Land Commissioner: Juan Sanchez (D)
Candidate Q&A
Name: Juan Sanchez
Political Party: Democrat
Age: 34
Education: Bachelor's Political Science/pre-law, New Mexico Highlands University; Masters of Water Resources, University of New Mexico (in progress)
Occupation: Natural Resource, Comms, and Political Consultant
City of Residence: Los Chavez
Campaign Website:
How has your background prepared you to serve as New Mexico鈥檚 land commissioner?
I grew up working cattle on my family鈥檚 ranch which including state trust land. I鈥檝e managed public lands and natural resources with the Army Corps of Engineers, and with the NM Acequia Commission; and I working for Senator Martin Heinrich. That lived and professional experience prepared me for this office.
If elected, how would you seek to maximize revenue for schools, universities and other state trust land beneficiaries?
I will grow revenue by expanding renewable energy, including geothermal, and strengthening our outdoor economy through increased access and recreation. I鈥檒l invest in land restoration to protect long-term productivity and ensure our lands continue generating reliable funding and enjoyment for our kids, our schools and our public institutions for generations.
Would you support or oppose efforts to expand renewable energy installations on state trust land?
I support responsible expansion of renewable energy, including solar, wind, transmission, and geothermal. These projects provide steady, long-term funding for our schools while helping diversify our economy and ensuring more clean energy for us to rely on.
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?
We must strengthen transparency and accountability in leasing decisions. I support clearer vetting, stronger oversight, and placing more staff in offices across the state to better monitor lands and stay connected to communities. State lands must reflect our values and uphold the highest ethical standards.
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?
I support the recent legislation allowing the SLO to charge up to 25% royalty rate on our most productive lands. This ensures we receive a fair return, that helps fund our schools. The current Land Commissioner helped push this through, it will make a huge difference in our children's future.
What would your approach to potential land swaps be? In addition, what criteria would you use to evaluate such transactions?
Land swaps must reflect strong community input and long-term benefit. I will prioritize protecting cultural resources, access, and traditional ways of life, while evaluating both monetary value and long-term public benefit. Decisions must serve local communities and ensure our lands are stewarded responsibly 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