ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO — November 4, 2026. Democrat Deb Haaland has won New Mexico’s gubernatorial election, defeating Republican Gregg Hull and becoming the first Native American woman elected governor of a U.S. state. The historic result follows the November 3 midterm elections and represents another milestone in Haaland’s political career.
HAALAND DEFEATS REPUBLICAN GREGG HULL
Haaland secured approximately 57% of the vote, compared with about 43% for Hull, a businessman and former mayor of Rio Rancho.
The Associated Press declared Haaland the winner Tuesday night, while unofficial election returns confirmed her substantial statewide lead.
The result means Haaland will succeed Democratic Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, who was ineligible to seek another consecutive term because of term limits.
A HISTORIC FIRST FOR NATIVE AMERICAN WOMEN
Haaland, 65, is an enrolled member of the Laguna Pueblo in New Mexico. Her election makes her the first Native American woman to win a governorship in United States history.
The victory also adds to a series of historic achievements throughout her career.
In 2018, Haaland became one of the first two Native American women elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, alongside Sharice Davids of Kansas.
In 2021, she became the first Native American to serve as a U.S. Cabinet secretary when President Joe Biden appointed her to lead the Department of the Interior.
SUPPORTERS CELEBRATE HISTORIC VICTORY
Haaland celebrated her election-night victory at the Route 66 Casino Hotel, located on Laguna Pueblo land west of Albuquerque.
Supporters, Democratic officials and members of Indigenous communities gathered as election results showed her leading the race.
During her victory speech, Haaland emphasized the importance of representation and the responsibility of elected officials to address the needs of New Mexico families.
Her remarks also reflected on the experiences of earlier generations of Native Americans, including the legacy of government-run boarding schools.
NEW MEXICO’S NEXT GOVERNOR FACES MAJOR CHALLENGES
Haaland campaigned on issues including affordability, education, healthcare and economic opportunities for New Mexico residents.
Her experience in Congress and the federal government gives her a national political profile as she prepares to assume the state’s highest office.
The governor-elect will face challenges involving public services, state spending, housing costs and relations between state and tribal governments.
A NEW CHAPTER IN AMERICAN POLITICAL REPRESENTATION
Haaland’s election carries significance beyond New Mexico.
Although Native Americans have served in Congress and other public offices for decades, women from Indigenous communities have historically faced substantial barriers to reaching statewide executive leadership.
Her victory marks a new chapter in the political representation of Native American women.
Haaland is expected to take office in January 2027, following the completion of official election procedures.
