William E. "Bill" Sharer is a Republican state senator representing District 1 in the New Mexico Senate, which encompasses most of San Juan County, including the city of Farmington. Born on September 22, 1959, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, he was raised in Farmington, where he lives with his wife Beth , two children , and ten grandchildren. A Catholic and small business owner , Sharer has served continuously since 2001, currently as Senate Republican Leader and Ranking Member of the Finance Committee. Notable positions include leading opposition to same-sex marriage in New Mexico in 2013 by filing a lawsuit against Doña Ana County clerks. He also serves on committees such as Indian Affairs, Interim Legislative Ethics, and Public School Capital Outlay Oversight Task Force.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: AA from New Mexico Military Institute ; BA in Political Science from New Mexico State University ; graduate of Farmington High School.
• Military Service: Former U.S. Army infantryman and officer.
• Political Experience: Elected to New Mexico Senate in 2000 ; former Ranking Member of Corporations & Transportation Committee; former member of Conservation, Indian & Cultural Affairs, and Committees' Committee.