2026 New Mexico gubernatorial election explained

See also: 2026 United States gubernatorial elections.

Election Name:	2026 New Mexico gubernatorial election
Country:	New Mexico
Type:	gubernatorial
Ongoing:	yes
Previous Election:	2022 New Mexico gubernatorial election
Previous Year:	2022
Next Election:	2030 New Mexico gubernatorial election
Next Year:	2030
Election Date:	November 3, 2026
Party1:	Democratic Party (United States)
Party2:	Republican Party (United States)
Governor
Before Election:	Michelle Lujan Grisham
Before Party:	Democratic Party (United States)

The 2026 New Mexico gubernatorial election will take place on November 3, 2026, to elect the next governor of New Mexico. Due to term limits, incumbent Democratic Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham will be ineligible to seek re-election to a third consecutive term.

Democratic primary

Candidates

Potential

• Martin Heinrich, U.S. Senator (2013–present)^[1]
• Tim Keller, mayor of Albuquerque (2017–present) and former New Mexico State Auditor (2015–2017)^[1]
• Howie Morales, Lieutenant Governor of New Mexico (2019–present)^[1]

Declined

• Teresa Leger Fernandez, U.S. Representative from (2021–present)^[1]
• Jerry Ortiz y Pino, state senator from the 12th district (2005–present)^[1]

Republican primary

Candidates

Potential

• Gregory Baca, Minority Leader of the New Mexico Senate (2021–present) from the 29th district (2017–present)^[1]

Declined

• John Block, state representative from the 51st district (2023–present)^[1]
• Crystal Diamond, state senator from the 35th district (2021–present)^[1]

Independents and third parties

Candidates

Publicly expressed interest

• Greg Baldwin, voice actor^{[2] [3]}

Notes and References

1. Web site: Some lawmakers already gearing up for 2026 governor's race. Nott. Robert. March 24, 2023. March 30, 2023. The Santa Fe New Mexican.
2. Web site: Baldwin . Greg . This is a serious question. I’m legitimately pondering this…because someone’s gotta try and save this country from the fucking assholes. Should I run for Governor of New Mexico in 2026? . . 24 May 2023.
3. Web site: Baldwin . Greg . Fuck it. I’m actively investigating petition requirements to get on the ballot as an Independent for the New Mexico Gubernatorial Election in 2026. I’ll keep you informed. A pox on both their houses.. . 28 June 2024.