N.M. Stat. § 9-21-5
of Indian affairs.
A. The chief executive and administrative officer of the department is the "secretary
of Indian affairs". The secretary shall be appointed by the governor with the consent of
the senate. The secretary shall hold the office at the pleasure of the governor and shall
serve in the executive cabinet.
B. An appointed secretary shall serve and have all of the duties, responsibilities and
authority of that office during the period of time prior to final action by the senate
confirming or rejecting the secretary's appointment.