John Pinto


John Pinto was an American politician. He served as a Democratic member of the New Mexico Senate from 1977 until his death in 2019.

Early life

Pinto was born in Lupton, Arizona, in the Navajo Nation. Pinto served in the United States Marine Corps during World War II and was a Navajo code talker.

Career

After leaving the military, Pinto was a teacher and organizer for the National Education Association. Elected to the New Mexico Senate in 1977, Pinto represented the 3rd District, which includes the Four Corners-area and spans much of western San Juan County, as well as a portion of western McKinley County. Much of the district is made up of the Navajo Nation and includes Shiprock, Sheep Springs, and part of Gallup. At 94, he was the longest-serving member in the Senate.

Personal life

He died in Gallup, New Mexico, on May 24, 2019 at the age of 94. He was succeeded in office by his granddaughter, Shannon Pinto.