Voter Concerns Take Center Stage in Gubernatorial Race
Access to healthcare has emerged as a major concern for voters ahead of New Mexico’s Decision 2026 gubernatorial election, according to KOB 4. The station traveled across the state to listen to residents about the issues they want the state's next governor to address.
The station sent Investigative Reporter Ryan Laughlin into communities to hear directly from residents and bring their concerns to the candidates seeking the governorship. Both gubernatorial candidates were invited to participate in a debate on Oct. 8 at 6 p.m. on KOB 4.
Personal Stories Highlight Systemic Challenges
In Gallup, resident William Henderson shared his experiences with the state's medical infrastructure. Henderson is currently receiving end-of-life care in Albuquerque and stated he wants the next governor to address challenges facing rural hospitals and patients.
"To make it better, and you know be a hospital like it used to be," Henderson said.
KOB 4 Investigates first reported on Henderson’s medical journey in 2023 after he sought treatment at Rehoboth McKinley Christian Hospital for heart problems. Henderson said staff at the hospital "just gave me a shot and sent me home," which led to emergency bypass surgery at UNM Hospital two days later.
Physician Recruitment Remains a Critical Obstacle
Conversations in Gallup reflect a broader challenge regarding how to improve access to care in rural communities struggling with provider shortages, hospital instability, and long travel distances for specialized treatment. Dr. Lawrence Andrade, a former family physician in Gallup, stated that recruiting and retaining doctors remains one of the biggest obstacles facing rural New Mexico.
"Basically, nobody really wants to practice in a rural area," Andrade said.
Andrade previously operated a family medicine practice where he and his wife saw around 9,000 patients before leaving New Mexico. He said he cannot vote in the election but is following it because of its potential impact on healthcare policy and his desire to return home.
Legislative Reforms and Candidate Questions
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed legislation earlier this year placing limits on punitive damages for medical malpractice. Supporters argue the recent medical malpractice reforms could make New Mexico more attractive to physicians and specialists.
Andrade noted that it was "really, really risky to practice medicine in New Mexico." He asked candidates if the malpractice reforms that went into place are going to be safe.