Animal Protection Voters (APV) is proud to announce its endorsement of Deb Haaland for Governor of New Mexico in the 2026 election.
Haaland, former U.S. Secretary of the Interior, is by far the most experienced candidate, having previously directed a federal agency overseeing the conservation and use of roughly 500 million acres of federal lands, national parks, and wildlife refuges. Further, no other candidate vying for the Governor’s seat can compare to her voting record on, or history of sponsoring, animal protection legislation.
“The balance of nature and protection of our traditions in New Mexico, relies on protecting our animal relatives. Whether it’s protecting endangered species or keeping habitats whole, I carry that value and strengthen the rights of animals in every position I serve in. I am honored to have the support of Animal Protection Voters New Mexico and will continue to protect the rights of animals by promoting the humane treatment of all animals.”
~Deb Haaland, candidate for Governor of New Mexico
An Unparalleled Record of Working to Protect Animals
Before being appointed to Secretary of the Interior in 2021, Haaland served as U.S. Representative for New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District. While in Congress, she co-sponsored the PACT Act (H.R. 724—Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture Act passed in 2019), which made animal crushing, and videos featuring this extreme form of animal cruelty, a federal crime.
Haaland also co-sponsored the Big Cat Public Safety Act (passed in 2022), which revolutionized the legal landscape for big cats—such as tigers, lions, and cheetahs—in the U.S. by prohibiting the commercial practices responsible for their abuse and trafficking.
As Chair of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests & Public Lands (2019-2021), Haaland championed numerous key initiatives, including the Migratory Bird Protection Act, the Polar Bear Cub Survival Act, and the Preventing Future Pandemics Act targeting wildlife trafficking. Then as the 54th U.S. Secretary of the Interior (2021 to 2025), she oversaw the restoration of Endangered Species Act protections for gray wolves. Her years in public service show a deep commitment to the humane treatment of animals, preservation of endangered species, and responsible stewardship of public lands. Voters are encouraged to read more about Deb Haaland by visiting her campaign website.
All Animals in New Mexico Deserve Humane Treatment
Haaland, who recently rescued a puppy found in a parking lot, told us that as Governor, she will work to make New Mexico a state that protects and supports all animals. The pup, who she named Zia after the iconic Zia sun—has been traveling with her on the campaign trail. Haaland chose the name because the sacred symbol “reflects something special about New Mexico — the way we look out for one another and care for our communities.”
Meet Deb Haaland in Person at Laws & Paws in Santa Fe!
Voters are invited to meet Deb Haaland in person on April 11th at the Laws & Paws party at Rowley’s Farmhouse Ales celebrating legislative victories for animals. Guests will enjoy hand- crafted ales and appetizers while hearing directly from the candidate about her vision for New Mexico’s future.
Laws & Paws Event details:
April 11, 2026
12 Noon—3 PM
Location: Rowley’s Farmhouse Ales
Address: 1405 Maclovia St., Santa Fe 87505
Cost: FREE!
Space is limited—Please RSVP by registering here
Thank you for supporting APV and animal friendly candidates. We hope to see you on April 11th!
