Deb Haaland, former Secretary of the Interior and the nation’s first Native American cabinet secretary, is now running for governor of New Mexico as a Democrat. If elected, she could become the first Native American woman to serve as governor in any state. With New Mexico being a major oil producer, Haaland’s campaign will focus on conservation and clean energy initiatives. She has already hired Scott Forrester as her campaign manager. Haaland’s entry into the race comes as current Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham terms out of office at the end of 2026. With no Republican candidates currently in the race, Haaland faces a potentially clear path to the governor’s office, which has historically alternated between Democratic and Republican control. Haaland’s platform includes opposition to unfettered oil and gas development and support for the Green New Deal. The race will likely be closely watched due to New Mexico’s increasing oil production and the state’s ongoing efforts to address issues such as crime and homelessness.
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