FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: John Dyrcz
June 2, 2026 505-554-8679


Albuquerque – American Federation of Teachers New Mexico President Whitney Holland released the following statement:

“Across New Mexico, educators and their families went to the polls to cast ballots for pro-education, pro-worker candidates, and tonight’s results made it clear that Deb Haaland’s vision for public education united them behind her candidacy.

At the onset of this primary election cycle, our union took intentional steps to shake up our endorsement process and really drill down on candidate attitudes and positions about public education and labor issues, and Deb Haaland exceeded all other candidates in her knowledge, vision, and curiosity about the work our members do every day across New Mexico.

Public educators and their families chose Deb because they know her and trust her. She has consistently shown up for us – whether it is on a picket line, phone banking at our union hall, or sharing a meal with our members while they tell their stories as public educators in New Mexico schools, colleges, and universities. No amount of campaign rhetoric or grandstanding by other candidates in this race could replace the years of authentic engagement Deb Haaland has had with our members and families. Tonight’s outcome is reflective of this reality.

Our members are committed to working diligently to elect Deb Haaland as Governor of New Mexico to ensure continued progress for New Mexico’s students and their families, public education at all levels, respect for our profession, and strengthening labor rights.”