Gail Armstrong

Gail "Missy" Armstrong was born in 1965 or 1966 in Socorro, New Mexico, and was raised on a ranch northwest of Datil in the rural ranching communities of Socorro and Catron Counties. Her father bought and sold cars and Cessna 195 airplanes in New Mexico, while her mother was a real estate broker and skilled in home renovation. Armstrong was raised with the values of rural New Mexico, including hard work, respect, and honesty.

Armstrong married Dale Armstrong in 1984, and together they have four children and eleven grandchildren. The family moved from Bosque Farms to Magdalena over 20 years ago to raise their children in a rural setting. Armstrong is known for her ability to work across the aisle, fairness, integrity, and her dedication to her constituents' needs.

Education and Political Experience

Armstrong has served as a State Representative for New Mexico's 49th District since 2017, representing Catron, Sierra, Socorro, and Valencia Counties. In January 2025, she assumed the position of Minority Floor Leader of the New Mexico House of Representatives, making her the first female to hold this position. She previously served as Republican Caucus Chair since 2022.

Prior to her legislative career, Armstrong worked as a political aide in the office of House Speaker Don Tripp, whom she succeeded upon his retirement. She has held numerous community positions, including board membership on the Magdalena Municipal School District , the Natural Lands Protection Committee, the New Mexico School Board Association, the New Mexico Sentencing Commission, and the New Mexico State Apprenticeship Council.

Armstrong's legislative focus areas include water, farming and ranching, economic development, education, health, and public safety, with particular emphasis on ensuring rural New Mexican communities have a voice in state government.

Business Experience

As a businesswoman, Armstrong co-founded and co-owns TLC Plumbing & Utility with her husband since 1987, focusing on workforce development and community improvement. She also serves as president of Pro-Fab, Incorporated and co-owns and operates the historic Magdalena Hall Hotel and the Steer Stop gas station and mini market. Additionally, Armstrong is a rancher and has been involved in organizing the Socorro County Fair.