Belen, NM – The Republican Party of New Mexico’s State Central Committee (SCC) is scheduled to meet Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Calvary Chapel Rio Grande Valley (19381 Highway 314, Belen, NM) for a public meeting focused on electing a new State Party Chair.

The event, promoted by Valencia County Republican Party Chair John Brenna and the Republican Party of Valencia County Group, runs from 9 AM to 2 PM. It is open to the public (including proxies), with a pre-paid lunch option available for $25. Organizers emphasize the need for full SCC member attendance and describe the vote as a secret ballot. 

Background and Recent Developments

This meeting is the latest development in months of internal conflict within the New Mexico Republican Party, including legal battles over ousted Chair Amy Barela. A judge ordered Barela to step down due to alleged violations of party rules (filing for re-election to her Otero County Commission seat while serving as chair in a contested primary). Appeals, including to the New Mexico Supreme Court, have been denied or are ongoing, leading to calls for a special SCC meeting to elect a permanent replacement. 

As of mid-June 2026, multiple candidates had entered the race to replace Barela, who was also seeking re-election as chair:

•  Amy Barela (ousted chair, seeking re-election).

•  Robert Aragon (Albuquerque attorney and SCC member).

•  John Brenna (Valencia County Republican Party Chair).

•  Brandon Vogt (conservative radio host). 

Zac Anaya dropped out of the chair race shortly after announcements, reportedly to avoid splitting the anti-Barela vote among northern New Mexico candidates. Aragon and Brenna met to consolidate support and determine who had the strongest chance against Barela. 

The SCC vote is expected to be a closed-door or secret ballot process among roughly 500 party officials statewide. Earlier attempts to hold such a meeting faced quorum issues in Las Cruces. 

Significance for NM Republicans

The election comes after the June 2 primary and amid broader party challenges, including unity efforts ahead of the November general election. Critics have highlighted issues like transparency, regional representation (e.g., northern vs. southern New Mexico influence), and adherence to party bylaws. 

Valencia County’s role in hosting, via local chair John Brenna, underscores county-level involvement in resolving the leadership vacuum. Attendees and proxies are encouraged to participate to help “finish this” and provide stable leadership. 

For more details or to RSVP, check the event on Facebook or contact Valencia County GOP organizers. Updates on the outcome are expected from local outlets and party channels following the Saturday meeting.

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