On January 24, U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich announced he will forgo a gubernatorial run and remain in the U.S. Senate. The decision came “after careful consideration and many conversations” with his family, constituents and colleagues. Heinrich said this in a statement:.
“It’s clear to me that New Mexico needs a strong voice in Washington now more than ever — the stakes are simply too high. …President Trump’s alarming actions this week — attacking birthright citizenship, pardoning criminals that assaulted police officers, and rolling back American energy leadership— these actions hurt families, endanger our democracy, and threaten the future of our public lands and natural resources. … From fighting back against these harmful policies to defending the progress we’ve made lowering costs for working families, growing our economy, and keeping our communities safe, the Senate is where I believe I can have the most impact.”
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COMMENTARY AND ANALYSIS
Simply put, Senator Heinrich made the right decision. Has was just re elected to another 6 year term in the Senate, and a run for Governor in two years would call into question why he ran for another term in the Senate? He’s done a great job in the Senate and being Governor is viewed by many as a step down from being a US Senator.
The race for governor will be an open contest in 2026, as Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham is entering the final two years of her tenure and is barred by the state Constitution from seeking a third consecutive term.
It has been reported that former U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Debra Haaland is making plans to run for Governor. Confidential sources have also confirmed that Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman may also run for Governor. No Republican candidates have announced gubernatorial campaigns with former Republican Lt. Governor rumored to be looking at running.