Nella Domenici announces she won't run for governor
Republican Nella Domenici, who launched an unsuccessful U.S. Senate bid against incumbent Martin Heinrich last year, announced Monday she won't be running for governor in 2026.
"I am deeply touched by the outpouring of support I received in last year's United States Senate race as well as the extraordinary encouragement from around the state to be your governor," she said in a statement.
"While I am honored, I have determined that the best way to help the state that I love is to dedicate my efforts outside of government," she added. "Therefore, I have chosen not to run for governor or any other statewide position."
After losing to Heinrich by more than 10 percentage points, whether Domenici even stood a chance was up for debate.
Domenici said she would "stay involved in and serve the New Mexico community" like her father, the late U.S. Sen. Pete Domenici, and her family have done for decades.
"My focus will continue to be on healthcare, education, job creation, economic development, and public safety," she said in the statement. "Raising awareness for critical opportunities and issues and being a voice for those in need will remain a priority."
So far, no Republican candidates have publicly announced a bid for governor in next year's election.
The Democratic gubernatorial primary now has two contenders: former Interior Secretary and Congresswoman Deb Haaland of Laguna Pueblo and 2nd Judicial District Attorney Sam Bregman of Albuquerque, who officially launched his campaign late last week.
Haaland's campaign announced last week she had raised nearly $3 million in the last two months.
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