Land Commissioner: Jonas Moya (D)
Candidate Q&A
Name: Jonas Moya
Political Party: Democratic
Age: 35
Education: B.S. in Agricultural Economics and Business, New Mexico State University
Occupation: Rancher, small business owner, former USDA Farm Service Agency State Executive Director
City of Residence: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Campaign Website:
How has your background prepared you to serve as New Mexico鈥檚 land commissioner?
I am a fourth-generation New Mexican, rancher and former USDA FSA State Executive Director, I鈥檝e worked directly with farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. I understand land management, energy, and agriculture. My experience brings practical leadership focused on balancing revenue generation with responsible stewardship for New Mexico鈥檚 future.
If elected, how would you seek to maximize revenue for schools, universities and other state trust land beneficiaries?
I would focus on strong management, accountability, and diversification. Oil and gas will continue, but we should also grow revenue through renewable energy, transmission, geothermal, outdoor recreation, agriculture, and responsible economic development. The goal is to protect the land while increasing long-term, stable revenue for schools, hospitals, and other beneficiaries.
Would you support or oppose efforts to expand renewable energy installations on state trust land?
I support expanding renewable energy on state trust land when projects are responsibly sited, benefit local communities, and deliver strong returns for trust beneficiaries. New Mexico can lead in renewables, but development must be thoughtful and balanced, respecting agriculture, wildlife, water resources, and existing land users across our state.
Given the legacy of Jeffrey Epstein鈥檚 Zorro Ranch in New Mexico, would you propose any changes to how the State Land Office handles and regulates applications for grazing leases?
That situation showed the need for stronger oversight and transparency. Grazing is part of our culture and economy, but every leaseholder should be held accountable. I support clearer standards, better review processes, and regular inspections to ensure state trust lands are managed responsibly and in the public鈥檚 interest.
Do you support or oppose the state鈥檚 current oil and gas royalty rate structure? If elected, would you seek to make any changes to the current royalty rates?
New Mexico recently increased top royalty rates to 25% on prime state lands to ensure taxpayers receive fair value. I support that approach. I鈥檒l continue to evaluate performance, but my priority is maximizing revenue for schools while keeping jobs and investment here.
What would your approach to potential land swaps be? In addition, what criteria would you use to evaluate such transactions?
Land swaps should only happen if they clearly benefit the trust. I would evaluate fair market value, long-term revenue potential, water access, conservation value, and community impact. These decisions must be transparent, well-justified, and focused on improving how we manage state trust lands for future generations.
Have you or your business, if you are a business owner, ever been the subject of any state or federal tax liens?
No
Have you ever been arrested for, charged with, or convicted of drunken driving, any misdemeanor or any felony in New Mexico or any other state? If so, explain.
No
Have you ever been involved in a personal or business bankruptcy proceeding?
No