Lt. Governor Howie Morales Announces “Honorary Lieutenant Governor for the Day” Initiative to Foster Student Engagement in State Government, Democracy
FOR IMMEDIATE RELASE
January 20, 2026
CONTACT: Jim Farrell at 505/795-4908 or james.farrell@lgo.nm.gov
(Santa Fe, NM) –Lieutenant Governor Howie Morales announced he will offer the “Honorary Lieutenant Governor for the Day” program to New Mexico students again during the 30-day meeting of the state legislature in Santa Fe. Started in 2023, “Honorary Lieutenant Governor for the Day” fosters civics education and promotes youth involvement in state government. It is open to all middle and high school students in New Mexico. The Legislature begins its work today, on Tuesday, January 20th.
During the Legislative Session, one student will spend each day shadowing Lt. Governor Morales, beginning in the morning. Each session will begin with a Q&A with the Lt. Governor, followed by a behind-the-scenes look into the inner workings of the Office and the New Mexico Legislature, joining Morales for an array of daily meetings. Students have the opportunity to observe the legislative proceedings of the full Senate alongside Morales, where he presides.
“The ‘Honorary Lieutenant Governor for the Day’ initiative is an exciting opportunity to directly engage young people in the work of the legislative and executive branches of our state government,” Lt. Governor Morales said. “I am happy to sponsor this program again, and I look forward to encouraging students to understand what happens in state government and our democracy, how it’s done and why it matters. As a parent and past educator, I know how important the opportunity is to learn through hands-on, out-of-school-time student engagement.”
The “Honorary Lieutenant Governor for the Day” program is offered in the State Capitol in Santa Fe to youngsters statewide, and is intended for students in grades 5 through 12. Parents are encouraged to register their child on a first-come, first-served basis. One student will be hosted per session. If you are interested, or for additional details or information contact James Farrell at James.Farrell@lgo.nm.gov or 505/795-4908.
News Story link: https://www.koat.com/article/getting-a-chance-to-be-lt-gov-for-the-day-with-the-legislature/70041776
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