Former Biden Interior Secretary Deb Haaland has entered the New Mexico governor's race, announcing her campaign Tuesday morning with a video posted on social media.
"The problems we face now are bigger than ever, and we must be fierce to solve them," Haaland said in the announcement on X. "That's why I am running for governor of the great state of New Mexico."
"New Mexico is rich in tradition and spirit, rich in natural resources, so why can't our families pay our bills?" she asked. "Crime, poverty, homelessness, addiction. They will keep pulling us down if we do the same things and expect a different result."
In the launch video, Haaland talked about the cost of living, improving education and safety, as well as the importance of listening to New Mexican communities.
"Lowering costs, making rent and housing affordable, strengthening our schools, and preventing crime so that you feel safe raising a family here," she said. "The solutions are there if we are fierce enough to choose them."
"New Mexicans know our lives better than anyone, and I want to know yours," Haaland continued. "In the coming weeks, I'll be traveling the state to ask you about your ideas, your struggles, and your hopes for our future because New Mexicans are fierce. That's how we succeed."
Citing her membership in the Pueblo of Laguna tribe, the former Democrat congresswoman describes herself as a 35th generation New Mexican. She is reportedly the first candidate to enter the open 2026 race.
Politico reported that Haaland's path to the general election looks pretty clear, considering current New Mexico Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham is term limited, and Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., said previously that he would not run for the state's highest office.
While no Republicans have announced they are running yet, former Republican Rep. Yvette Herrell and failed Senate candidate Nella Domenici could still announce bids, according to Politico.
As a Biden Cabinet official, Haaland led the agency tasked with overseeing the nation's public lands and waters, and she reportedly worked to limit oil and gas extraction and expand the development of renewable energy resources.
According to The Hill, however, the Willow Project, a huge oil and gas drilling initiative in Alaska, was also reapproved during Haaland's tenure.
New Mexico, like many Western states, contains large tracts of land owned by the federal government.
During her time in the House, Haaland was a member of the progressive caucus and sat on the Natural Resources, Armed Services, and Oversight and Reform committees.
Nicole Weatherholtz ✉
Nicole Weatherholtz, a Newsmax general assignment reporter covers news, politics, and culture. She is a National Newspaper Association award-winning journalist.
© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.