The New Mexico Senate has confirmed Jason Bowie as secretary of the Department of Public Safety.

Previously, Bowie served for 27 years at the Rio Rancho Police Department and was elected deputy chief in 2019, according to KRQE.

“What a tremendous honor this is; I am so humbled by the confidence bestowed upon me by Governor Lujan Grisham and the New Mexico Legislature," Bowie said after the confirmation. "This opportunity continues my lifelong mission of public service. I will work earnestly to provide the highest quality leadership and public safety services for the state of New Mexico, its law enforcement community, and citizens.” 

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham (D-NM) said she believes Bowie has proven himself as a public defender and will do his utmost to keep New Mexicans safe, according to the release.

“A lifelong member of law enforcement and a proven leader, Secretary Bowie is the right person to head this department," Lujan Grisham said in a statement. "Public safety is a priority of this administration, and I know that under Secretary Bowie’s leadership, New Mexico will continue to employ every available tool to keep New Mexicans safe and support New Mexico law enforcement across the state.”

According to KRQE, Bowie was appointed by Lujan Grisham in July and the Senate unanimously voted to confirm him.