New Mexico Congressional Candidates Target Hispanic Voters

Candidates for Congress in New Mexico are focusing on Hispanic heritage and military experience as key elements to sway traditionally Democratic voters towards the Republican Party this fall.

“I connect with them on that level,” Greg Cunningham expressed regarding the Hispanic community in New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District. “They are looking for someone with law enforcement or military experience. I have both.”

He believes, “one of the reasons I decided to run is that Hispanic culture is fundamentally conservative.” This sentiment reflects a wider Republican strategy to regain traction among minority groups, especially in critical districts that could impact power shifts in the 2026 elections.

Currently, New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District is represented by Rep. Gabe Vazquez (D.N.M.), who, despite his party affiliation, was one of the few to support Donald Trump in the 2024 election. The Cook Political Report suggests that the district is “leaning” Democratic, reflecting a D+0 rating.

Cunningham emerged as the Republican candidate after his only primary challenger withdrew, and he will be the first new Republican contender since 2018. Former Rep. Yvette Herrell, who is running again, lost to Vazquez in 2024 by a narrow margin of 4.2 percentage points.

Cunningham views his extensive background as an advantage for addressing the challenges in the district. A combat veteran of the Marine Corps, he also served with the Albuquerque Police Department, focusing on drug enforcement and working on federal drug and cartel cases before shifting into private security.

“I love Yvette Herrell, but I am a different person in every way, shape and form, and what I bring to CD2 and this race is exactly what we need,” he stated. His belief is that his experience positions him well to tackle the persistent issues of crime and drug problems, which remain despite a decline in illegal immigration rates.

Cunningham pointed out, “Law enforcement, human trafficking, drug trafficking—all these challenges are the same as they were 20 years ago. Nothing has changed.” More than just his experience, he aims to resonate with the core values of the Hispanic community.

“We value family, culture, and faith. So I believe we need to engage with voters at a fundamental level—Who are you?” he said, blending political strategy with personal outreach.

New Mexico boasts a Hispanic population of nearly 50%, according to U.S. Census data. In a landscape where Democratic strongholds are commonplace, Cunningham recognizes a significant part of the challenge lies in convincing voters of the viability of a Republican candidate.

“I have to persuade the people of [New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District] that we can win this,” he concluded, highlighting the uphill battle ahead.