The race for New Mexico’s next state land commissioner is heating up with the entry of Chaves County Commissioner Michael Perry, who officially announced his candidacy on Monday. Perry, a Republican, is the first member of his party to enter the race and brings a unique blend of public service and land management experience to the field.
Perry, a retired game warden, is no stranger to the Office of the State Land Commissioner. From 2016 to 2019, he served as assistant land commissioner under then-Commissioner Aubrey Dunn. Dunn, initially elected as a Republican, later became a Libertarian and was succeeded by the current Democratic commissioner, Stephanie Garcia Richard. Garcia Richard is term-limited and will not be seeking reelection, opening the field for a new generation of candidates.
As the state’s top land official, the land commissioner oversees more than 9 million surface acres and 13 million mineral acres, managing these resources to support public education and other institutions. Perry’s background in conservation and public lands, coupled with his prior experience in the office, is expected to appeal to voters who value practical land management and fiscal responsibility.
On the Democratic side, the race is already well underway with three declared candidates. Most recently, state Rep. Matthew McQueen, D-Galisteo, announced his intention to run. McQueen discussed his candidacy on last week’s episode of the Around the Roundhouse podcast, where he emphasized sustainable land use and environmental stewardship as key pillars of his campaign.
Beyond the land commissioner race, two other hot-button issues are making waves in New Mexico politics. Cannabis dispensaries are raising alarms over a recent increase in the state cannabis excise tax, warning that the higher costs could hurt legal businesses and push more consumers toward the black market.
Meanwhile, nicotine users could soon face a similar financial hit. According to Source New Mexico, some lawmakers are considering reintroducing a proposal in 2027 to tax e-cigarettes at the same rate as traditional tobacco products. The move would aim to curb youth vaping but could also spark pushback from users and retailers alike.
With land policy, cannabis taxation, and public health all on the political radar, New Mexico voters can expect a dynamic and closely watched 2026 election cycle.
