Alamogordo, NM — Independent candidate for governor Pastor Gene Pettit (also referred to as Jean Pettit) is calling for a renewed focus on stronger family values, expanded business opportunities, and rolling back state policies he says harm working families. Pettit shared his platform during a recent interview on KALH Radio with Anthony Lucero. 

Pettit, a pastor based in the Radium Springs area, emphasized restoring freedoms and reconnecting families through faith-centered principles. “We want to reestablish a family connection… bring back our freedoms,” he said, criticizing legislation he believes is destroying families and eroding liberties. His approach includes reviewing and revising laws to create a “good moral sound foundation” that puts families first. 

A major focus of his campaign is addressing New Mexico’s job shortages and workforce challenges. Pettit proposes expanding economics, business, and trade education in high schools to instill an entrepreneurial mindset in young people. He advocates investing state resources in trade schools, supporting young entrepreneurs, and helping graduates launch businesses locally to retain talent and strengthen communities. 

Pettit also took aim at the state’s universal childcare program, calling it financially unsustainable. “That bill needs to go away,” he stated, arguing instead for targeted assistance to families with the greatest need rather than a blanket approach. 

The candidate is currently gathering signatures to qualify for the November 2026 general election ballot as an independent. He needs a minimum of approximately 4,000 valid signatures statewide (aiming for a cushion of around 4,500). Supporters can find petition information on his website. 

Perrit is scheduled to speak with voters in person tonight at 6 p.m. at Blended Nation Church, 498 McCombs Road in Chaparral. 

To learn more about his campaign, visit Gene4NM.com (or Jean4NM.com). The full streaming interview with Anthony Lucero is available here:

https://youtu.be/i6sz2iZyjJ0?si=cIma8pBvwTCwD_i3

Pettit’s independent run adds another voice to New Mexico’s 2026 gubernatorial race, which features established Democratic and Republican contenders. As an unaffiliated candidate, he faces the challenge of meeting strict signature requirements without major-party infrastructure, but he aims to appeal to voters seeking alternatives centered on family, freedom, and economic opportunity. Voters can evaluate his platform as signature gathering continues ahead of the filing deadline.

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