Every single family in New Mexico deserves access to fresh, nutritious food. Yet, too many of our neighbors, especially our kids and seniors still wonder where their next meal will come from. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a reality we must change. As your Governor, addressing food insecurity won’t just be a line item in a budget, it will be a top priority.

We need a comprehensive, common-sense approach to fix our food distribution systems and support our communities.

Here is my plan to ensure no New Mexican is left behind:

Supporting and Protecting SNAP

First and foremost, we must protect the foundation of our food assistance programs. I am fully committed to ensuring that SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) continues seamlessly and robustly across New Mexico. For thousands of working families, SNAP is a critical lifeline. I will fight any attempts to reduce these benefits and work to streamline the application process so that eligible families can get the support they need without unnecessary delays.

Cutting the Red Tape

Right now, bureaucratic hurdles make it incredibly difficult for local organizations, agricultural producers, and schools to coordinate and distribute food efficiently. We are going to cut through the state-level red tape. By simplifying administrative processes and modernizing our distribution networks, we can move food from farms and warehouses to kitchen tables faster and with less waste.

Incentivizing Business Donations

We have an incredible business community in New Mexico that wants to help, but the system doesn’t always make it easy. My administration will introduce targeted tax breaks for local grocery stores, restaurants, wholesalers, and agricultural businesses that donate their surplus, high-quality food to local food banks. Instead of letting good food go to waste, we will make it financially viable for businesses to feed their communities.

Direct Funding for Fully Stocked Food Banks

Our local food banks and pantries do heroic work every day, but they cannot rely on volunteer spirit and sporadic donations alone. I will work with the legislature to allocate dedicated state funds directly to our network of food banks. This funding will ensure their shelves are consistently and reliably stocked with healthy, fresh options year-round—not just during the holidays or times of crisis.

Food security is the foundation of public health, education, and economic stability. When our people are fed, our students learn better, our workforce is stronger, and our communities thrive. Together, we can build a stronger, healthier, and more resilient New Mexico.

Let's make it happen!