Summary
A Native American tribe in New Mexico, Sandia Pueblo, decided to support Sam Bregman, not Deb Haaland, in the Democratic primary for governor. This is significant because Haaland is Laguna Pueblo and was previously supported by Native Americans when she was confirmed as U.S. Interior Secretary.
Key Facts
- Sandia Pueblo, a tribe in New Mexico, endorsed Sam Bregman for governor.
- Deb Haaland, a member of the Laguna Pueblo, is running against Bregman.
- Sandia Pueblo has about 500 members but runs one of the state's largest casinos.
- The tribe believes Bregman will respect their sovereignty and support water policies.
- Native American voters in New Mexico can influence election outcomes.
- New Mexico has the highest percentage of Hispanic residents in the U.S.
- Haaland faced conflicts with the Navajo Nation over federal policies.
- As Interior Secretary, Haaland received criticism for avoiding media interactions.