Pope’s Bid Falters as Garcia Richard Emerges | Santa Fe News

Harold Pope’s longshot lieutenant governor bid in New Mexico just got a lot tougher after Maggie Toulouse Oliver’s withdrawal due to health issues — opening the door for Stephanie Garcia Richard, backed by Gov. nominee Deb Haaland. Though Pope campaigned with grit and integrity, Garcia Richard, a seasoned public lands commissioner with strong endorsements and political momentum, is now the heavy favorite to win the Democratic State Central Committee’s vote — even as New Mexico debates whether the lieutenant governor role truly matters. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/22eaa2275e8389dc