Lujan Grisham wins New Mexico Governor race

Democratic Congresswoman Michelle Lujan Grisham has won election as governor of New Mexico to succeed a two-term Republican amid simmering conflicts over struggling public schools and high poverty rates.

The reins of state government will pass from one Latina to another as termed-out Gov. Susana Martinez leaves office.

Lujan Grisham has been a leading critic in Congress of President Donald Trump’s policies on immigration.

The 59-year-old former state health secretary defeated Republican Rep. Steve Pearce in a campaign focused on expanding preschool education, lowering crime rates and reducing poverty.

Lujan Grisham is embracing new investment in solar and wind energy and has pledged to comply with a court order to help poor and minority students.