NRDC Reaction to Governor-Elect Deb Haaland’s Win

Sante Fe, NM. – Governor-elect Deb Haaland made history last week in becoming the first female Native American to become governor. On the campaign trail, Haaland pledged to protect local water, land, and air and prevent higher energy costs for New Mexicans. In addition to Haaland’s victory, New Mexico voters passed Constitution Amendment 4, which allows legislators to receive compensation, beginning in 2029, equal to the state’s median household income, which is currently $67,000.   

The following statements are from NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council): 

“As a tribal member of Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo, I am incredibly proud to see Governor-Elect Deb Haaland become the first Native American woman governor in U.S. history. It is inspiring to have a governor who reflects the faces of my mother, my aunts, and my Pueblo ancestors. Her election sends a powerful message to Native communities across New Mexico and Indian Country that our voices, values, and leadership belong at every level of government. 

“Governor-elect Haaland has spent her career standing up for people, communities, and the lands and waters that sustain us. NRDC will support her as she leads New Mexico toward a clean energy future, protects our air, land, and water, and builds a more prosperous New Mexico.” - James Povijua, Senior Advocate, Equity and Community Partnerships, Nature Program 

“New Mexico will finally be in line with the rest of the country in having a paid state legislature. For far too long, the lack of pay has barred many New Mexicans from considering running for the state legislature. We deserve representation that looks like us and leaders from all backgrounds and experiences. The passage of Amendment 4 will open the door for a wider range of New Mexicans to step up.” – Alexis Mena, New Mexico Policy Director, Climate & Energy 

NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council) is an international nonprofit environmental organization with more than 3 million members and online activists. Established in 1970, NRDC uses science, policy, law and people power to confront the climate crisis, protect public health and safeguard nature. NRDC has offices in New York City, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Beijing and Delhi (an office of NRDC India Pvt. Ltd).