Govenor's Race
The governor sets the vision for our state.
Their decisions affect whether working families can afford housing, whether children get quality education, and whether our economy creates opportunities for everyone – not just the well-connected.
What does the Governor do?
The Governor is the chief executive of New Mexico. Think of them as the CEO of our state. The governor:
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Proposes the state budget – Decides how to spend billions in state funds on schools, healthcare, roads, and public services
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Signs or vetoes laws – Works with the legislature to pass laws that affect every New Mexican
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Appoints key officials – Chooses leaders for state agencies and boards
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Represents New Mexico – Works with other states, the federal government, and tribal nations
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Responds to emergencies – Leads during crises like wildfires, floods, or public health emergencies
Key Issues the Next Governor Will Face
Economic Opportunity for All Families
New Mexicans want to know that they and their children can get ahead, not just get by. Too many families face low-wage jobs with no benefits and little ability to advance. The challenges a new governor will face include:
- Attracting new industries beyond oil and gas
- Investing in job training and education
- Supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs
- Ensuring fair wages and worker protections
Clean Energy and Good Jobs
The wind and solar industries can bring good jobs with good pay and opportunities to advance. The federal Inflation Reduction Act is expected to bring $15 billion of investment in large-scale clean power to New Mexico by 2030, although the current administration is likely to continue to make things complicated. The next governor will be tasked with:
- Incentivizing clean energy industries to come to New Mexico
- Protecting workers transitioning from fossil fuel jobs
- Ensuring rural communities benefit from new energy investments
- Balancing environmental protection with economic security
Education and Opportunity
New Mexicans are concerned about our education system, family/community support, and lack of job training leaving the next generation unprepared. The governor will work with the Public Education Commission and legislature to:
- Fund schools fairly across all communities
- Support teachers and staff with competitive pay
- Expand early childhood education
- Connect students to career pathways
Healthcare Access
Healthcare expenses remain a top concern for families. The governor oversees Medicaid and works to:
- Expand healthcare access in rural areas
- Lower prescription drug costs
- Support mental health services
- Protect coverage for pre-existing conditions
Public Safety and Community Safety
New Mexicans want safe, strong, and healthy communities for their families. The next governor will work on things like:
- Addressing crime while investing in prevention
- Supporting law enforcement and community programs
- Tackling the drug crisis with treatment and recovery services
- Building trust between communities and institutions
What You
Can Do
✅ Research all candidates in the primary (June 2) and general (November) elections
✅ Attend candidate forums in your community
✅ Ask candidates how they'll create opportunities for hardworking New Mexicans
✅ Vote in both the primary and general election