What's At Stake
Why Our State Land Is Under Threat
Why Our State Land Is Under Threat
Why Our State Land Is Under Threat
New Mexico’s public lands belong to all of us, but they’re increasingly being targeted by powerful outside interests who see them as nothing more than a resource to be stripped for profit. Over the last decade, we’ve seen renewed attempts, especially under the Trump administration, to roll back environmental safeguards, weaken oversight, and hand control of public lands to corporate developers, oil and gas companies, and political insiders.
These attacks are often framed as beneficial economic development, but in reality they threaten the integrity of our public lands and the very revenue streams that fund our schools and public institutions. Without strong, experienced leadership here at home, we risk shortchanging future generations for the sake of minor short term gains.
What Happens If We Get This Wrong?
Why Our State Land Is Under Threat
Why Our State Land Is Under Threat
Without proper oversight:
- Oil and gas interests could lease trust lands at bargain prices, robbing our schools of hundreds of millions in revenue.
- Environmental regulations could be ignored or dismantled, threatening the quality of our air, water, and soil.
- Proper Tribal consultations might not occur and cultural sites could be disrupted.
- Long-term value could be sacrificed for unsustainable extraction and unchecked development.
That’s why this race matters. The Commissioner of Public Lands is one of the most impactful positions in New Mexico state government. Experienced leadership can mean millions more for public education, stronger partnerships with Tribal Nations, and better protections for our land, air, and water.
What’s the Alternative?
Why Our State Land Is Under Threat
What’s the Alternative?
We can grow revenue AND protect our future, but only with bold, principled, and experienced leadership.
This means:
- Competitive royalty rates to ensure fair returns for the public
- Embracing conservation and expanding clean energy
- Diversifying revenue sources with responsible land use to benefit the State Trust Land beneficiaries
- Collaborating closely with Tribal governments to preserve sacred sites and shared stewardship
- Defending our public lands from privatization efforts and backroom deals
Matthew McQueen has the land, legal, and legislative experience to keep our public lands in public hands, and make them work for every New Mexican.