Teague raises at least $175K at fundraiser

Former Lea County Commissioner Harry Teague raised at least $175,000 on Thursday evening for his campaign to replace U.S. Rep. Steve Pearce, R-N.M.

Teague made the formal announcement of his candidacy on Thursday in Hobbs, and the event doubled as the fundraiser. His campaign released the fundraising total this afternoon, but it expects more money to come in as a result of the fundraiser.

Teague said, in a statement released by his campaign, that he is “humbled and overwhelmed by the incredible support I have received at my first fundraiser. Clearly, there is a desire for change in (Congressional District) 2, and I am the candidate who can bring that change to Washington.”

Teague is in a crowded Democratic primary that also includes state Rep. Joseph Cervantes of Las Cruces, Al Kissling of Las Cruces, Doña Ana County Commissioner Bill McCamley and Roswell businessman Frank McKinnon.

On the Republican side, only GOP restaurant-chain owner and rancher Ed Tinsley has formally entered the race, but former Bernalillo County GOP Executive Director Bob Cornelius has formed an exploratory committee “with the intent to run.” Sierra County Republican Party Chair C. Earl Greer and Aubrey L. Dunn Jr. are expected to make final decisions soon, and others are also considering the race.