Haaland Slams GOP Efforts to Sell Public Lands as Current Interior Secretary Arrives in New Mexico
LAS CRUCES, NM – Today, Deb Haaland, former Secretary of the Interior and candidate for New Mexico Governor, slammed GOP efforts to sell public lands as Trump Interior Secretary Doug Burgum arrives in New Mexico. President Trump’s disastrous tax-and-spending bill would make 14 million acres of public lands in New Mexico eligible to be sold to the highest bidder.
“This move is deceitful. By selling our public lands, Donald Trump and his administration threaten to damage New Mexico’s economy and our way of life. These lands help provide sustenance, jobs, and billions for New Mexico’s economy,” said Deb Haaland. “Doug Burgum should answer to New Mexicans while he visits our state and explain why he prioritizes corporate greed over New Mexico’s wellbeing.”
New Mexico’s outdoor recreation industry significantly contributes to the state’s economy, generating $3.2 billion in value added in 2023 and supporting more than 29,000 jobs. The Trump Administration’s attacks on public lands would put those jobs at risk and devastate rural communities in New Mexico.