A Democratic lawmaker, currently running for re-election in a competitive state, has expressed concerns about outdoor activities being predominantly reserved for white men. Representative Gabe Vazquez from New Mexico highlighted the need for what he termed “equitable access” to outdoor spaces, a sentiment he shared during appearances on various podcasts, as uncovered by recent reports.
In a June 2020 interview on the Mountains & Prairie podcast, Vazquez referred to New Mexico as “stolen land.” He commended national conservation organizations for their efforts to adopt inclusive policies that aim to increase access to outdoor activities for people of color. “People of color are out in the open,” he declared, mentioning positive signs of diversity within these organizations. “They’re starting to really push for policies that create more equitable access and opportunity.” He envisions a transformation in traditionally white spaces, urging people to embrace these changes instead of merely tolerating them.
He also criticized the lack of diversity within conservation groups, noting that historically, leadership roles have mostly been held by white men. “There’s really no desire to connect with the Hispanic community,” he remarked.
Vazquez co-founded the Nuestra Tierra Conservation Project in 2017, which focuses on promoting environmental justice and making outdoor experiences more equitable. He first entered Congress in 2022.
As he campaigns, Vazquez has faced scrutiny from Republicans who argue his views on race and law enforcement don’t align with the majority-Hispanic constituency in his district, which Trump narrowly won in 2024. He notably opposed a Republican resolution honoring law enforcement during National Police Week, which contained criticisms of movements to defund the police.
A Republican spokesperson commented that Vazquez’s stance could jeopardize his re-election prospects, suggesting voters will prefer “common sense” over what they describe as “woke nonsense.”
In previous interviews, Vazquez has indicated that racism permeates various aspects of life. He recounted experiences of feeling marginalized and stated that his expertise is often undervalued compared to that of white individuals in similar roles. “It’s frustrating,” he said, emphasizing disparities in treatment.
In the November elections, he will compete against Republican Greg Cunningham, a Marine veteran and former police officer. Cunningham is part of a program aimed at flipping Democratic seats to Republicans.
In January, the nonpartisan Cook Political Report adjusted the race’s outlook in Vazquez’s favor, shifting it from a “toss-up” to a “lean Democrat,” influenced by changing political dynamics in the district.
