The New Mexico Broadcasters Association (NMBA) spent several days in Washington, D.C., joining broadcasting leaders from across the country for the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) State Leadership Conference and meeting with members of New Mexico’s congressional delegation to discuss issues critical to the future of local broadcasting.
Representing New Mexico were NMBA Chair Mike Smith, President of Bravo Mic Communications; NMBA Treasurer Jeff Berry, General Manager of Cumulus Radio; Lori Waldon, former NMBA Chair and President and General Manager of KOAT-TV 7 (Hearst); Michelle Donaldson, NMBA Board Member and General Manager of KOB-TV 4 (Hubbard Broadcasting); Matt Martinez, NMBA Board Member and President of SDC Broadcasting; Monica Armenta, NMBA President and CEO; and Susan Reinhart, NMBA Support Specialist.
A highlight of the trip was meeting directly with members of the New Mexico congressional delegation on Capitol Hill. The NMBA extends sincere appreciation to Senator Ben Ray Luján, Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury, Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández, and Congressman Gabe Vasquez for taking time from extraordinarily demanding schedules—just days into an emerging global conflict—to hear directly from New Mexico broadcasters.
The NMBA delegation also met with Wes King and Dominic Saavedra, who graciously stepped in to represent Senator Martin Heinrich, who was unavailable. The NMBA greatly appreciates their time and engagement on issues important to local broadcasters.
During these one-on-one meetings, NMBA leaders shared the concerns and priorities of broadcasters across New Mexico, including the importance of the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act (AM4EV) and continued opposition to a performance tax on radio stations.
These discussions serve an important purpose on behalf of the millions of New Mexicans who rely on local radio and television every day. Broadcasters are local, trusted, free, and accessible, delivering news, lifesaving emergency information, and connection when other platforms fail.
New Mexico’s congressional delegation understands the essential role broadcasters play in public safety and civic life. Their willingness to listen, engage, and stand with local broadcasters is deeply appreciated.
At the conference, NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt spoke about the vital role broadcasters play in public safety, civic engagement, and strengthening local democracy. Broadcasters from across the nation gathered to share best practices, receive policy updates, and prepare for meetings with lawmakers on Capitol Hill.
Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) addressed attendees and spoke about the enduring value of broadcast radio, highlighting his leadership on the bipartisan AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, legislation aimed at ensuring AM radio remains available in new vehicles.
Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) discussed the potential threat a performance tax poses to local radio stations and emphasized the importance of broadcasters in their communities. Representative Richard Hudson (R-NC), Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, also spoke to attendees about policy issues affecting local radio and television stations.
The conference also included a special moment of recognition for NMBA’s own Susan Reinhart, who has served as the association’s Executive Manager for the past 15 years. Susan received a standing ovation from broadcasters across the country as colleagues took time to thank her for her dedication to state broadcast associations nationwide.
With Susan planning to retire in December of this year, NAB leaders and fellow state associations described her as “the heart, soul, and brain” behind so much of the work that brings broadcasters together. She was applauded for her tireless efforts connecting state associations, strengthening collaboration among broadcasters, and serving as a vital link between local associations and the NAB.
For the NMBA delegation, the experience reinforced an essential truth: local broadcasting remains one of the most trusted and reliable sources of information in America. Through advocacy in Washington and service in communities across New Mexico, broadcasters continue to fulfill their mission of informing, protecting, and connecting the public.
