Deb Haaland Leads Gregg Hull in New Mexico Governor Race

A new Journal Poll indicates Democrat Deb Haaland maintains a narrow lead over Republican Gregg Hull in New Mexico’s gubernatorial race, with 49% of likely voters supporting her compared to 42% for Hull.

The poll, conducted from October 1 to October 9, found 9% of voters remain undecided. Haaland’s lead has remained relatively stable since an August poll, where she had a 49-43 advantage.

Haaland’s campaign has raised significantly more funds than Hull’s, with $17.3 million compared to $1.9 million as of last month. Much of her fundraising has come from out-of-state donors.

A political committee backed by the Democratic Governors Association recently launched a TV ad campaign in New Mexico linking Hull to former President Donald Trump. Hull has dismissed the ads as distractions.

Brian Sanderoff, president of Research & Polling Inc., noted that national GOP groups have not yet made a significant impact in the race. He also expressed surprise that Haaland has not widened her lead despite favorable national political conditions.

Haaland’s lead is particularly strong among female voters, Hispanic voters, and non-Anglo voters, with 54% of women, 64% of Hispanic voters, and 64% of non-Anglo voters supporting her. White voters, however, are more likely to support Hull.

Haaland’s campaign faced criticism last week for not appearing at a planned debate with Hull, citing a scheduling conflict. The debate was the only one both candidates had agreed to, though they could not find a mutually agreeable date.

The poll also found Haaland leads among independent voters, with 48% support compared to 34% for Hull. The remaining 18% of independents were undecided. Haaland also holds strong leads in Democratic-leaning regions like Santa Fe and Albuquerque.