A Democratic New Mexico lawmaker has been criticized for his shift in stance on energy production, going from advocating for a reduction in fossil fuels to embracing an "all of the above" approach.
Rep. Gabriel Vasquez, D-N.M., was quoted in a 2021 interview calling for his state to transition away from energy production, which accounts for almost a third of the state’s general fund.
At the time, Vasquez mentioned the importance of electrifying government and residential developments, as well as limiting the use of fossil fuels and replacing them with electric power.
However, in his most recent campaign materials, Vasquez has taken a different stance, citing high prices and supporting all forms of energy, including oil and gas.
Vasquez's campaign claims that he stands by his current position, which includes an all-of-the-above energy approach to diversify the economy and bring more jobs to New Mexico.
Energy production in the Permian Basin, one of the world's largest oil and gas regions, employs a large number of people in New Mexico and brings in $13.1 billion in total revenue annually.
His challenger, Greg Cunningham, a former law enforcement agent, believes that Vasquez's stance on energy production is hypocritical and that he is prioritizing ideology over the needs of the state.
Cunningham argues that energy production is essential to New Mexico's economy and that Vasquez's policies would harm the state's workforce and economy.
