Jim Ellison Launches Campaign for New Mexico Governor

Republican Jim Ellison is positioning himself as a candidate for governor in New Mexico, eyeing the 2026 election to replace outgoing Democratic Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, who is term-limited. Ellison, previously a member of the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission, stated his concerns about the state’s current policies potentially leading to substantial hikes in electricity rates.

In his candidacy announcement shared with media outlets, Ellison expressed fears that if New Mexico follows the trajectory of California, its electricity prices might double or even triple in the next decade. It’s a stark warning given the ongoing challenges related to energy affordability.

“Right now, as people struggle with affordability, it’s evident that the energy policies led by Democrats are worsening the situation for New Mexicans,” Ellison remarked. “We need visionary leaders who can pivot before it’s too late. Our focus has to be on making electricity more affordable.”

Ellison isn’t alone in the Republican race; others include Greg Hull, the mayor of Rio Rancho, state Senator Steve Lanier, and former Human Services Secretary Duke Rodriguez, all vying for their party’s nomination.

On the Democratic side, three congressional members have announced their candidacies, with Deb Haaland, who previously served as the Secretary of the Interior under President Biden, standing out as a frontrunner. Haaland notably made history as the first Native American cabinet member.

Despite the Democratic lean in New Mexico’s federal elections, the governorship has seen a back-and-forth pattern between the two parties in recent years. If history is a guide, there’s a chance a Republican candidate could secure victory in the upcoming election.