Martin Heinrich

New Mexico Senator Martin Heinrich chose not to endorse former Interior Secretary Deb Haaland in her newly announced campaign for governor, making him the only federally elected Democrat from New Mexico to withhold support so far. His decision comes just weeks after he ruled out running for the position himself.

Haaland’s campaign launch on Tuesday sparked a wave of endorsements from the state’s Democrat congressional delegation. Senator Ben Ray Luján, along with Representatives Melanie Stansbury, Teresa Leger Fernandez, and Gabe Vasquez, all quickly voiced their support. Their backing solidified Haaland’s strong standing within New Mexico’s Democrat leadership. However, Heinrich, who has successfully won statewide office three times and holds considerable influence in the state, remains the only major Democratic figure yet to publicly endorse her.

During an interview with POLITICO’s E&E News, Heinrich did not clarify whether he intends to back Haaland’s candidacy, offering only a vague response when asked about his plans. “If I do, I’ll let you know,” he remarked, leaving the possibility open.

Heinrich’s decision to stay neutral at this stage is notable, given his leadership role as the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, a key position that shapes federal energy and environmental policy. His influence in New Mexico politics has grown significantly over the years, and an endorsement from him would carry considerable weight.

Haaland, who previously served as a U.S. representative before being appointed Interior Secretary by President Joe Biden, is making her bid for governor after her historic tenure as the first Native American to hold a cabinet-level position. Her candidacy quickly gained momentum with the backing of her former colleagues in Congress, reinforcing her ties to the state’s Democratic base.

Heinrich’s reluctance to immediately endorse her could suggest a variety of strategic considerations. He may be weighing other potential contenders in the race, assessing how Haaland’s campaign unfolds, or considering political dynamics within the state. His past decision to step aside from a gubernatorial run indicated that he was not seeking the office himself, but it remains unclear whether he will actively campaign for any candidate.

Given his track record of winning statewide elections and his seniority within the New Mexico delegation, Heinrich’s endorsement—or lack thereof—could influence the primary landscape. While he has not publicly opposed Haaland, his silence stands in contrast to the enthusiastic support she has received from the rest of the delegation.

As the gubernatorial race continues to take shape, Heinrich’s next moves will be closely watched. Whether he eventually endorses Haaland or remains on the sidelines, his decision could have implications for the party’s unity and the broader contest for New Mexico’s governorship.

According to an Axios report, former U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland is reportedly preparing to announce her candidacy for governor of New Mexico, according to sources close to her campaign. Haaland, a former congresswoman, is said to be actively organizing a team of experienced political operatives both from New Mexico and nationally, with Scott Forrester, a seasoned campaign manager, expected to lead her efforts. The move suggests she is positioning herself as the Democratic frontrunner for the race, which will likely attract significant attention given her national profile.

This development comes on the heels of far-left Democrat Sen. Martin Heinrich’s decision to remain in the Senate rather than pursue the governorship, a choice that spares Haaland from a potentially contentious primary battle. 

Heinrich, who is widely regarded as a key figure in the state’s Democrat Party, recently received praise from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer for his decision to stay in Washington, where he is seen as a crucial ally for advancing Democratic priorities. Although Heinrich has chosen not to endorse a candidate for the governor’s race at this time, his decision clears a path for Haaland to consolidate support among Democrats, particularly within progressive circles, unless a dark horse Democrat candidate comes out to challenge Haaland.

Despite the enthusiasm from “progressive” groups, Haaland’s candidacy is already drawing criticism from conservative voices and skeptics who question her suitability for the role. During her time as Interior Secretary, Haaland faced intense scrutiny over her policies, particularly her aggressive push to restrict oil and gas production, a critical component of New Mexico’s economy. 

Many argue that her actions demonstrated a lack of understanding of the state’s economic realities, prioritizing ideological environmental policies over the livelihoods of countless New Mexicans who depend on the energy sector. Her approach alienated many in the state, including those who saw her tenure as a direct threat to their economic stability.

Moreover, her time at the Department of the Interior was marred by allegations of ethical missteps and a series of controversies that called into question her leadership capabilities. Critics argue that Haaland struggled to effectively manage the complexities of her role, with her tenure marked by delays, mismanagement, and what many perceived as poor decision-making. Concerns about her mental fitness have also surfaced, with detractors pointing to moments of apparent confusion and incoherent public statements as evidence that she may lack the clarity and focus necessary to lead a state as diverse and challenging as New Mexico.

While progressive organizations such as EMILYs List have publicly praised Haaland as a “35th-generation New Mexican” and a leader who can deliver results (unknown what those are), many New Mexicans remain unconvinced. 

Her candidacy will likely polarize voters, forcing them to weigh her progressive credentials and national profile against the controversies and doubts that have followed her political career.