Deb HaalandCandidate

Deb Haaland

GovernorDemocrat

NM-Statewide Governor

Age 65·Laguna Pueblo (Native American)·Candidate for Governor of New Mexico (2026)

Why This Race Matters

Deb Haaland is running against Sam Bregman, Ken Miyagishima (D primary); TBD (R general).

If elected, Haaland would be the first Native American woman governor in U.S. history. As former Interior Secretary, she brings federal experience to a state with significant tribal lands and energy resources.

Running to succeed term-limited Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. Faces Democratic primary on June 2, 2026. Has national profile from Cabinet service.

Key dates to watch: Primary on June 2, 2026 and General Election on November 3, 2026.

About

Deb Haaland is a 35th-generation New Mexican and enrolled member of the Laguna Pueblo who made history as the first Native American Cabinet Secretary, serving as U.S. Secretary of the Interior from 2021-2025. A single mother who overcame homelessness and financial insecurity, she earned her bachelor's degree at age 34 and put herself through law school. She is now running for Governor of New Mexico in 2026.

Family & Heritage

35th-generation New Mexican. Enrolled member of Laguna Pueblo. Maternal grandparents met at St. Catherine's Industrial Indian School in Santa Fe (boarding school). Single mother to daughter Somah. Overcame homelessness and relied on food stamps and Planned Parenthood while raising her daughter. Has over 30 years of sobriety.

Political Career

Before Politics

Small business owner (Pueblo Salsa, salsa production company); Tribal administrator at San Felipe Pueblo; First woman on board of Laguna Development Corporation (second-largest tribal gaming enterprise in NM)

Education

B.A. in English, University of New Mexico (1994); J.D., University of New Mexico School of Law (2006)

Key Issues & Priorities

*Crime prevention and public safety
*Homelessness solutions
*Addiction crisis response
*Affordability and cost of living
*Rural water security
*Clean energy development
*Protection of land and water resources
*Missing and murdered Indigenous women

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