Politics
Two decades in the New Mexico Senate gave Joe an insider’s view of public policy, coalition building, and the real messages behind political language.
About Joe
Joseph J. Carraro
Former New Mexico State Senator. Independent voice. Business owner, educator, writer, and public servant with a life of work across politics, business, disaster response, and community service.
The Average Joe
Plain Talk Built on Real Experience
Joe Carraro’s public life has been shaped by service, business, education, and a belief that government power comes from the consent of the governed. He brings a direct, independent perspective to politics and to the issues affecting working New Mexicans.
As a State Senator for twenty years, Joe learned that results require listening, asking questions, and working with people from both parties across the state. His campaign continues that independent approach.
Expertise Highlights
Let’s Talk About
Politics, economy, business, and the relationships that turn public concern into action.
Economy
From Wall Street to Main Street, and as chairman of a multi-billion-dollar permanent fund oversight committee, Joe understands budgets, investment, and economic pressure.
Business
As a restaurant owner, consultant, and small-business advocate, Joe knows the burden government inefficiency places on entrepreneurs and families.
Relationships
Joe’s career has relied on working relationships across parties, agencies, states, and even countries to get things done when people needed help.
Public Service
From New Mexico to National and International Challenges
Joe’s background includes service in the New Mexico State Legislature, business consulting, education, disaster response, and advocacy for those too often left unheard in government, business, and the media.
- New Mexico State Senator, 1985–2009.
- Founder of Project Share, a private homeless feeding program.
- Army Vietnam-era veteran.
- Recognized for work with small business, developmental disabilities, disaster response, and public service.
Conversations With An Average Joe
A Public Voice Beyond Politics
Joe’s commentary and creative work are rooted in the same idea: people with different views can still talk, listen, disagree, and work toward a better country.
Public Commentary
Joe speaks on government, border policy, the economy, foreign affairs, and the broken incentives of modern politics.
Stage and Screen
His play Conversations With An Average Joe was created to bring divided audiences into one room and examine real political turmoil through ordinary lives.
Independent Leadership
Joe served his final years in the State Senate as a registered Independent, bringing that perspective into this U.S. Senate ballot-access effort.
Help Put Joe on the Ballot
Sign the Official Petition
Signing Protects Voter Choice.
The official legal signature happens through the New Mexico Secretary of State portal.