Meet Eddie Varela, a proud New Mexican running for Mayor of Albuquerque to be The People’s Mayor. He’s a grandfather, a firefighter, a neighbor, and a leader who’s always put service first. Born and raised in the historic Barelas neighborhood, Eddie’s roots run deep—from the South Valley to the heart of our city. His lifelong dedication to public service includes leading as the President of the City of Albuquerque Fire Fighters Union, serving on the City Council in Reserve, NM, and guiding the next generation as the NM School Board President for the Catron County School System. He’s not some distant politician; he’s a family man whose life reflects our struggles, our dreams, and our pride in calling New Mexico home. Eddie’s ready to unite us with simple ideas that work for everyone and a vision full of hope for our future.
Eddie’s story feels familiar. He graduated from Rio Grande High School in 1970, leading his Track and Field Club with grit and teamwork—qualities we New Mexicans hold dear. At 18, he worked hard as a meat cutter and managed a meat market at Furrs, proving that responsibility isn’t about age—it’s about character. That same drive carried him through 30 years as a firefighter, rising to Deputy Chief in Albuquerque and Fire Chief in Barstow, California. As a paramedic, he saved lives with steady hands and a servant’s heart. Whether rushing into flames, standing up for firefighters, or raising his kids and grandkids with love, Eddie has always been there for family and community.
Eddie Varela gets us—all of us. A proud Hispanic New Mexican, his story speaks to every voter, no matter who they are. Guided by his Christian faith, he’s a man of fairness and duty. He’s fought for safe streets, better schools, and stronger communities his whole life, and now he’s bringing that energy to build a brighter Albuquerque. Picture a city where good jobs grow, neighborhoods feel safe, and kids have a future to chase. That’s Eddie’s promise. As a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he knows home is where our hearts are. He’ll fight for policies that lift up workers, strengthen families, and give every child a shot at something great.
Eddie doesn’t play politics—he works for people. We’re all tired of division: red versus blue, old versus young. Eddie’s different. He’ll focus on what brings us together: jobs like the ones he worked growing up, safe streets he protected as a firefighter, and a community that feels like home, from the South Valley to the Northeast Heights. His plans are clear—more opportunities for our kids, new businesses to create jobs, and a city where everyone belongs. With Eddie, the American Dream isn’t just a phrase—it’s a real chance for every one of us.
This is Eddie Varela: a leader shaped by service, faith, and hope. From cutting meat to leading firefighters, from city council chambers to the school board, he’s never stopped serving New Mexico. Now, he’s asking for your vote to write our next chapter—a future where our kids thrive, our workers succeed, and our city shines. Imagine an Albuquerque full of possibility: bustling markets, busy playgrounds, and proud families. That’s what Eddie sees, and he’s ready to make it happen. With Eddie as Mayor, we’re not just picking a leader—we’re choosing a neighbor who’ll protect us, inspire us, and build a tomorrow we all believe in. Let’s stand with Eddie Varela and turn our hopes into action—together.