A key Indigenous tribe in New Mexico has announced it will not support former U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland in the Democratic primary for governor. Sandia Pueblo, located north of Albuquerque, endorsed Haaland’s opponent, prosecutor Sam Bregman, citing confidence in his commitment to tribal sovereignty and important water and irrigation policies. Although Sandia Pueblo has around 500 members, it operates one of the state’s largest casinos and plays a significant role in the region’s entertainment and commerce.
Bregman, who is a district attorney and father of Red Sox third baseman Alex Bregman, is competing against Haaland in a closely watched 2026 Democratic primary. New Mexico is a heavily Democratic state with a large Hispanic population and significant Native American voting blocs that could influence election outcomes. Sandia Pueblo Governor Felix Chaves praised Bregman for consistently showing up for Native American communities, while Haaland’s campaign has yet to comment on the endorsement. Political consultants note that Haaland’s campaign has struggled to deliver a clear message to voters, particularly on issues like education, where New Mexico ranks poorly. This development highlights the fact that Native American voters in the state are not a unified group, and Haaland faces challenges in securing broad tribal support.