Deb Haaland, the first Native American to hold a position in a presidential cabinet, has officially declared her candidacy for governor of New Mexico. The former Secretary of the Interior announced her plans on Tuesday.

A member of the Democratic Party, Haaland previously represented New Mexico as a congresswoman. She is considered a leading contender to take over from Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, who will not be seeking re-election in 2026 due to term limits.

At 64 years old, Haaland, who belongs to the Laguna Pueblo, could make history as the first Native American woman to become a state governor. Her campaign highlights her as a "35th generation" New Mexican.

Haaland’s announcement marks one of the first initiatives by prominent former members of President Joe Biden’s administration to enter the race for office since the Democrats faced a shift in power.

This article will be updated.

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