Richard J. Berry is the ninth mayor of Albuquerque, New Mexico and a former member of the New Mexico House of Representatives.
Berry was sworn into office on 1 December 2009, succeeding Democrat Martin Chávez. Berry is a member of the Republican Party.[1]
| R.J. Berry | |
|---|---|
| Ninth Mayor of Albuquerque, New Mexico | |
| Incumbent | |
| Assumed office 1 December 2009 |
|
| Preceded by | Martin Chávez |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 6 November 1962 Iowa |
| Nationality | American |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse(s) | Maria Medina |
| Children | Jacob Berry |
| Alma mater | University of New Mexico |
| Occupation | Businessman |
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Richard Berry was born in Iowa on November 6, 1962, he was raised in Nebraska. Berry moved to Albuquerque in 1982 to attend the University of New Mexico, where he met his future wife, Maria Medina. Berry graduated Alma mater with a degree in finance and administration, and went into business with his wife. Berry became a successful entrepreneur, working in construction for the next twenty years.[2]
While in the New Mexico House of Representatives, Berry served two terms representing the city of Albuquerque. During the mayoral race of 6 October 2009, Berry was elected with 43.88% of the popular vote. His opponents Martin Chávez and Richard Romero, both Democrats, came out with 35.05% and 20.89% of the vote. This outcome came as a slight surprise after Albuquerque's recent streak of Democratic mayors.[3] Berry currently holds a full-time paid elected position with a four-year term.[4]
Berry is an Eagle Scout, participating with his son who is also a member of the Boy Scouts. He enjoys outdoor activities and sports, lettering in track and field while at the University of New Mexico. He participates in community events, serves on the Lobo Club board of directors at the University of New Mexico. Although Berry was raised as a Methodist, he is active in the Catholic Church and school of which his wife's family attends.[2]