In a surprising turn of events, the Republican leadership in the New Mexico Legislature has declared they will not be pursuing reelection, leaving a significant leadership gap within the GOP. Senate Minority Leader Greg Baca of Belen made his decision public, citing intensive contemplation, discussions with family, and spiritual guidance as the reasons behind his choice.
Meanwhile, House Minority Leader T. Ryan Lane of Aztec allowed the filing deadline for the June primary election to pass without submitting his candidacy, signaling his exit from the race. However, his chosen successor, William Hall, is running unopposed in the GOP primary for the seat.
Baca, who has served since 2017 after a notable victory over a Democrat incumbent, expressed in a statement that he believes his future contributions to his community and state lie beyond another legislative term.
His decision has sparked speculation about potential aspirations for higher office, especially considering his pointed criticism of redistricting efforts that he perceives as attempts by progressives to create division within the GOP.
“Although I am proud of what we have accomplished, my work is not done. Our state has a bright future ahead and our momentum in the State Senate is evidence of that. A new day for New Mexico is coming, and as leader of the Senate Republican Caucus, a small business owner, and husband and father, I will do everything I can to see that day become a reality,” said Baca.
Lane, reflecting on his tenure, emphasized his desire to dedicate more time to his family as a primary reason for stepping down. Having led the House Republicans since January 2023, Lane believes the party is well-positioned for future success and has a strong lineup of candidates ready to steer New Mexico toward a more “centrist” path.
“The House Republicans are positioned for success moving forward. We have a slate of great candidates and intend on focusing on competitive races to bring New Mexico back towards the middle,” he said.
The announcements from Baca and Lane have caused a stir within the Republican Party, with new candidates like William Hall II stepping forward to fill the void.
Hall, a retired FBI special agent with extensive law enforcement experience, was encouraged to run for Lane’s House District 3 seat. He aims to bring his knowledge of the criminal justice system to the Legislature and is committed to serving the state and its residents with pride.
“I was basically asked [to run for the seat], and I thought, ‘Well, I’d like a chance to serve,’” Hall, 61, said in a telephone interview with the Santa Fe New Mexican. “I’ve always been in a service capacity. I was in law enforcement for many years and so I said yes, and the rest is history. It was kind of a last-minute decision, you might say.”
As the GOP faces these unexpected leadership changes, the party looks to the future with optimism, rallying behind new candidates ready to take up the mantle and continue the work of their predecessors.
Too bad. we don’t need to lose Repubicans..we need mre. i would run if I could.
When it was time to impeach the governor, only 2 were willing to do the job. I see no problem with these men stepping down.
With the GOP having nothing to offer and Pearce out of leverage, why bother?
Ominous decisions…the never Trumpers are going to make it difficult for the conservative agenda to succeed come Jan25
Having known Bill Hall for several decades and having worked with him in his former capacity I can say that I have great optimism that he will absolutely be a conservative voice for the Constitution.
Now is the time for all good men and women to come to the aid
of their country.
uniparty got ’em…