‘Struggle makes you fierce’ Haaland vows to defend New Mexico communities, tribal sovereignty as governor

Posted by Donovan Quintero | Feb 20, 2025 | News |

GALLUP

In a campaign stop in Gallup, New Mexico, gubernatorial candidate Deb Haaland pledged to be a voice for the people and stand up for communities across the state. Haaland, who previously served as secretary of the Interior under the Biden Administration, acknowledged the “chaos” that has unfolded since the current administration took office.

Special to the Times | Sharon Chischilly
Veteran Raphael Martin takes a photo with former U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, who’s running for governor of New Mexico, during her launch tour Tuesday evening at the Veterans Helping Veterans in Gallup on Feb. 18, 2025.

“People are really worried, and they’re scared,” Haaland said, referencing the administration’s actions, such as freezing federal grants and numerous firings that have impacted New Mexicans. The former cabinet member emphasized the need for unity, stating, “We all need to lock arms and stand up for our communities.”

Issues facing Gallup, McKinley counties

Addressing the specific challenges facing Gallup and McKinley counties, Haaland recognized that issues like crime, housing, and addiction are prevalent throughout New Mexico. She vowed to frequently visit Gallup and other areas to listen to the community and understand their concerns so she can “move our platform forward and address the issues that people really care about.”

Haaland’s tenure as Interior secretary included a focus on addressing the legacy of Native American boarding schools, which she described as a crucial effort to help the country heal from the “generational trauma” caused by that era. As governor, Haaland said she intends to continue shining a light on the past and ensure that Indigenous communities have a seat at the decision-making table.

Special to the Times | Sharon Chischilly
Jaimie Bahe made Deb Haaland a Dubai chocolate bar during her eighth launch tour stop Tuesday evening at Veterans Helping Veterans in Gallup on Feb. 18, 2025.

“As long as I keep Indian Country at the decision-making table, we consult with them,” Haaland said. “There is a law in New Mexico that requires the governor’s office to consult with tribes on issues of importance and check in with them every year at the State Tribal Summit. I intend to make sure that Indian Country has a seat at the table.”

The former cabinet member also criticized the Trump Administration’s policies, which she believes have threatened the sovereignty of Indigenous tribes in New Mexico. Haaland expressed confidence that Democratic governors and attorneys general will be crucial in defending against these harmful policies through legal action and accountability.

Haaland laid out her vision for the state during a campaign rally in Gallup on Tuesday evening. Haaland was introduced by Brenda Hoskie, the chair of the McKinley County Democratic Party.

To read the full article, please see the Feb. 20, 2025, edition of the Navajo Times.
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