DEMING – Former New Mexico state Senator John Arthur Smith, a conservative Democrat who represented southwestern District 35 for over 30 years, passed away on Monday at the age of 82. Smith died at his home in Deming, as confirmed by Lt. Gov. Howie Morales. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham praised Smith’s legacy, stating, “He was committed to fiscal responsibility while consistently aiming to improve quality of life for all New Mexicans. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Janette, his family, and the countless individuals whose lives he touched.”
Smith, who earned a degree from the University of New Mexico in 1966, became involved in southern New Mexico politics in the early 1980s. He represented District 35 from 1989 to 2021, serving Doña Ana, Hidalgo, Luna, and Sierra counties.
As chair of the Senate Finance Committee, Smith played a critical role in shaping the state’s budget, helping expand New Mexico’s educational trust fund, and ensuring the state’s financial stability during economic downturns. State Senator George Munoz of Gallup said, “Every New Mexican owes a debt to John Arthur Smith. He protected the state’s finances in good times and bad.”