Haaland, Hull Secure New Mexico Governor Nominations

New Mexico voters chose the candidates who will compete to replace term-limited Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham in November. The outcome determines who will manage a state budget built on oil and gas revenue that funds universal child care, school lunches, free college tuition and expanded health coverage.

Former Interior Secretary Deb Haaland captured the Democratic nomination by defeating Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman. Haaland, a member of the Laguna Pueblo tribe and the first Native American to serve in a presidential Cabinet, led in polls throughout the race. Bregman, a former Albuquerque city councilman, campaigned on his law-enforcement record and proposals to address violent crime and fentanyl trafficking.

On the Republican side, former Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull won the nomination over businessman Doug Turner and former state Human Services Secretary Duke Rodriguez. Hull, who served as mayor of the state’s third-largest city, emphasized public safety, border security and economic growth. Turner presented himself as a political outsider focused on jobs and education. Rodriguez highlighted health care access and addiction treatment.

The general election will test whether Republicans can capture the governor’s office for the first time since 2019 in a state that has trended Democratic in recent cycles yet continues to elect candidates from both parties. Haaland would become the first elected Native American woman governor if she wins. Hull’s victory gives Republicans a candidate with statewide name recognition and local government experience heading into the fall contest.

New Mexico ranks among the nation’s poorest states while exporting more oil than any state except Texas. The next governor will oversee how those revenues support existing social programs and respond to ongoing challenges in crime, housing costs and education.