John, 

Since day one of my administration, I've promised to build a brighter future for New Mexico – and that means leading our state toward cutting-edge opportunities that pave a pathway forward. That's why I was so excited to see Virgin Galactic's first fully crewed spaceflight take off in New Mexico last week.

On Sunday morning, all eyes were on New Mexico as the VSS Unity took off from Spaceport America – just south of Truth or Consequences – launching the first crew of civilians into suborbital space. It's a truly awe-inspiring feat, and I'm so proud that our state has become the launchpad for commercial space travel and exploration.

With an estimated 400 commercial flights per month, New Mexico’s space industry will support thousands of jobs and small businesses all around our state. Virgin Galactic's historic flight has also put an urgent focus on innovation and development, which will open the door for new opportunities in STEM education. Together, I know we'll use this moment in our state's history to inspire the next generation of leading scientists and engineers.

Right now, we have so much to do to continue to grow our economy. We mustn't lose sight of the future. This investment in New Mexico will take us to new heights – and set us on a pathway to sustainable success.

Thank you for charting a brighter economic future for New Mexico alongside me. 

Warmly, 

Michelle Lujan Grisham