President Donald Trump has endorsed Republican Greg Cunningham in the race for New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District, giving his backing to the former U.S. Marine and Albuquerque Police Department detective in one of the closely watched congressional contests of the 2026 election.
In an endorsement video, Trump described Cunningham as a retired Marine who served in combat and later spent more than two decades with the Albuquerque Police Department. Trump urged voters in the district to support Cunningham and praised his background in military service and law enforcement.
Trump said Cunningham would support policies focused on border security, American energy production, lower taxes and Second Amendment rights. The endorsement also highlighted public safety and energy policy as important issues in the congressional contest.
Cunningham is running against Democratic incumbent Gabe Vasquez. The race is considered highly competitive, with both candidates presenting different positions on the economy, public safety, border policy and the role of the federal government.
Trump also criticized Vasquez in his endorsement message, making several claims about the Democrat’s positions on policing, taxes and New Mexico’s oil and gas industry. These statements represent Trump’s campaign criticism of his political opponent and should be viewed in that context.
The endorsement adds national attention to the New Mexico race. Cunningham has previously received support from other Republican figures, while Vasquez is seeking another term representing the district.
The contest is expected to remain closely watched as voters decide between Cunningham and Vasquez ahead of the November 2026 general election. The outcome could also have significance for the broader balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives.