In this episode of Preserving History and Democracy, Cynthia Diaz and Janice Giron sit down with Doña Ana County Commissioners Christopher Schaljo-Hernandez and Manuel Sanchez for an engaging conversation about leadership, growth, and the future of Doña Ana County.

From their personal journeys into public service to the real, behind-the-scenes work of county government, the commissioners break down what they actually do — from serving on multiple boards and advocating in Santa Fe to approving election results and supporting voter access initiatives like a future mobile voting unit.

They also share their vision for the next 5–10 years, including historic GO Bond investments, expanding quality-of-life projects across the county, strengthening infrastructure, creating local job opportunities, and launching the county's first-ever Youth Commission to empower the next generation.

It's a candid, thoughtful discussion about accessibility, civic engagement, economic growth, and why local government matters more than you might think.

Watch here.

Hosted by: Cynthia Diaz, Janice Giron

Special Guests: Christopher Schaljo-Hernandez, Manuel Sanchez

Produced by: Cynthia Diaz, Janice Giron, Jacob Slaughter

Edited by: Jacob Slaughter

County Leadership ft. Manuel Sanchez & Christopher Schaljo-Hernandez