Haaland, Bregman face off in only Democratic governor debate

New Mexico's Democratic gubernatorial primary candidates, Deb Haaland and Sam Bregman, engaged in their sole debate in Albuquerque, largely disagreeing on environmental issues including data center development, fracking wastewater reuse, and the proposed acquisition of Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM) by Blackstone. The debate highlighted their contrasting views on economic development versus environmental protection. A focal point was the proposed 'Project Jupiter,' an artificial intelligence data center in Doña Ana County, which has drawn fierce scrutiny over its water consumption and emissions. Former U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland voiced strong opposition to data centers, asserting they do not serve community interests and suggesting alternative job creation through initiatives like affordable housing. Conversely, Second Judicial District Attorney Sam Bregman supported data centers, emphasizing their potential for job creation and clean energy acceleration, provided environmental protections are in place, such as using desalinated brackish water and preventing grid disruptions or energy cost increases for consumers. The candidates also touched upon the controversial Blackstone takeover of PNM and the cautious approach towards fracking wastewater reuse, with Haaland urging caution due to unknown chemical contents, while Bregman was more open to various forms of treated water reuse.