New Mexico Gov.-elect Haaland names state labor secretary as chief of staff

New Mexico Gov.-elect Deb Haaland on Friday morning announced that the state’s current secretary of the Department of Workforce Solutions would be her chief of staff.

The New Mexico State Senate confirmed Sarita Nair as DWS secretary in February of 2023. She worked previously as chief administrative officer for the City of Albuquerque

“I am confident that Sarita will serve as a trusted partner and tireless advocate for all New Mexicans,” Haaland said in a statement. “She is a distinguished leader with over 20 years of experience in public service and the law. Her expertise will be essential as we build a state government that is accountable to New Mexicans and is focused on cutting costs for working families.”

A news release says Nair’s responsibilities as chief of staff will include guiding the transition to Haaland’s administration, and coordinating her staffing, cabinet appointments and policy priorities. It was not immediately clear if Sair would also continue as DWS secretary. Haaland on Thursday named several members of her campaign staff to her transition team as well.

“It is an honor to serve the people of New Mexico as the Chief of Staff for Governor-elect Haaland. I am committed to supporting her and the incoming Cabinet to lower costs, expand access to healthcare, and strengthen public safety,” Nair said.

This is a developing story.