Bernalillo Hosts Deb Haaland as She Launches 2026 Governor Bid

By Jesse Jones

Deb Haaland, the first official candidate in New Mexico’s 2026 governor’s race, made her second campaign stop Feb. 14 at the Range Café in Bernalillo, addressing about 200 supporters. The event was part of a 19-town tour that began Feb. 13 in Albuquerque and will end March 2 in Ruidoso.

“Together, we can create a stronger, safer, fairer and more prosperous New Mexico, and that’s why I’m running to be your next governor,” Haaland said, to cheers from the audience.

An enrolled member of Laguna Pueblo, Haaland previously represented New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District, becoming the first Native American woman to serve in Congress, along with Sharice Davids of Kansas. Haaland made history again as the first Native American Cabinet secretary, serving as U.S. Secretary of the Interior under President Joe Biden.

Haaland said she’s focused on lowering the cost of living, strengthening public safety and combating climate change. She wants to create jobs, improve infrastructure and support small businesses while expanding healthcare access, affordable housing, addiction treatment and education reform to uplift vulnerable communities.

“I’m running to change the game for New Mexicans because we can’t keep doing the same things and expect different results.”

Joshua Jones, Sandoval County Commissioner and former Wounded Warrior fellow under Haaland shared a story to illustrate the kind of person Haaland is.

Jones said it was his job to ensure Haaland had everything she needed on the House floor. During a break, he asked if she needed anything, and she responded, “No, but have you eaten?” She returned with snacks for him.

Drawing from her background in public service, Haaland on Friday outlined a vision to address the issues head-on, with an emphasis on creating jobs, strengthening public safety and ensuring a sustainable future for the state.

“It’s why I challenge the system in every position I’ve ever held,” she said.

Haaland highlighted her work in Congress and as interior secretary, creating solar and wind energy jobs and cleaning up orphan oil and gas wells.

“Not many people know this, but several of my bills when I served in Congress were actually signed by President Trump,” Haaland said, drawing a laugh from the audience. “Surprising that he would lower himself to sign the Democrats’ bill, especially considering the uncertainty he’s causing in our communities right now.” 

Notable attendees included Bernalillo Mayor Jack Torres, Councilor Vincent Montoya, Corrales Village Councilors Rick Miera and Bill Woldman, Rio Rancho City Councilor Deb Dapson, and Sandoval County Commissioner Katherine Bruch.

According to Haaland’s campaign, she raised $686,323 from 13,394 donations within a day of announcing her candidacy, with $232,625 coming from more than 2,500 donations across all New Mexico counties. The campaign said she has nearly $1 million cash on hand, with contributions from all 50 states and Washington D.C.

“I’m running to make New Mexico safer, lower costs and ensure everyone benefits from our state’s success,” Haaland said. “I’m running so our kids can learn, thrive, and build futures here. I’m running to protect our landscapes and sacred places for generations. We can’t keep doing the same things and expect different results.”