Native Vote 2026
Democratic gubernatorial nominee Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo) on Thursday outlined her vision for making New Mexico more welcoming to entrepreneurs and small businesses during an address to the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce, pledging to reduce regulatory barriers while investing in education, public safety, and economic development.
Drawing on her own experience as a former small business owner, Haaland said she understands the challenges entrepreneurs face. Before entering public office, she traveled across New Mexico selling homemade salsa to help support her family, an experience she said shaped her approach to economic policy.
“State government shouldn’t be the barrier to your dream of starting a business. Government must be a partner,” Haaland said. “I understand the obstacles small business owners face and I want to change that so New Mexicans can create jobs and build our economy. But I also know that we must address education and public safety so that our state can attract new industries that create opportunities for our kids right here at home.”…