As a native of New Mexico, Salazar's career began as a precinct chairman and alternate delegate to the 1944 Democratic national convention.
In 1946 he was considered the brain trust behind the election of Democrat Tom Mabry as Governor, and afterwards was appointed the Commissioner of the State Bureau of Revenue.
During this time, New Mexico political columnist Will Harrison dubbed him the "Second floor Governor" because of his power and influence at the Capitol.
Outside the political arena, Salazar was a successful businessman, starting out in petroleum and uranium exploration, then eventually moving onto the insurance and real estate fields.
Salazar served as Treasurer for the New Mexico Democratic Party, followed by an unsuccessful run for Lieutenant Governor in 1950.