Veteran State Rep. Eliseo Alcon (D-Milan) of District 6 has officially resigned from his seat. His son and political consultant, David Alcon, confirmed the news, stating, “On Saturday, Rep. Alcon submitted his retirement application to PERA and his notice of retirement to the Legislature.”
Alcon formalized his decision in a letter to the New Mexico Secretary of State. The reason for his sudden departure is health-related, though the specific condition was not disclosed. Alcon will turn 75 in January, according to reports.
First elected in 2008, Alcon represented a two-county district comprising Cibola and McKinley in western New Mexico. He was re-elected to a ninth term in November, securing 59% of the vote.
Alcon’s career included work as an infirmary technician at the Kerr-McGee uranium mines and as a magistrate judge. He also served as a combat medic in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.
As chairman of the New Mexico House Labor, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee, Alcon championed veterans’ issues at the Roundhouse.
Following the news, state Sen. Pete Campos (D-Las Vegas) wrote on X, “Thank you Eliseo Alcon-a true statesman-for your unselfish/devoted years of service to your family-country-state. You’ve earned your retirement as a State Representative. NM is better because of your many contributions to improve our daily living. I wish you the best-Siempre!”
The Governor will appoint a replacement for Alcon’s seat, with nominations coming from the county commissions of Cibola and McKinley counties. It is expected that the seat will remain in Democratic hands, and possibly in the hands of his son, David.