In 1826 Vigil was appointed customs collector by the central government, in charge of regulating the trade with the United States via the Santa Fe Trail, a difficult position and one in which he came to blows with the trader Charles Bent.
[1] Vigil y Alarid was left in charge as acting Governor of New Mexico when his predecessor Manuel Armijo fled Santa Fe to escape the approaching U.S. troops under General Stephen W. Kearny.
[2] In his speech he said, presumably reflecting the views of other leading citizens: General: The address which you have just delivered, in which you announce that you have taken possession of this great country in the name of the United States of America, gives us some idea of the wonderful future that awaits us.
the boundaries of nations ... it is for us to obey and respect the established authorities, no matter what may be our private opinions ... No one in this world can successfully resist the power of Him who is stronger.
Do not find it strange if there has been no manifestation of joy and enthusiasm in seeing this country occupied by your military forces ... Today we belong to a great and powerful nation ...