Farmington Mayor Announces Retirement After 28 Years

Longtime leader calls on 'next generation' to step up and run for office.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Ernie Penn, the mayor of Farmington, New Mexico, has announced that he will not seek reelection in November after serving the city for a total of 28 years. Penn cited a desire to pass the torch to the next generation of leaders as the reason for his retirement.

Why it matters

Penn's retirement marks the end of an era for Farmington, as he has been a fixture in local politics for nearly three decades. His decision to step down opens up an opportunity for new leadership and fresh ideas to shape the city's future.

The details

Penn first became mayor of Farmington in 1998 and has held the position ever since, making him one of the longest-serving mayors in the state. During his tenure, he has overseen a period of growth and development in the city, including the revitalization of the downtown area and the expansion of the local economy.

  • Ernie Penn has served as mayor of Farmington since 1998.
  • Penn announced his decision not to seek reelection in November 2026.

The players

Ernie Penn

The mayor of Farmington, New Mexico, who has served in the position for 28 years and is now announcing his retirement.

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What they’re saying

“It's time for the next generation to step up and lead Farmington into the future.”

— Ernie Penn, Mayor of Farmington (wn.com)

What’s next

The city of Farmington will now begin the process of finding a new mayor to lead the city, with the election scheduled for November 2026.

The takeaway

Ernie Penn's retirement after nearly three decades as mayor of Farmington marks the end of an era and presents an opportunity for new leadership to emerge and shape the city's future direction.