Ben Ray Luján, born on June 7, 1972, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, has dedicated his career to public service and legislative advocacy. He graduated from Pojoaque Valley High School in 1990 and attended the University of New Mexico, later earning a B.B.A. from New Mexico Highlands University in 2007. Luján served on the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission from 2004 to 2008, including a term as chairman, and held positions as deputy state treasurer and chief financial officer for the state's cultural affairs department.

Starting his Congressional career in 2009, Luján was elected as a Democrat to the U.S. House of Representatives and served through the 116th Congress as the Assistant Speaker. In 2020, he transitioned from the House to the Senate, where he was elected with a term running through January 3, 2027.

Throughout his legislative tenure, Luján has been an active member of several important committees, including the Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and the Indian Affairs Committee. His roles on these committees highlight a focus on issues such as agricultural policy, climate change, infrastructure, and Native American rights.

Luján's legislative efforts are reflected in the bills he has sponsored and co-sponsored. Notably, he co-sponsored the Assault Weapons Ban of 2023 (SB25), aimed at mitigating gun violence by restricting semiautomatic assault weapons and large capacity ammunition feeding devices. This bill illustrates Luján's commitment to gun control and public safety. He has also shown support for social equity through his involvement with the Equal Rights Amendment (SJR4), and the FAIR Act (SB124), which addresses income rates and aims to reduce economic disparities.

In addition to issues of gun control and economic inequality, Luján is focused on environmental concerns, as evidenced by his sponsorship of the Abandoned Well Remediation Research and Development Act (SB818), which seeks to address environmental hazards associated with abandoned wells.

His legislative portfolio also showcases a dedication to enhancing local economies and agricultural practices, as demonstrated by the Expanding Local Meat Processing Act of 2025 (SB782) and the New Mexico Land Grant-Mercedes Historical or Traditional Use Cooperation and Coordination Act (SB1363), reflecting his commitment to rural development and community agriculture.

Luján's political leanings are primarily aligned with progressive values, emphasizing social equity, environmental responsibility, and gun control. His sponsorship and co-sponsorship of various bills indicate a strong commitment to advocating for marginalized communities and addressing pressing social issues at both state and national levels. His legislative activities reflect a broader Democratic agenda focused on promoting equity, sustainability, and public safety, positioning him as a key player in contemporary U.S. politics.