"A little-known political race in New Mexico is drawing big money and attention from national environmental groups, and oil, gas and mining interests, in the lead-up to next week's midterm elections.
The race for the state's next land commissioner, a position that oversees an area larger than 9 U.S. states, is viewed as crucial to determining the state's energy future. And it could have an even wider impact on the region's economy and the global climate.
As head of the State Land Office, the commissioner manages 9 million acres of state trust lands, approving developments like oil and gas drilling, ranching and renewable energy projects."
Source: NPR, 11/05/2018
