From Intern to Press Secretary

Melissa Martinez has moved into the role of Press Secretary for Rep. Melanie A. Stansbury (D-NM-1), beginning July 1. The position represents a step up from her previous work as Communications Assistant in the same office.

Martinez, who holds a degree in political science and government from California State University, Northridge, has been with Stansbury's operation since early 2026. She had worked as Communications Assistant before her recent promotion.

Before joining Stansbury's staff, she interned in the House Democratic Caucus and worked as a District Intern in the office of Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA-32).

She has not registered as a lobbyist and has no disclosed lobbying activities under the Lobbying Disclosure Act.

The Office She Works In

Stansbury represents New Mexico's 1st congressional district and serves in the House of Representatives. She also holds the position of Ranking Member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee's Delivering on Government Efficiency Subcommittee.

Stansbury's committee assignments span government efficiency, natural resources management, and scientific research and development.

The Natural Resources Committee held a markup on July 22 that considered several measures, including the National Park System Long-Term Lease Investment Act, the Safe Beaches, Safe Swimmers Act, and legislation to designate the Christiansted Bandstand at the Christiansted National Historic Site in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Recent Activity

Stansbury has been active on constituent issues in recent days. On August 7, 2026, she posted on social media criticizing the loss of SNAP benefits, noting that over half of the five million people who lost benefits were children under 18 and seniors over 65.

Stansbury has secured federal funding for education initiatives across her district, including a new community school at To'hajiilee and STEM pipeline programs for students at the University of New Mexico.

Staff updates come from Legis1, Public Records, LegiStorm LLC, and other sources. All Rights Reserved.

Access the Legis1 platform for comprehensive political news, data, and insights.

Spot something wrong? Report an issue with this article