Native Vote 2026
Deb Haaland, the Democratic nominee for governor of New Mexico, has committed to participating in a live televised debate ahead of the 2026 general election.
The debate, hosted by KOB, will air statewide and is scheduled to take place in early October, giving voters an opportunity to hear directly from the candidates before they cast their ballots.
In announcing her participation, Haaland said she welcomes the chance to present her vision for the state and contrast it with that of her opponent.
“I look forward to meeting my opponent on the debate stage and letting voters decide which vision is better for New Mexico. As the only candidate in the race with experience managing over 70,000 employees and an $18 billion annual budget, I am ready to lower costs, provide access to healthcare, create safer communities, and make sure our children receive a quality education. As one of the most bipartisan members of my Congressional class, my record demonstrates I’ll work with anyone to deliver for New Mexico and I’ll fight every day to protect New Mexicans from Donald Trump’s attacks,” Haaland said.
Haaland, the former U.S. Secretary of the Interior and former member of Congress, is seeking to become New Mexico’s next governor. Her campaign says her executive leadership experience and bipartisan record position her to address key issues facing the state, including affordability, healthcare, public safety, and education.
Additional details about the debate, including the exact date and format, are expected to be announced closer to the event.
