New Mexico governor candidates debate economic growth, business plans in Santa Fe
By Mesha Begay
Published on April 23, 2026.
Five candidates vying for the position of New Mexico's next governor are debating economic issues at a forum in Santa Fe. The discussion primarily focused on economic issues in the state and plans to help attract new businesses while helping existing ones grow. Sam Bregman, the current Bernalillo County District Attorney running for governor, is competing against Deb Haaland, the former Secretary of the Interior and congresswoman, who emphasized the importance of education in creating a workforce that will enable future economic growth. Outgoing Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull highlighted the city's recent success in attracting businesses and reducing "red tape" to reduce costs for developers and stimulate economic growth, while three Republican candidates highlighted their platforms, including Duke Rodriguez, the CEO of cannabis company Ultra Health, who pledged to eliminate state personal income tax.
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