President Trump makes big endorsement in key New Mexico race

President Donald J. Trump has officially weighed in on New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District race, endorsing Republican candidate Greg Cunningham in what is shaping up to be a closely watched contest in southern New Mexico.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised Cunningham’s background and positioned him as a strong alternative to incumbent Democrat Rep. Gabe Vasquez, while delivering a sharp critique of Vasquez’s record.

“It is my Great Honor to endorse U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and former Albuquerque Police Detective, Greg Cunningham,” Trump wrote, adding that Cunningham is “running to represent the wonderful people of New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District.”

Trump contrasted Cunningham with Vasquez, describing the incumbent as a “Radical Left Democrat” and criticizing his positions on taxes, crime, and border security. The president also claimed Vasquez supports policies that would weaken enforcement and public safety, writing that Cunningham, by contrast, would “Defend our Country, Support our Brave Military, Veterans, and Law Enforcement and Ensure PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.”

The endorsement underscores the national attention the NM-2 race is beginning to attract, as Republicans look to reclaim the seat. The district, which covers a large portion of southern New Mexico, has been a battleground in recent election cycles.

Cunningham quickly embraced the endorsement, posting on social media that he was “honored” to receive Trump’s backing and signaling confidence in the campaign ahead.

“So honored to receive President Donald Trump’s endorsement this afternoon,” Cunningham wrote. “With his support we’re going to fire Gabe Vasquez and take back #NM02!”

The endorsement could provide Cunningham with increased visibility and fundraising momentum as the race develops. Trump’s backing has historically played a significant role in Republican primaries and general elections, particularly in districts where conservative voter turnout is key.

At the same time, the endorsement is likely to further nationalize the race, drawing sharper contrasts between the candidates and their respective parties. Democrats have increasingly sought to tie Republican candidates to Trump’s agenda, while Republicans have leaned into his support as a sign of alignment with core conservative priorities.

Trump’s post also laid out a broader policy vision, emphasizing economic growth, tax cuts, energy independence, and border security as key campaign themes. He wrote that Cunningham would “work tirelessly to Grow the Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Unleash American Energy DOMINANCE… Stop Migrant Crime, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment.”

The NM-2 race is expected to be competitive, particularly given shifting political dynamics in the district in recent years. Vasquez narrowly won the seat in 2022, flipping it for Democrats after it had previously been held by Republican Rep. Yvette Herrell, the president’s deputy secretary of the Department of Agriculture. President Trump narrowly won the district in 2024, defeating Kamala Harris. 

With Trump now formally entering the race through his endorsement, the contest is likely to draw increased national attention—and resources—from both parties as they battle for control of a key congressional seat in New Mexico.