Five candidates for governor met Wednesday at the St. Francis Auditorium in Santa Fe to lay out plans to boost New Mexico’s economy. The forum focused on how to attract new businesses and help existing ones grow.

Two Democrats and three Republicans spoke to voters about jobs and business climate. Democrat Sam Bregman emphasized working with small firms. “98% of businesses in New Mexico are small businesses,” said Bregman. “We have to be a partner, not an obstacle to them succeeding. And I know that we can do that.”

Democrat Deb Haaland stressed education as a foundation for economic growth. She urged earlier exposure to career paths and hands-on training. “I want to introduce the trades in middle school, thinking about career paths for our students and hands-on training in high school and beyond,” said Haaland.

The three Republicans used the forum to highlight different policy approaches. Duke Rodriguez, CEO of Ultra Health, pushed a sharp tax plan to spur growth. “Eliminate state personal income tax. Join the other nine states who have eliminated personal income tax. We are a state of wealth. Eliminate gross receipts tax on retail sales,” said Rodriguez.

Outgoing Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull argued that cutting red tape would lower costs and speed development. “Because in the developer world, make no mistake, time is money,” said Hull. Small business owner Doug Turner returned to the theme of education and criticized long-term school performance. “31 years ago, we were 50th in the nation in performance in our public school system. So, fast forward 31 years, and we’re still 50th, which is kind of terrible,” said Turner. Independent Ken Miyagishima did not attend the forum, but his campaign says he supports housing help for families and aid for seniors facing Social Security cuts.

Early voting for the gubernatorial primaries starts May 5. Election Day for both parties is set for June 2. The campaign now moves from forums to voter outreach as candidates try to turn their plans into votes.