IPANM (Nov. 6, 2025) – The nomination of former U.S. Representative Steve Pearce (NM CD-02) will benefit all New Mexicans, as the Trump Administration continues to open up valuable federal lands for safe and responsible oil & gas development.  IPANM Executive Director Jim Winchester offers the following comment on Pearce’s nomination:

“At time when New Mexico state policymakers and regulators are pushing through a half-dozen new, anti-oil & gas administrative regulations to further stifle oil & gas development on state lands, IPANM members welcome Steve Pearce’s strong experience and leadership that will encourage growth for the industry on the state’s federal lands.

“Just this week, a half-dozen small oil & gas business owners testified in state rulemaking that they are purposefully leaving state lands in New Mexico to either work on federal lands or work in other states altogether citing an unfriendly and unworkable state business climate.

“In stark contrast, the Trump administration’s selection Steve Pearce will further bring pragmatism and meaningful reforms to federal regulations that highlight how safe and responsible oil & gas production leads to human flourishing in all walks of life in New Mexico and the world.”