Former Las Cruces Mayor Plans 2026 New Mexico Gubernatorial Run

Ken Miyagishima, former Las Cruces Mayor, has announced the formation of an exploratory committee to consider running for Governor of New Mexico in the 2026 election as a Democrat. He aims to decide by May and has acknowledged the candidacy of Deb Haaland, another Democrat, indicating his belief that she is not the right person for the role at this time. Miyagishima, who has a long history in public service, plans to engage with New Mexicans through town hall meetings and a dedicated website to discuss critical issues like education and healthcare. In a separate political development, Arthur Hunter, a former Orleans Parish criminal court judge, is preparing to enter the race for New Orleans mayor, having previously finished third in the 2020 district attorney race. Meanwhile, Thomas Ravenel, a former South Carolina state treasurer and reality TV star, briefly entered the 2026 gubernatorial race before withdrawing to focus on family responsibilities. Ravenel's rapid withdrawal has raised questions about the seriousness of his candidacy.