Former Interior Secretary Deb Haaland is running for governor of New Mexico, looking to be the first Native American woman to be elected governor of a state.

Deb Haaland officially entered New Mexico’s 2026 race for governor on Tuesday, becoming the first candidate in an open — and likely expensive — race.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Deb Haaland has formally launched her campaign to run for governor in New Mexico. Haaland made the announcement Tuesday in a launch video focused on the cost of living, public safety and emphasizing what the campaign describes as “the importance of listening to communities in New Mexico.”

Former Interior Secretary Deb Haaland is formally jumping into the race to become the Land of Enchantment’s governor. She announced her campaign on Tuesday morning with a video posted online. In the launch video,

Former Interior Secretary Deb Haaland is running for the Democratic nomination for governor in New Mexico after championing conservation and clean energy during her tenure as Interior secretary under President Joe Biden.

A Democratic source close to the former U.S. interior secretary says she has hired a campaign manager for the 2026 election.

Former U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland is “preparing” to run for governor of New Mexico in 2026, a campaign spokesperson confirmed to Source NM on Tuesday. If elected, Haaland would be the first Native American person to head the state government in its 113-year history.

“Deb Haaland is of and for New Mexico. She’s a proven leader; she’s created New Mexico jobs, brings people together, and is getting ready to run to be New Mexico’s next governor. She and her team will be focused on listening and solutions that fit the needs of our communities," Forrester said.

Former Interior Secretary Deb Haaland is expected to run for governor of New Mexico, a spokesperson confirmed to KOB 4.