<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is scheduled to visit New Mexico to support gubernatorial Democratic candidate Deb Haaland and Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-NM). This event will take place on September 13 in Las Cruces, coinciding with New Mexico's early primary position in the 2028 primary calendar.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Buttigieg's rally will focus on the candidates’ platforms centered around affordability. This visit is part of Buttigieg's broader efforts to promote Democratic candidates, as he is considered a potential presidential contender for 2028.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">While Buttigieg has expressed that his focus is on the 2026 elections, he has indicated interest in running for president in 2028. In a previous interview on The Diary of a CEO podcast, he stated he was “more inclined than not” to run for the presidency.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">His campaign stops are strategically aligned with states that may influence the selection of the next Democratic presidential nominee. Prior to New Mexico, he visited Nevada and South Carolina.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Buttigieg's visit to New Mexico follows Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's efforts to secure the state’s position as No. 4 on the Democratic National Committee’s 2028 primary calendar. This change is anticipated to enhance the influence of Latino voters in the early nomination process.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The New Mexico gubernatorial race is currently rated as “solidly Democrat” by the Cook Political Report, while Vasquez’s district is rated “leans Democrat.” Vasquez will compete against Republican Greg Cunningham in November for the 2nd Congressional District, which was narrowly won by President Donald Trump in 2024. Haaland, a former interior secretary, will face Republican Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull to succeed the term-limited Lujan Grisham.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Democrats have held all statewide offices in New Mexico since 2017. Buttigieg’s visit may serve to enhance his visibility and policy goals among Hispanic voters in the state.</p>