ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KFOX14/CBS4) — Sam Bregman, the district attorney in Albuquerque, has announced he's running for governor of New Mexico, emphasizing his commitment to addressing crime, education, economic opportunity, and health care.
"New Mexico is an amazing place and I want to see people be able to live up to their full potential in a state that is so wonderful," Bregman said.
Bregman described himself as a "moderate, pro-business Democrat" and outlined his priorities for the state.
On crime, Bregman highlighted his experience as the district attorney and chairman of the organized crime commission.
"Nobody should be living in a neighborhood where they don't feel safe. That's unacceptable," Bregman said.
Bregman vowed to "clean this state up" and ensure that residents feel secure in their communities.
Addressing education, Bregman pointed to the state's high rates of chronic absenteeism.
"We need to do everything we can to be working with families, making sure that parents are getting their kids to school," Bregman said.
Bregman emphasized the importance of accountability for teachers, students, and the education system as a whole.
Bregman also discussed his experience with crime in Albuquerque, noting issues such as fentanyl and drug trafficking, violent crime, and the "revolving door" of the criminal justice system.
"We need to make sure we have a criminal justice system that is working," Bregman said, advocating for holding violent offenders until trial.
When asked what New Mexico needs from its next governor, Bregman responded, Strong leadership. Someone that gets stuff done.
Bregman expressed his desire to extend the progress made in Albuquerque to the entire state, saying, "I think we need someone who gets it done."