At the Domenici Public Policy Conference on Sept. 9, held at the Las Cruces Convention Center, voters heard directly from the two candidates vying for New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District seat. Incumbent Democrat Rep. Gabe Vasquez and Republican challenger Greg Cunningham each presented their vision ahead of the crucial 2026 midterm election.
Vasquez defends Democratic immigration agenda
Rep. Vasquez spent most of his time highlighting his immigration reform proposals. He reminded the audience of his New American Immigration Plan, which seeks to modernize technology at border entry points and move away from what he called a “mass deportation machine.” Vasquez warned that if Democrats regain control of the House, he will push leadership to consider comprehensive immigration legislation.
Vasquez also warned about the potential fallout from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a sweeping tax package that includes Medicaid cuts and tighter eligibility rules. He cited figures from the conference indicating that the bill could strip health coverage from 89,000 New Mexicans and food‑stamp benefits from 20,000 residents, including 10,000 children.
Cunningham leans on public‑safety record
Greg Cunningham introduced himself by emphasizing his service as a United States Marine and his tenure with the Albuquerque Police Department. He framed his campaign around public safety and a strong law‑and‑order stance.
Addressing concerns about Medicaid, Cunningham said the legislation would not cut the program and projected a 47% increase in spending over the next decade. He argued that success should be measured by “how many people we take off of those programs,” suggesting a more restrictive approach to benefits.
When asked about New Mexico’s crime rate, Cunningham noted the state’s challenges but praised police restraint, adding that each officer‑involved shooting must be evaluated on its own facts.
Trump’s endorsement fuels Republican momentum
Cunningham disclosed that his decision to run followed a call from the National Republican Congressional Committee. He recounted that the caller told him, “President Trump wants CD 2.” The comment underscores the Trump administration’s continued influence in Republican congressional races.
He also referenced the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk on Sept. 10, noting Kirk’s ties to a local church and saying the event solidified his resolve to enter politics.
Election stakes and district history
The 2nd District has flipped parties three times in the past eight years. Vasquez defeated Republican Yvette Herrell in 2022 and again in 2024. Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson campaigned for Herrell in 2024 and later for Cunningham, making a stop in Albuquerque on Aug. 26.
Both candidates framed the upcoming election as a check on the current administration. Vasquez warned that without Democratic input, Republicans could pass a budget and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act without “a single consideration from a single Democrat.”
Local roots and voter concerns
Vasquez highlighted his upbringing in the Borderland and his education at New Mexico State University, the host of the conference. He stressed that his personal experience informs his policy priorities.
Cunningham answered a student question from NMSU about officer‑involved shootings, reiterating his belief that New Mexico’s high crime rate requires a balanced response that respects both safety and due process.
As the campaign season intensifies, Las Cruces voters will weigh immigration reform, Medicaid policy and public‑safety credentials when deciding who will represent the district in Washington.
Original reporting: Las Cruces Sun News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
