Land Commissioner's
Race
The Land Commissioner controls resources that fund our schools and shape our economy. Their decisions affect whether clean energy brings good jobs, whether our environment stays healthy, and whether future generations inherit a state that works for everyone.
What does the Land Commisioner do?
The Commissioner of Public Lands manages millions of acres of land that belong to all New Mexicans. This isn't just about open space – it's about our shared future. The commissioner:
-
Manages state trust lands – Oversees 13+ million acres that generate revenue for our schools
-
Leases land for energy development – Decides where oil, gas, solar, and wind projects can operate
-
Protects natural resources – Ensures responsible use of water, forests, and wildlife habitat
-
Generates school funding – Money from land leases supports public education across New Mexico
-
Balances multiple uses – Weighs energy development, recreation, conservation, and cultural preservation
Key Issues the Next Commisioner Will Face
Energy Transition and Worker Protection
New Mexicans are very attuned to the state's industry mix. Oil and gas have long been a source of jobs and revenue. Investing in clean energy and transitioning away from oil and gas jobs will continue to be top of mind for the commissioner, including:
-
Maintaining responsible oil and gas development while planning for transition
-
Ensuring clean energy projects create good-paying jobs for local workers
-
Investing lease revenues in workforce development and retraining
Funding Our Schools
Every dollar earned from state trust lands goes directly to support public schools, universities, and hospitals.
The commissioner's decisions about land leases directly affect education funding.
Climate and Environmental Protection
New Mexicans face real threats from climate change: drought, wildfires, and extreme weather.
For the commissioner, that includes addressing things like:
-
Managing forests to reduce wildfire risk
-
Protecting water resources for communities and agriculture
-
Balancing development with conservation
-
Ensuring state lands contribute to climate solutions
Access and Recreation
State lands provide hunting, fishing, hiking, and cultural sites for all New Mexicans. The next commissioner will work to:
-
Maintain public access to state lands
-
Protect sacred and cultural sites
-
Support outdoor recreation economies
-
Balance private leases with public use
Transparency and Accountability
New Mexicans value fairness. Any changes that seem to favor one group over another go against our values.
For the next commissioner, that means:
-
Making leasing decisions transparently
-
Ensuring revenues benefit all New Mexicans
-
Listening to diverse communities, including tribal nations
-
Resisting pressure from special interests
What You
Can Do
✅ Learn where candidates stand on energy transition and
worker protection
✅ Ask how they'll maximize school funding from state lands
✅ Vote for a commissioner who balances development with conservation
✅ Hold the commissioner accountable for transparent decision-making