Harold Pope Jr. is a Democratic member of the New Mexico Senate representing District 23 , which he has served since January 2021 after defeating incumbent Republican Sander Rue in the 2020 election. Born and raised in Pueblo, Colorado, he became the first African American elected to the New Mexico Senate. A retired United States Air Force officer, Pope specialized in satellite programs, weapon systems, and nuclear deterrence as an acquisitions officer and chemist. Notable achievements include passing bills on veterans' benefits, education, reproductive rights, tax relief, renewable energy, police reform, voting rights, civil rights, anti-hazing, and consumer protections; he serves as Vice Chair of the Senate Education Committee, Chair of the Interim Military & Veterans Affairs Committee, and holds positions on other committees like Senate Health & Public Affairs and Senate Conservation. In 2025, he announced his candidacy for Lieutenant Governor in the 2026 election.

Education and Political Experience

• Earned a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry from the University of New Mexico in 2002 and a Master of Arts in Pharmaceutical Chemistry in 2016.
• Commissioned as an Air Force officer post-bachelor's; served four years active duty, then joined Air Force Reserves.
• Post-retirement, appointed facilities transition advisor in Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller's administration.
• Elected to New Mexico Senate in 2020; current committee roles include Vice Chair, Senate Education Committee; Member, Senate Conservation Committee; Chair, Interim Military & Veterans Affairs Committee.