There's no secret about The New Mexican's general-election choice for the U.S. Senate: Tom Udall has represented our congressional district honestly, courageously — and effectively; he would serve our state with great distinction.

His November opponent will be one of New Mexico's two Republican represenatives. The better GOP candidate is Heather Wilson.

An Air Force Academy graduate with top honors who went on to an advanced degree at Oxford, Wilson went into national-security work before serving our state as Secretary of Children, Youth and Family in the Gary Johnson administration. She's been in Congress nearly 10 years, and has been a thoughtful, often-independent representative while standing strong for New Mexico's military installations and national laboratories.

Sen. Domenici's been her mentor, and she's learned well from the New Mexico legend — especially when it comes to Pete's fiscally responsible traits.

The New Mexican will repeat its endorsement list next Sunday — and on primary-election day, June 3.