By Nicole Maxwell
U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich announced Friday morning that he decided against running for governor of New Mexico, opting to remain in the U.S. Senate.
Heinrich was considering a run for governor after the Nov. 5 general election last year, when he won his third term in the Senate.
“After careful consideration and many conversations with my family, constituents and colleagues, I’ve decided to remain in the United States Senate. It’s clear to me that New Mexico needs a strong voice in Washington now more than ever — the stakes are simply too high,” Heinrich said in a news release.
He said his decision to remain in the Senate has to do with President Donald Trump’s actions in the days since the inauguration, which include a surge of executive actions Trump instituted such as expanded immigration enforcement, blanket pardoning the Jan. 6 defendants and more.
“From fighting back against these harmful policies to defending the progress we’ve made lowering costs for working families, growing our economy, and keeping our communities safe, the Senate is where I believe I can have the most impact,” Heinrich said.
Heinrich added that he “will stand up to the President when needed, but I’m also ready to work with him and my Senate colleagues to move New Mexico and our nation forward.”
Heinrich has served in the U.S. Senate since 2013 and was in the U.S. House of Representative for two terms from 2009-2013, representing New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District.
Although no one has officially announced candidacy for governor for the 2026 race, former Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, a Democrat, is reportedly planning a run for office but has yet to make an official announcement.
A Democratic strategist close to Haaland praised her time in office, telling NM Political Report, “she’s a proven leader.”
“She’s created New Mexico jobs, brings people together, and cares about our communities,” the strategist said. “Judging by the response she’s gotten so far, New Mexicans are excited to see her lead as governor. And what I can tell you, is that she’s listening.”
Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman, also a Democrat, is rumored to be eyeing a run for the office, but told NM Political Report via text that “right now, I’m focused on fighting crime.”
Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull, a Republican, said he is considering a run for governor, but is still weighing his options.