Ingle to stay on as NM Republican minority floor leader

New Mexico Senate Republicans have re-established their faith in Stuart Ingle when they voted to keep him as their minority floor leader Thursday in Santa Fe.

The Portales farmer and rancher was enjoying a caucus dinner Thursday night as he celebrated his remaining in the seat.

"I'm glad to be re-elected again," Ingle said. "I appreciate the confidence that my Republican senators have in me."

Ingle has held the top GOP post for more than a decade. He took office in 1985 and also served as minority whip and minority caucus chair.

Senate Whip William Payne of Albuquerque will continue to serve as caucus whip, a position he has held since 2008, and Sen. Steven Neville of Aztec will continue as caucus chairman.

Ingle says senators will attend an ethics seminar today and then they'll go home for the holiday before they get back to business as they prepare for the Legislature's 60-day session that begins in January.

Ingle says the biggest issue to solve will be approving the state's budget when they return. Education is another area they'll address this legislative session.

"It's the biggest thing we ever look at and legislate on," Ingle said.

Ingle hopes to work with those across the aisle to get things done for the betterment of their constituents.

"There's always a little more partisanship after an election," Ingle said. "You have to keep going and make sure you represent people."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.