Ken Miyagishima Switches to Independent Run for New Mexico Governor After Meeting Signature Goals

Alamogordo, NM – In a move that underscores his commitment to bridging divides and drawing on personal ties across southern New Mexico, former Las Cruces Mayor Ken Gallegos Miyagishima announced on February 1, 2026, that he will run as an independent candidate for governor in the November 3, 2026, general election.

Miyagishima, who had entered the race as a Democratic candidate and was set to compete in the June 2 Democratic primary against contenders like former U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland and Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman, revealed he has collected about 4,000 petition signatures so far. Rather than continue in the primary, he is opting for an independent path to appeal directly to voters weary of partisan gridlock—particularly emphasizing his lifelong connections to communities like Alamogordo.

Raised partly in Alamogordo during his youth, Miyagishima attended North Elementary School here before his family moved to Las Cruces in 1971. His grandparents owned businesses in the city and are commemorated on the Founders Park murals at 10th and White Sands Boulevard—a point he has shared in local interviews, noting how the community helped shape his values of service and unity.

“I’ve been reflecting on our political scene, both in New Mexico and across the nation,” Miyagishima said. “The divisions and constant fighting are holding us back from addressing the real issues we face. Moving forward requires us to come together, regardless of party lines. By becoming an independent candidate, I aim to foster a political environment that embraces fresh ideas and encourages community involvement.”

He stressed that New Mexicans are seeking practical, local-focused leadership: “If New Mexico wants more hyper-partisan national politics, they have options. If they want a Governor for all the people all the time, I’m here.”

Miyagishima pointed to priorities gathered from conversations with Democrats, Independents, and others statewide:

• Medical malpractice reform

• Accessible and affordable healthcare

• Education reform

• Crime reduction

• Homelessness solutions with dignity

• Debt reduction solutions for citizens

“My aim is to create a platform that truly represents and unites everyone, not just a select few,” he said. “I will appoint Democrats, Republicans, and Independents—because New Mexico deserves competence, not loyalty tests.”

His decision reflects his track record of non-partisan service: 30 years in public life, including 22 years in non-partisan roles as a Las Cruces City Councilman and four-term mayor (2007–2023). “I was elected by Democrats, Republicans, and Independents alike, and I have served them all to the best of my ability, regardless of political affiliation,” he added.

Miyagishima’s local ties extend to recent involvement in Alamogordo politics. Last year, he endorsed Sharon McDonald in the municipal race, praising her as an exceptional candidate. McDonald went on to win in a historic victory, becoming the city’s mayor-elect in November 2025 as the third female mayor and first person of color in that role.

To qualify for the ballot as an independent, Miyagishima must gather over 14,000 valid signatures from registered voters—a threshold based on state law (3% of votes cast for governor in the prior election). Petitions become available in March 2026, with filing required soon after the primary. He expressed strong confidence in meeting the goal.

Boosting his campaign, Miyagishima received an endorsement last weekend from the Forward Party. He noted interest in affiliating with them if they qualify as a minor party this spring, which could halve the signature requirement.

“My run as an independent will require over 14,000 signatures to gain ballot access. I am confident I can do that,” he concluded. “I was endorsed last weekend by the Forward Party and if they gain party status this Spring, I would be interested in running as their candidate since our values are aligned and that affiliation would half my signature requirements.”

Miyagishima’s shift highlights growing calls for centrist, unity-driven options in New Mexico politics, especially from voters in areas like Otero County where he maintains deep family and personal roots.

For more information on Ken Miyagishima’s campaign, visit www.kenfornewmexico.com. This story continues to develop as the 2026 gubernatorial race heats up.

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