"Jerry" Ortiz y Pino is a Democratic member of the New Mexico Senate, representing the 12th District since 2005.
He succeeded Richard Romero, a fellow Democrat who ran for Congress (NM-1) in 2002 & 2004 and for mayor of Albuquerque in 2009.
Was unopposed for reelection in 2008, 2012 & 2016.
Has written a recurring column, which appeared in the Weekly Alibi alternative publication in the Albuquerque area through 2012, and now appears in the ABQ Free Press biweekly alternative paper.