Gregg Hull, mayor of Rio Rancho, announced his candidacy for governor of New Mexico, aiming to introduce "forward-focused, community-driven solutions" to the state's major challenges. This statement was made on his website on April 15.
"I know that our state's most pressing issues can be solved if we understand each community's concerns, with a state government that supports local solutions," said Hull, Rio Rancho Mayor. "This campaign will focus on the future instead of dwelling on the past. I have a vision for our state that doesn't make excuses for where we are, but looks for solutions that will take us to where we want to be."
Hull, who has served as mayor since 2014, is seeking the Republican nomination in the 2026 New Mexico gubernatorial race. His campaign emphasizes local governance with priorities such as crime, education, and infrastructure. Hull is the first Republican candidate to enter the race, suggesting a competitive primary ahead. According to KOB 4, an official campaign kickoff event is planned for June where Hull will elaborate on his vision for New Mexico's future.
New Mexico faces significant educational challenges. The 2024 KIDS COUNT Data Book from the Annie E. Casey Foundation ranks New Mexico last in education among U.S. states. The report points out declines in fourth-grade reading proficiency, eighth-grade math proficiency, and preschool enrollment despite slight improvements in high school graduation rates.
According to the LA Daily Post, New Mexico also struggles with high violent crime rates and consistently ranks among states with the highest per capita incidents. The FBI's Crime Data Explorer indicates that in 2023, New Mexico had a violent crime rate of 749.3 incidents per 100,000 residents—significantly above the national average—encompassing offenses like homicide, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.
Hull has been Rio Rancho's longest-serving mayor since taking office in 2014 and was re-elected in both 2018 and 2022. His leadership has focused on economic development, infrastructure improvements, and public safety initiatives that have earned Rio Rancho national recognition as one of the best and safest places to live in 2024.
