Governor Gary E Johnson

On July 5th, 2000, Governor Gary E Johnson graciously agreed to be
interviewed by NewMexicoActors.com, his participation is greatly
appreciated.

Governor Johnson is the 26th Governor of New Mexico, he entered
office in 1994. He was born in North Dakota, came to New Mexico in
1966, he attended UNM where he earned his Bachelor of Science in
Political Science. He married the former Dee Simms and they have 2
children.

Governor Johnson has a strong work ethic and is an accomplished
triathlete. He believes in being accountable and keeping one's word.

NewMexicoActors.com wishes to thank the Governor for taking time
from his busy schedule to talk with us and share his views. Thank you
Governor Johnson. This is the content of that interview.

NMADC: What has the state legislature done to promote the film industry
in New Mexico?
Governor Johnson: As you all know, the passage of the Gap Finance Bill,
(SB7, part of the severence tax permanent fund), went through this
year's legislature. One has to believe that it's going to have a long-
term positive impact. It's actually a fairly simple piece but it allows
New Mexico to match financing.

NMADC: Have the various departments within the state been more
supportive of the film industry since your tenure in office?
Governor Johnson: I wouldn't cast dispersions that it hasn't always
been supportive, but I know that we absolutly are completly supportive
of each other in the state offices. We're totally supportive A to Z, I
have to believe it was totally supportive beforehand also.

NMADC: Has anyone approached you about doing a premier in Santa Fe?
Governor Johnson: No, but our film office, (New Mexico Film Commission)
has been in touch with them, so we're hoping that might actually
happen.

NMADC: What are your feelings on the Taos Talking Pictures festival and
the other film festivals that are coming to or are now in NM?
Governor Johnson: Again, we're very supportive of the Taos Film
Festival, I view that as something that could continue to gain stature
and prestige. Everybody pulls together when it comes to film and
filming in New Mexico, everbody cooperates and with the bottomline goal
being more films being made in New Mexico. We have a lot to offer.

NMADC: How do you feel about the quality of the actors and extras
available here in New Mexico?
Governor Johnson: I am very impressed.

NewMexicoActors wishes to thank Governor Johnson and his staff for
their cooperation in taking time from their busy schedules to
accomodate us for this interview. Thank you.