Democrat New Mexico lawmaker reveals reason for resignation

State Rep. Christine Trujillo (D-Albuquerque) announced Saturday that she would be resigning from the state legislature, effective July 1, 2023.

“It’s been the honor of my life time to represent our community in the Roundhouse for the last decade. Thank you to my neighbors for placing your trust in me as your representative. I hope I have made you proud by fighting for our public schools and working to make life easier for New Mexico families. I look forward to continuing to serve our community in my next chapter,” wrote Trujillo in the press release.

However, the announcement did not indicate a reason for her departure. Now, a recent interview between Trujillo and the Santa Fe New Mexican confirms why she is exiting the chamber.

During the 2023 Legislative Session, while sleeping on a bench in the hallway, a vote was announced and, startled, she ran to her desk but tripped on a piece of carpet — leading to her hitting the desk with her forehead.

“The back of my head hit the floor,” said Trujillo to the outlet.

She reportedly blacked out when the incident occurred but did not immediately go to the hospital because she wanted to stay to participate in the final days of the contentious 60-day legislative session.

“Exhaustion was the underlying cause of her fall. She said it’s also a reason she will resign from office at the end of this month. She served more than 10 years in the House of Representatives,” reported the New Mexican.

Once Trujillo leaves the chamber, the Bernalillo County Commission will nominate a successor, more than likely another Democrat due to the partisan makeup of the Commission and her district, which skews 71.63 percent Democrat and only 28.37 percent Republican, according to Princeton University’s analysis.