The 2006 New Mexico gubernatorial election was a race for the Governor of New Mexico held on November 7, 2006. Incumbent Democratic Governor Bill Richardson was running for re-election. He faced Republican John Dendahl in the general election and won by a landslide. , this was the last time a male candidate was elected Governor of New Mexico. Primaries Democratic Bill Richardson, incumbent Governor of New Mexico Anselmo A. Chavez, veteran and perennial candidate Results Republican James R. Damron, physician George Brent Bailey Jr., educator and minister Results General election Candidates Bill Richardson (Democrat), incumbent Governor of New Mexico John Dendahl (Republican), former chair of the Republican Party of New Mexico Campaign Damron defeated Bailey in the Republican primary, but withdrew from the race on June 17, 2006 due to a lack of fundraising. John Dendahl was appointed by the Republican State Central Committee to replace him. There were no general election debates between the two candidates. Predictions Polling Results See also United States gubernatorial elections, 2006 References External links Campaign websites (Archived) Bill Richardson John Dendahl Governor 2006 New Mexico