State Representative Matthew McQueen announced Monday his candidacy for New Mexico Commissioner of Public Lands, positioning himself as the candidate with the deepest experience to manage the state's $2 billion land management agency.
The six-term legislator and conservation attorney enters the 2026 race with current Commissioner Stephanie Garcia Richard term-limited and pursuing the lieutenant governor's office, leaving the powerful position open for the first time since 2018.
McQueen chairs the House Energy, Environment & Natural Resources Committee and has spent his career working on the complex intersection of land management, conservation, and revenue generation that defines the Land Commissioner role1. As an attorney, he has specialized in land conservation, real property transactions, and housing development, while previously serving as Director of Land Conservation for both the Santa Fe Conservation Trust and Taos Land Trust1.
"The job of Commissioner of Public Lands is an important and complex responsibility," McQueen said in announcing his candidacy. "I have dedicated my career to this intricate and complex field of work"1.
The Galisteo Democrat has led legislative efforts to increase oil and gas royalty rates, with similar legislation advancing further than ever in 2024 by passing the full House of Representatives12. He also championed Roxy's Law in 2021, banning traps and snares on public lands, and has worked to reform the state's wildlife management system1.
The New Mexico State Land Office manages 9 million surface acres and 13 million mineral acres across every county, generating revenue through oil and gas leases, renewable energy projects, agriculture, and recreation1. The office operates as what McQueen called "the largest real estate firm in the state," with 95 percent of its revenue funding public education, including schools, universities, and specialized institutions1.
The trust lands were allocated to New Mexico under federal acts from 1898 and 1910, creating a unique revenue stream that has become increasingly valuable as oil and gas production in the Permian Basin has surged1.
Garcia Richard, who announced her lieutenant governor bid in March, will complete her second term in December 20261. The Democratic primary is scheduled for June 2, 2026, with the general election November 32.
McQueen, who represents parts of Santa Fe and Sandoval counties, was first elected to the legislature in 20142. "We need strong leaders here at home at all levels of government to protect hard-working New Mexicans," he said2.
