ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico – Republican gubernatorial nominee Gregg Hull today called on state leaders to treat the arrival of the New World screwworm in New Mexico as the agricultural and public health emergency it is – and pledged that on day one of his administration, he will convene a task force of agricultural leaders, ranchers, and state veterinarians to mount a full response.

On June 8, federal officials confirmed the first New World screwworm case in New Mexico, detected in a Lea County dog. The outbreak has now produced six total confirmed domestic animal cases in the United States – including four cattle, one goat, and one dog – since the first U.S. detection on June 3.

“This is a direct threat to New Mexico’s ranching families, our livestock industry, and our communities,” said Hull. “New Mexico has over a million cattle and more than 10,000 ranching families whose livelihoods are on the line. I am watching this situation closely, and I will be ready to act the moment I take office.”

The New World screwworm is a parasitic pest that infests the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, pets, wildlife, and people. The fly lays eggs in wounds or body cavities, where they develop into larvae that feed on and burrow into living flesh. Cases in people can be fatal if left untreated. The pest reemerged in Mexico in November 2024 and has spread steadily northward ever since. 

Hull, who spent 12 years as mayor of Rio Rancho, said his record of building coalitions to solve complex problems is exactly what New Mexico needs in a moment like this.

“New Mexico’s farmers and ranchers deserve a governor who will hit the ground running,” Hull said. “I will walk in the door on day one with an agricultural emergency task force ready to go.”

Hull’s plan calls for immediate coordination with USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, increased fly surveillance across New Mexico’s border counties, and direct support for ranchers in identifying and reporting potential cases.

Agricultural experts say daily inspection of animals is critical, and that farmers and ranchers should treat wounds immediately with an approved insecticide and contact a veterinarian at the first sign of infestation. 

“New Mexico’s agricultural economy is too important – and too vulnerable right now – for the state to be caught flat-footed,” Hull said. “I will protect our cattle, our ranching families, and our communities.”

To learn more about Gregg Hull’s vision for New Mexico, visit gregghull.com.

Gregg Hull is the Republican nominee for Governor of New Mexico. He served as mayor of Rio Rancho for 12 years.