A Democratic state lawmaker in New Mexico ended his re-election campaign after reports of a bizarre incident at a Chicago hotel.
State Rep. Joseph Hernandez (D-Shiprock) allegedly “ran around the hotel naked and knocked on doors in the middle of the night,” KUNM stated.
“After careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw my candidacy from the upcoming general election. At this time, I believe the best decision for me and those I love is to focus on my health and my family, while continuing to serve the community that entrusted me with this office through the remainder of my term,” Hernandez said in a statement.
BREAKING: NM State Rep. Joseph Hernandez (D) WITHDRAWS from re-election bid after he was allegedly spotted running around a hotel NAKED in the middle of the night pic.twitter.com/Ru55ufuBdI
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) September 1, 2026
KUNM shared further:
When the details of the incident with Hernandez emerged, many urged for him to be transparent about the details of the incident. His opponent Heather Ellsion called for him to take accountability. New Mexico Sen. Jim Townsend (R-Artesia), called for Hernandez to drop out.
The deadline to replace a post-primary candidate was August 25. Anthony Allison, who held the seat until 2024 when he decided not to run for reelection, filed to run that day. But according to the Secretary of State website, Allison was disqualified and the reasons for his disqualification are not yet clear. Assuming there’s no replacement, New Mexico Republicans are guaranteed to gain the 4th district seat and so have a better chance at keeping Democrats from getting a supermajority in November’s election.
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Before Hernandez ended his candidacy, he issued an apology for his actions and said that he’s seeking assistance for his relationship with alcohol.
District 4 Democrat says he is seeking help for alcohol challenges and ignores calls to resign after reports allege public nudity, disturbing guests and a police escort from a Chicago hotel. https://t.co/csXyEiYM15
— Albuquerque Journal (@ABQJournal) August 25, 2026
More from the Santa Fe New Mexican:
State Rep. Joseph Hernandez of Shiprock blamed a drinking problem for the embarrassing morass.
“I take this situation very seriously and am seeking professional help to address my challenges with alcohol that ultimately led to this regretful lapse in judgement,” Hernandez said in a statement posted on his Facebook page.
Hernandez, who is running for reelection in November, apologized to his family and community for his behavior during his recent stay in the Windy City, saying his conduct was not reflective of his role as a state representative or his duty to his constituents.
“I am truly sorry for disappointing all those who put their faith in me, and I am committed to making meaningful changes to recover my health, regain your trust, and uphold the high standards you deserve from your elected representative,” he said.
Hernandez, who was not arrested during the incident, did not return a message seeking comment.
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