Michael Perry, a Chaves County Commissioner with two decades of experience in natural resource management, officially announced his campaign Monday for the Republican nomination for New Mexico Commissioner of Public Lands. Perry currently serves as Vice-Chair of the Chaves County Commission and is a member of the Public Lands Committee for the National Association of Counties.
“The land in New Mexico is in my blood,” Perry said. “I’ve protected it, fought for it and managed it for over two decades. I’m running because New Mexico deserves a Land Commissioner who knows the land, respects the people, and understands the responsibility.”
A Roswell native and New Mexico State University alumnus, Perry worked 21 years for the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish, ultimately rising to Major of Southern Field Operations. He later served as Assistant Land Commissioner under Aubrey Dunn, where he oversaw the Field Division and contributed to the responsible management of millions of acres of state land.
“As Assistant Land Commissioner, I gained a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face,” Perry said. “This office plays a vital role in funding our schools, protecting our natural resources, and supporting industries like agriculture, oil and gas, and outdoor recreation. I’ll bring balance, experience, and leadership to that mission.”
Perry currently owns and operates Wildlife and Habitat Prescriptions, a consulting firm specializing in sustainable land use. He and his wife, Kimberly, reside in Roswell and are active in their community.
“I’ve served in the field, in the Roundhouse, and in the State Land Office,” Perry said. “Now, I’m ready to serve as Commissioner—to keep public lands productive, protected, and working for all New Mexicans.”
While Perry is the first Republican to enter the field of candidates for the 2026 election, Rep. Matthew McQueen, Jonas Moya, a Tucumcari rancher and former Biden-appointed state director for the Farm Service Agency, and Juan Sanchez, a former natural resource specialist for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are vying for the Democratic nomination.
