Native Vote 2026

Two major New Mexico labor organizations announced their endorsement of Democratic gubernatorial candidate Deb Haaland on Monday, adding to growing labor support for her campaign.

The endorsements came from the New Mexico State Council of Machinists and Aerospace Workers and the New Mexico Federation of Labor (AFL-CIO), organizations that represent workers across a wide range of industries throughout the state.

The labor groups cited Haaland’s record of supporting workers and advocating for fair wages, workplace protections, and economic opportunities for New Mexicans.

“We are confident that Deb Haaland will continue to support working families and ensure that we have a voice in the Roundhouse,” said John Dyrcz. “Working families deserve to not just get by, but have the opportunity to have some extra money in their pocket at the end of the month. Deb’s affordability agenda will support working families and ensure that they have fair wages, safe workplaces, and affordable communities.”

The New Mexico AFL-CIO, which represents workers in sectors including education, utilities, construction, and healthcare, also highlighted Haaland’s ties to working families and her commitment to labor issues.

“At the NM AFL-CIO, we are a voice for all workers, not just union members. It’s critical that we elect a governor who will be a voice for every working New Mexican,” said Ashley Long. “Deb Haaland comes from a long line of hard-working people and knows what comes with it. She has always stood with workers and will ensure that they have a seat at the table. We are proud to endorse Deb because she is the only candidate in this race who will fight to protect workers’ rights, strengthen workplace protections, and ensure safe working conditions for New Mexicans across our state.”

Haaland welcomed the endorsements and emphasized workforce development and economic opportunity as key priorities of her campaign.

“Each and every day, workers show up to keep our state running smoothly,” Haaland said. “As governor, I will bring the trades back to our schools in a big way, and work to grow industries in our state so our young people have the opportunity to raise their families right here in our state. I will always prioritize workers and help them get the benefits and protections they deserve.”

The endorsements add to a growing list of labor organizations backing Haaland’s gubernatorial bid. Previous endorsements include the New Mexico Professional Fire Fighters Association, Western States Regional Council of Carpenters, SMART Sheet Metal Workers Local 49, National Education Association-New Mexico, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 18, American Federation of Teachers-New Mexico, Communications Workers of America New Mexico Legislative Council, and the Committee of Interns and Residents of the Service Employees International Union.

According to the campaign, Haaland has visited all 33 counties in New Mexico during her gubernatorial campaign, meeting with workers, educators, parents, students, and community members to discuss issues facing the state and outline her vision for New Mexico’s future.

Support for New Mexico workers and expanding workforce opportunities remain central themes of Haaland’s campaign as she continues to build support ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election.

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