Incumbent Republican governor Susana Martinez was term-limited and could not run for election to a third consecutive term.

[9] For the general election, Governing magazine projected the race as "leans Democratic".

As a result, the New Mexico Republican Party chose Gavin Clarkson as their nominee.

[11] Jeff was replaced as the Libertarian nominee by Ginger Grider after withdrawing from the race.

Wayne Johnson Republican Brian Colón Democratic After incumbent Democratic state auditor Tim Keller was elected mayor of Albuquerque in the 2017 election, and resigned to take office, Governor Martinez appointed Bernalillo County Commissioner Wayne Johnson (R) to be the new state auditor.

Incumbent Gary L. Clingman was appointed by Governor Susana Martinez on April 6, 2018[24] after Justice Edward L. Chávez retired.