The Chile Wire

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/

Holding the Roundhouse Accountable with Elias Sisneros

What happens when a new generation of voices decides they’ve seen enough of the status quo in Santa Fe? This week on The Chile Wire, we sit down with rising influencer Elias Sisneros to discuss his journey into the heart of New Mexico politics and policymaking. Elias shares his candid concerns about the current direction of our state government and emphasizes the critical importance of holding elected officials accountable to the people they represent. We dive into his background, exploring the personal motivations that drove him to move from the sidelines to becoming a proactive force in the New Mexico political landscape. Inside the Episode:     •    Who is Elias Sisneros? Discover the "why" behind his involvement in NM politics and his mission to engage a broader audience in the legislative process.     •    The Santa Fe Perspective: A deep dive into the specific policy concerns and systemic issues Elias believes need immediate attention.     •    The Power of Accountability: Why transparency from our leaders is non-negotiable for the future of our state. Sneak Peek: The "Race to the Roundhouse" Debate Stick around for an exclusive first look at the upcoming Race to the Roundhouse debate. We discuss the inspiration behind this initiative and our goal of providing voters with a clear, unfiltered look at the candidates vying for leadership. We also address the news surrounding the event, including the decision by two Democrat gubernatorial candidates to decline the invitation to participate. What does this mean for voter education, and why is it more important than ever to have these bipartisan conversations? Listen now and stay informed on the issues shaping the Land of Enchantment. RSVP for Race to the Roundhouse: https://sfs.nucleuspages.com/events/race-to-the-roundhouse-registration

Faith in Action: Manny Lardizabal’s Path to Public Service

This week on The Chile Wire, we sit down with Lieutenant Governor candidate Manny Lardizabal for a conversation on faith, leadership, and the future of New Mexico. Manny shares his background as a ministry leader and small business owner and investor, offering insight into the experiences that have shaped his approach to public service. He also opens up about what motivated him to step into the race for lieutenant governor and the principles driving his campaign. We dive into some of New Mexico’s ongoing challenges and discuss the often-overlooked role of the lieutenant governor, particularly its responsibility as the state’s ombudsman. Manny explains why he believes the office can play a critical role in advocating for everyday New Mexicans and ensuring their voices are heard. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on leadership, service, and what it means to stand up for New Mexico. Fiscal Impact Report: https://www.nmlegis.gov/Sessions/22%20Regular/firs/SB0075.PDF Visit Manny's Website: https://www.manny4nm.com/