'Breaking Bad' Actor Michael Quezada Wins New Mexico Primary

Last summer, “Breaking Bad” actor Steven Michael Quezada announced he was seeking a commission seat in the state's most populous county, Bernalillo County. On Tuesday, Quezada beat out two other candidates in a Democratic primary race where he gathered 36 percent of the votes.

Thanks in part to being backed by George Lopez and former co-star Bryan Cranston, Quezada is now moving on to the general election for a commissioners' seat. In order to get there, he needs to face retired Albuquerque police officer, Republican Patricia Paiz in the general election.

“The bells have already rung,” Quezada said after his win. “Ding. Ding. Round two.” Additionally, Cranston gave a congratulatory call to Quezada, who then told him “It’s time to get to work,” the actor said.

As a member of the Albuquerque school board, the 52-year-old actor remains convinced he can make a difference. “I think I bring a new face to the Democratic Party,” Quezada told the Associated Press at the time of his announcement. “We need to reach out to our young people — the young Chicanos, the young Latinos — and get them involved in this process and let them know this is important.”

Quezada voted against a master plan for a nearly 22-square-mile development known as Santolina. But the housing plan raised even more concerns over water following years of severe drought and it did not satisfy the county’s lack of needed schools. Executive director of the SouthWest Organizing Project, Javier Benavidez, agreed with Quezada and was glad to see him join the race for commissioner. “We are seeing the consequences of irresponsible development,” Benavidez said.

“We need leaders who are going to commit to responsible growth and not just recruit new Wal-Marts and chain restaurants,” he explained.

However, Quezada’s opponent is reportedly convinced she will win the general election, as he did not garner enough votes to intimidate her. “He barely won. It was a close race,” said Paiz.