According to recent polling by the Albuquerque Journal, a significant portion of New Mexicans are dissatisfied with the current economic conditions. The poll reveals that 38% of respondents consider the economy "poor," while only 19% describe it as "good." The remainder either rated it as "fair" or did not express a strong opinion.

This sentiment is shared across the United States, where inflation has impacted personal and family finances, making the economy a critical issue in the 2024 election. In New Mexico, 112 legislative races are on the ballot, which will play a crucial role in shaping the state's economic future. The Legislature is responsible for enacting laws that affect tax rates, spending, and policies related to education and infrastructure.

Historically, New Mexico's Legislature has been dominated by one party since 1931. The Republican Party has not controlled both houses during this period. Currently, Democrats hold both legislative houses and the governor's office.

Despite negative perceptions of the economy, New Mexico benefits from an ongoing oil and gas boom resulting in multi-billion-dollar surpluses. However, much of this wealth remains locked in state-controlled funds while government spending continues to rise rapidly.

Issues such as crime and homelessness persist in major cities. The state's roads were recently ranked as the worst nationwide, and its education system consistently ranks low despite increased spending and new programs like universal pre-K. Although New Mexico holds $54.7 billion with an additional $6 billion unspent capital outlay, residents remain among the poorest nationally with an economy heavily reliant on oil and gas.

Critics argue that opportunities to improve have been missed by the current Democrat-controlled Legislature and governor. Instead of focusing on economic growth or retaining local talent for jobs within New Mexico, recent discussions centered around projects like high-speed rail for Albuquerque.

Paul Gessing from Rio Grande Foundation urges voters: "It is time to change our state for better."