Deb Haaland, a candidate for governor of New Mexico, has been featured in a recent Roll Call article as an example of the type of Democratic candidate the party is turning to in order to reconnect with working-class voters. The article highlights how Democrats, following significant losses in 2024, are focusing on candidates with blue-collar backgrounds who can relate to voters concerned about the rising cost of living and a political class perceived as out of touch.
Haaland’s personal history is central to her campaign. She began working at age 15 in a bakery in Albuquerque and later faced financial difficulties as a single mother. She has spoken openly about relying on Medicaid for prenatal care and delivery, as well as receiving SNAP benefits to help make ends meet. Haaland said, “Affordability is one of the big issues, with all the tariffs and the price of groceries really going up. I understand what it’s like for people when they say it’s hard to make ends meet. I understand what it’s like for them if they have to put groceries back at the checkout line because they don’t have the money to pay for them.”
She added, “I raised my kid as a single mom. I struggled to make ends meet. I know what it’s like to be on SNAP benefits, and I was able to give birth to my child because of Medicaid,” and noted that, at 64, she is still paying off student loans.
Haaland’s campaign emphasizes her lived experience as motivation to hold those in power accountable and to ensure all New Mexicans have an equal opportunity.
