Greg Cunningham leverages Hispanic background in New Mexico congressional race
Greg Cunningham, a Marine combat veteran and former police officer, is the Republican candidate for New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District, a seat currently held by Democratic Rep. Gabe Vasquez. Cunningham became the default GOP nominee after his only primary challenger dropped out in April, making him the first new Republican candidate for the district since 2018. The district voted for President Donald Trump in 2024 but sent a Democrat to Congress, and the Cook Political Report rates it as “leans Democratic” with a D+0 rating. Cunningham is focusing on his Hispanic ties and military and law enforcement background to appeal to the district’s Hispanic community, which he describes as culturally conservative. He cites his experience with crime and narcotics as relevant to ongoing challenges in the region, even as illegal immigration levels have dropped. Cunningham stated he must convince voters that a Republican can win the seat.
What’s reported
Greg Cunningham is the Republican candidate for New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District.
The seat is held by Rep. Gabe Vasquez, a Democrat.
The district voted for Donald Trump in 2024 but elected a Democrat to Congress.
Cook Political Report rates the district as “leans Democratic” with a D+0 rating.
Cunningham became the default candidate after a primary challenger dropped out in April.
He is the first new GOP candidate in the district since 2018; former Rep. Yvette Herrell was the previous candidate and lost by 4.2% in 2024.
Cunningham is a Marine reconnaissance combat veteran, former Albuquerque police officer, DEA task force officer, and worked in undercover roles and private security.
New Mexico is roughly 50% Hispanic, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Cunningham believes Hispanic culture is conservative and hopes to appeal to family, culture, and faith values.
Key figures
Greg Cunningham – GOP candidate for New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District, Marine combat veteran, former police officer and DEA task force officer
Rep. Gabe Vasquez – Democratic incumbent for the district
Former Rep. Yvette Herrell – previous GOP candidate who lost in 2024
Sources: foxnews.com
