The beginning of the twenty-first century was marked by the presence of more than 1.8 million New Mexicans, continued growth in the Rio Grande corridor, and changes in the state's governorship and top legislative posts. This revision of New Mexico Government, Third Edition, updates information found in the earlier edition. Throughout the writing, the editors compare New Mexico's governmental institutions and practices with those of other states of the union.

"Though many of the political faces have changed, many of the issues have not. New Mexicans and their governments continue to wrestle with issues as diverse as water and the environment, DWI, education, crime and drugs, and economic development. In [Governing New Mexico], we attempt to present descriptions and explanations of the structures and environments in which some of those efforts occur."—from Governing New Mexico

Following a brief look at New Mexico's history and culture, chapters cover the state's constitution, the three branches of government, local governmental structures, American Indian tribal governments, elections, and education.