Veteran Otero County Sheriff’s Lieutenant Jonathan Emery Announces Bid for District 2 County Commissioner Seat, Challenging Incumbent Amy Barela

Alamogordo, NM – January 25, 2026 – Long-time Otero County law enforcement officer Lt. Jonathan Emery has officially entered the race for Otero County Commissioner in District 2, running as a Republican candidate and setting up a potential primary challenge to incumbent Commissioner Amy Barela, who announced her re-election bid earlier this month.

Emery, a lieutenant with the Otero County Sheriff’s Office approaching retirement after decades of service, shared his announcement in a recent post, emphasizing his desire to continue serving the community in a new capacity. “As I approach retirement from the Otero County Sheriff’s Office this year, I want to continue to serve the people of Otero County,” Emery stated. “I am running for County Commissioner for District 2 as a Republican Candidate.”

District 2 encompasses a diverse area of southern New Mexico, including communities such as La Luz, Tularosa, Mescalero, Bent, the Alamo area, extending west to Holloman Air Force Base, and portions of Alamogordo proper. The district includes rural towns, the Mescalero Apache Reservation vicinity, and significant military presence at Holloman AFB, where issues like public safety, infrastructure, economic development tied to the base, and community services are key concerns for residents.

Emery’s campaign highlights his extensive background in local law enforcement, where he has progressed through roles including deputy, sergeant, and now lieutenant. He has experience in patrol supervision, public safety operations, and administrative responsibilities, including technology and communications systems for the Sheriff’s Office. His platform positions him as a candidate focused on leveraging that hands-on experience to address county priorities such as fiscal responsibility, public safety enhancements, and support for residents in both urban and rural parts of the district.

The race for District 2 will unfold as a Republican primary (given Otero County’s strong GOP leanings), with the general election in November 2026. 

Emery’s entry brings a law enforcement perspective to the commission race, appealing to voters prioritizing public safety and local experience in county governance. The contest could highlight debates over leadership styles, priorities for rural infrastructure, military community support, and fiscal management in Otero County.

For more details on Emery’s campaign, follow local Republican Party channels or community updates and his Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/share/1GFxMoCkSh/?mibextid=wwXIfr

.Voters are encouraged to stay informed through the Otero County website and local media as the 2026 election cycle progresses.

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