Primary Profile: Duke Rodriguez for Governor

Primary Profile: Duke Rodriguez for Governor

One week before New Mexico’s June 2 primary, Abe Baldonado sits down with gubernatorial candidate Duke Rodriguez for a wide-ranging conversation on the issues shaping the race for governor. From crime and healthcare to education, homelessness and government spending, Rodriguez shares why he believes New Mexico is “not a poor state, but a poorly run state” and outlines the reforms he says are needed to change the state’s trajectory. The two dive into the failures of status quo leadership, the growing dependence on government programs, the healthcare workforce crisis, and the connection between poverty, addiction, mental health and crime. Rodriguez also reflects on his own upbringing in government housing, his experience leading healthcare systems in New Mexico, and why he believes voters are hungry for solutions over political talking points. Visit Duke's website: https://runwithduke.com/

On the Frontlines of Healthcare: Jahnelle Garcia Steps Up

This week on The Chile Wire, we sit down with Jahnelle Garcia, a nurse practitioner, small business owner, and candidate for House District 27, to talk about what led her to step into the political arena and run for office in this year’s election. Drawing from her experience in healthcare and business, Garcia shares a firsthand perspective on the challenges facing New Mexico families and why she believes change is needed at the state level. The conversation highlights concerns around the rising cost of living, the strain on small businesses, and ongoing issues within the healthcare system—including provider shortages and the broader impact of medical malpractice laws. Garcia also reflects on what she sees as a lack of accountability in Santa Fe and the importance of bringing community voices into policy decisions. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the need for greater voter engagement, encouraging New Mexicans to take an active role in shaping the direction of the state. As the election approaches, this discussion offers a closer look at one candidate’s vision and the issues driving conversations across District 27 and beyond. Visit Jahnelle's Website: https://www.jahnellefornm.com/

Primary Profile: Doug Turner for Governor

What does it take to turn frustration into action—and can a business-minded approach help reshape New Mexico’s future? This week on The Chile Wire we sit down with Republican gubernatorial candidate Doug Turner to discuss his roots in Albuquerque, his career in business and public affairs, and why he’s stepping into the 2026 race for governor. Turner shares how his experience as a business owner and charter school leader has shaped his perspective on the state’s biggest challenges—from lagging education outcomes to barriers facing small businesses and a growing sense of concern around crime. The conversation explores what he sees as a lack of progress in key areas and why he believes a new approach to leadership is needed in Santa Fe. Inside the Episode:  • A New Mexican’s Perspective: Growing up in Albuquerque and how decades of experience in business and politics led Turner to run for governor.  • Education & School Choice: Tackling literacy rates, ending social promotion, and expanding options for families.  • Crime & Behavioral Health: Addressing repeat offenders, rebuilding mental health systems, and improving public safety statewide.  • Economic Growth: Supporting small businesses, reducing tax burdens, and creating opportunities that keep New Mexicans in the state. As the 2026 governor’s race heats up, this episode offers insight into another candidate aiming to bring change to New Mexico. Tune in and stay informed on the issues shaping the state’s future. Visit Doug's Website: https://www.turnerfornm.com/

Primary Profile: Gregg Hull for Governor

What does it take to lead one of New Mexico’s fastest-growing cities—and can that leadership translate statewide? This week on The Chile Wire, we sit down with former Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull, a 2026 gubernatorial candidate, to discuss his path from small business owner to public office and his vision for the future of New Mexico. Former Mayor Hull shares how his experience in the private sector and over a decade as mayor has shaped his approach to public safety, infrastructure, and fiscal responsibility. We dive into the key issues facing New Mexico, from rising crime and struggling education outcomes to the need for stronger economic development across both rural and urban communities. Inside the Episode:  • A Leader’s Journey: How Hull went from running a business to leading New Mexico’s third-largest city—and why he’s now running for governor.  • Public Safety & Accountability: His focus on building safe communities and ensuring taxpayer dollars deliver real results.  • Education Reform: Addressing early literacy, ending social promotion, and expanding career pathways for students.  • Growing New Mexico’s Economy: Creating opportunity that keeps families in-state while respecting the unique needs of each community. As the 2026 governor’s race continues to take shape, this episode offers a closer look at one of the candidates aiming to bring a new approach to leadership in Santa Fe. Tune in and stay informed on the issues shaping New Mexico’s future. Visit Gregg's Website: https://gregghull.com/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23820725507&gbraid=0AAAABDBzYpFlbPK4gX4ht67rU_-VxH0Q0&gclid=CjwKCAjwwpDQBhAuEiwAa-4Wo2y6qWlxxcIT9NOq8Bhggb62V7XATfaUwBe9ZAjTLescD_r55i4paxoCMHYQAvD_BwE

From the Frontlines to D.C. | A Conversation with Greg Cunningham

This week on The Chile Wire, we sit down with Greg Cunningham, a candidate for New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District, to explore the man behind the campaign. Greg joins us to discuss how his decades of service—first as a decorated Marine Corps combat veteran and later as a detective with the Albuquerque Police Department—have shaped his perspective on leadership and public safety. We dive into the personal motivations that led him to transition from the streets of Albuquerque to the political arena, and why he believes now is the time for a new brand of representation in our nation's capital. In this episode, we discuss:     •    Life of Service: How Greg’s experiences in the military and law enforcement inform his approach to policy and problem-solving.     •    The Motivation to Lead: The specific challenges facing CD2—from economic hurdles to community safety—that inspired Greg to enter the race.     •    New Mexico Values: What it means to ensure the unique culture and priorities of New Mexicans are heard and respected in Washington D.C.     •    Bipartisan Dialogue: Navigating the current political climate to find common-sense solutions for the Land of Enchantment. Whether you are a resident of the 2nd District or simply interested in the future of New Mexico's political landscape, this conversation offers a deep look at one of the key figures in this year's election cycle. Visit Greg's website: https://www.cunninghamfornm.com/ Campaign video: https://www.instagram.com/p/DVv3-zujXTK/