Oil Interests Fund New Mexico Candidate Campaigns
Candidates Michael Perry and Juan de Jesus Sanchez report varying levels of oil and gas sector financial support.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Oil and Gas
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Republican candidate Michael Perry raised over $250,000 from oil and gas industry interests, while Democrat Juan de Jesus Sanchez received $40,000 from the same sector. These contributions represent a significant portion of the total campaign funds for both New Mexico candidates.
Why it matters
The influence of energy sector funding in state elections highlights the divergent policy priorities of candidates regarding the state's natural resources and land management. These campaign finances reflect competing visions for New Mexico as the state balances traditional energy production with renewable development.
Michael Perry raised $455,000 in total funds, with more than $250,000 sourced from oil and gas companies and associated interests. Juan de Jesus Sanchez reported $525,000 in total fundraising, including $40,000 from major oil corporations.
The players
Michael Perry
He is a Republican candidate for office who operates a land restoration business called Wildlife Habitat Prescriptions.
Juan de Jesus Sanchez
He is a Democratic candidate for office who was raised in Valencia County and Socorro County.
Devon Energy
This is a petroleum and natural gas exploration and production company that contributed to both candidates.
The details
Michael Perry's donors are concentrated in the oil, gas, and ranching interests of southeastern New Mexico, while Juan de Jesus Sanchez counts renewable energy developers such as NextEra Energy among his contributors. Sanchez has also accepted funding from environmental advocacy groups and has proposed protections for Chaco Canyon.
Timeline
A PAC ran ads supporting Juan de Jesus Sanchez during the 2026 primary election.
Market Landscape
The divide in financial support reflects a broader industry competition between legacy oil production and the expanding renewable energy sector in New Mexico. This split positions candidates between the traditional economic base of southeastern counties and emerging green energy development.
Voters should consider how these donor backgrounds may shape future state policies on land use, environmental regulations, and energy taxes. The choice between candidates could lead to significant changes in local industry priorities and the protection of natural landscapes.
The takeaway
Campaign contributions often serve as an indicator of a candidate's future priorities regarding state legislation and regulatory oversight. Voters can research these donor lists to better understand which industries are backing specific policy platforms.
Further reading
Learn more about the state's energy sector at the New Mexico Oil and Gas section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by New Mexico In Depth.
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