Las Cruces – Former U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg took the stage at a rally on Saturday afternoon to endorse two Democratic candidates seeking re‑election in New Mexico’s 2026 midterm cycle. The event, held at a local community center, featured Rep. Gabe Vasquez and Rep. Deb Haaland, the state’s gubernatorial hopeful, addressing a crowd of supporters and local volunteers.
Buttigieg praises Vasquez’s bipartisan approach
In his remarks, Buttigieg emphasized Rep. Vasquez’s reputation for working across the aisle. “He has earned a reputation as one of the most bipartisan members of Congress,” Buttigieg said. “Not by downplaying his values – the reason he is a Democrat – but by working with anybody who would work with him in order to get things done for this district. We need more of that in Washington, D.C., right now.”
Vasquez outlines his New American Immigration Plan
Rep. Vasquez followed with a description of his “New American Immigration Plan,” which he framed as a balanced approach to border security and immigration reform. “We can secure our border, we can invest in technology at our ports of entry and our rural communities, and we must provide a sensible, a fair, and a legal pathway for the hardworking illegal immigrants in this community and across our country,” Vasquez told the audience.
Deb Haaland joins the rally
Gubernatorial candidate Deb Haaland also appeared on the stage, lending her voice to the Democratic ticket. While she did not deliver a separate policy speech, her presence underscored the party’s effort to present a united front in a state that has become increasingly competitive.
Opposition response
Republican challenger Gregg Cunningham, who is contesting Vasquez’s seat, responded to the rally in a statement to KOAT. Cunningham claimed, “Gabe Vasquez has spent four years telling southern New Mexico he is a moderate. Today, he is on a stage with a woman who ran the Interior Department while Washington froze new oil and gas leasing, and a man who wanted to decriminalize illegal border crossing.”
Local context
The rally reflects the broader political dynamics in New Mexico, where both federal and state races are shaping up to be closely watched. Las Cruces, the second‑largest city in the state, has become a focal point for campaign activity, with candidates seeking to mobilize voters in the southern region.
While the Democratic candidates highlighted bipartisan cooperation and a comprehensive immigration strategy, Republican critics warned that the policies could undermine border security and economic interests tied to energy development. The debate mirrors national conversations about immigration enforcement, energy policy, and the role of bipartisan legislation in a polarized environment.
As the midterm election season progresses, both parties will likely continue to use local events like this rally to connect with voters, articulate policy positions, and contrast their visions for New Mexico’s future.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
