Former New Mexico State Rep. Eliseo Alcon passes away at age 74

SANTA FE, N.M. — Tributes are pouring in for former New Mexico State Rep. Eliseo Alcon, who died of liver cancer Monday.

New Mexico House Democrats issued a press release confirming Rep. Alcon’s death. Rep. Alcon served New Mexico House District 6, covering Cibola and McKinley counties, from 2009 to 2024. He resigned late last year after doctors placed him on hospice care.

In his life, Alcon received a Bronze Star for his service as a combat medic in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. New Mexico House Democrats remembered Rep. Alcon for policies supporting veterans and their families, safeguarding tribal sovereignty, strengthening the state’s infrastructure and economy and protecting the environment.

Statement from New Mexico House Democrats

“We are tremendously saddened by the loss of our esteemed colleague and dear friend Eliseo. During his 16 years in the House, Rep. Alcon was a tireless champion for his western New Mexico community and our service men and women. We deeply appreciated the warmth, kindness, good humor, and dedication he brought to the Roundhouse.

Rep. Alcon’s legacy will live on through the historic victories he achieved for veterans and their families, New Mexico workers, and our environment. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, especially his beloved wife Darlene and their children, grandchildren, and great grandson.”

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham

“Rep. Alcon served our state with honor, distinction, and longstanding dedication to his constituents in western New Mexico. From his heroic service as a combat medic in Vietnam, where he earned the Bronze Star, to his 16 years of dedicated public service in the legislature, Rep. Alcon exemplified public service. As chairman of the Consumer and Public Affairs Committee and the Labor, Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, he helped improve the lives of veterans, workers, and families across New Mexico. My heart goes out to Rep. Alcon’s family, friends, colleagues, and the communities he served so faithfully.” 

U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury

“I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of my dear friend and mentor State Rep. Eliseo Alcon. As a Veteran, Magistrate Judge, and State Representative—he dedicated his life to public service and was always rooted in community. Rep. Alcon was a fierce advocate for our people, the economy, the environment and Veterans. My prayers are with his family & everyone who loved and learned from Rep. Alcon. His loss will be deeply felt at the Roundhouse and across this state. Rest in Peace friend, we’ll miss you.”

New Mexico Department of Justice

“The NMDOJ is sending love and strength to those close to Rep. Eliseo Lee Alcon, a beloved public servant and combat medic who dedicated 16 years to championing the needs of his community and New Mexico’s veterans. His tireless commitment to the people of Western New Mexico and his unyielding fight for justice—especially on behalf of miners and uranium cleanup— will leave a lasting impact. His service, compassion, and legacy of fighting for what’s right will never be forgotten.”

Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina

“Condolences to Eliseo Lee Alcon’s family. Thank you for your commitment to our country and New Mexico. A true friend to law enforcement.

Former New Mexico House Speaker Brian Egolf

“RIP Chairman Lee Alcon. His legacy is secure: as a devoted family man, a Veteran, and a great legislator. We were freshmen together in the House, and he served as one of my best Chairs. A terrible loss for New Mexico. I’m praying for his family.”