Stephanie Garcia Richard speaks about her decision to run for lieutenant governor of New Mexico during an interview March 3 at the Los Alamos Daily Post. Photo by Carol A. Clark/ladailypost.com
By CAROL A. CLARK
Los Alamos Daily Post
caclark@ladailypost.com
New Mexico Commissioner of Public Lands Stephanie Garcia Richard has announced her candidacy for the Democratic nomination for lieutenant governor in the 2026 election.
Garcia Richard, first elected as land commissioner in 2018 and re-elected in 2022, will reach her term limit in December 2026. If elected, she would become the only the second woman and first Latina to hold the position.
“I make a perfect partner for any of the folks I’ve heard may run, including announced candidate Deb Haaland,” Garcia Richard said. “Especially in this time of uncertainty at the national level. I can be out front; I can make the hard calls, and I think that is what we need.”
Experience and Accomplishments
Before leading the State Land Office, Garcia Richard served three terms in the New Mexico House of Representatives, representing Los Alamos and the 43rd District. As land commissioner, she has overseen the management of nine million surface acres and 13 million mineral acres, generating record-breaking revenue for public schools and institutions.
Under her leadership, the office raised more than $11 billion in revenue, including a record $2.75 billion in fiscal year 2023. She has emphasized responsible land management, strengthening enforcement against industry violations while promoting renewable energy projects and conservation efforts.
In 2024, her office partnered with the U.S. Department of Defense and the New Mexico Land Conservancy to protect more than 60,000 acres of state trust land near White Sands Missile Range. The agreement, valued at $2.8 million, safeguards cultural and natural resources while supporting national security efforts.
Background and Campaign Launch
Born in Tucumcari and raised in Silver City, Garcia Richard holds a degree in political science from Barnard College and a teaching certification from California State University, Los Angeles. A former teacher, she has championed education funding throughout her career.
She and her husband, Eric Vasquez, executive director of the Northern Rio Grande National Heritage Area, reside in Northern Rio Arriba County.
Garcia Richard will officially launch her campaign at 12:30 Saturday, March 22, at Hervé Wine Bar in Santa Fe.
For more information, visit www.stephaniegarciarichard.com.