Zuni Pueblo joins other tribes in backing Haaland for governor

Zuni Pueblo leaders have endorsed Deb Haaland’s bid for the Democratic nomination for governor of New Mexico. Haaland, an enrolled member of Laguna Pueblo and the first Native American woman to lead the U.S. Department of the Interior, launched her campaign earlier this year.

The Zuni endorsement marks the fourth from New Mexico pueblos, following Jemez, Santo Domingo and Picuris. Other prominent Native figures, including former Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Taos Pueblo fashion designer Patricia Michaels have also voiced support.

Haaland faces Democratic rivals Sam Bregman and Ken Miyagashima. Sandia Pueblo and the Jicarilla Apache Nation have endorsed Bregman. The Democratic primary is set for June 2, 2026.

September 18, 2025