Freedom' award from the New Mexico Foundation for Open Government and the 'Best in Government' award from Common Cause New Mexico.

In environmental matters, Steinborn has led initiatives to address the cleanup of abandoned uranium mine sites, reflecting his dedication to public health and safety. He has also championed youth engagement in government, encouraging the next generation to participate in civic activities.

One of his notable legislative achievements includes leading efforts to ban the transportation and storage of high-level nuclear waste in New Mexico. This legislation was successfully passed during the 2023 legislative session, showcasing his commitment to protecting the state from potential environmental hazards.

In the 2025 legislative session, Steinborn introduced and passed the Medical Psilocybin Act, making New Mexico the third state in the United States to establish a medicinal psilocybin program. This initiative was particularly significant as it was the first of its kind to be created through legislative action rather than a ballot initiative, setting a precedent for future legislation in this area.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the New Mexico State Senate, Steinborn has concentrated on a variety of policy areas that reflect the interests and needs of his constituents in District 36. His work in outdoor recreation aligns with the natural beauty and resources of New Mexico, promoting tourism and economic development through initiatives like the Rio Grande Trail. This focus not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also attracts visitors to the state.

Steinborn's commitment to the creative industries has been instrumental in fostering a vibrant arts and culture scene in his district. By supporting film production and related activities, he has contributed to the economic diversification of the region, creating job opportunities and stimulating local businesses.

Environmental issues are another cornerstone of Steinborn's legislative agenda. His advocacy for the cleanup of abandoned uranium mines and the ban on high-level nuclear waste transportation reflects a broader commitment to public health and environmental stewardship. These efforts resonate with constituents who are concerned about the long-term impacts of such issues on their communities and the natural landscape.

In addition to these areas, Steinborn's focus on government transparency and youth engagement demonstrates a commitment to democratic principles and civic responsibility. By promoting open government and encouraging young people to participate in the political process, he aims to strengthen the democratic fabric of New Mexico.

Overall, Jeff Steinborn's legislative service is characterized by a dedication to addressing the needs of his constituents while promoting sustainable development, environmental protection, and civic engagement. His multifaceted approach to policy-making reflects a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing New Mexico and its residents.