Gregory Hollister

Chief Medina erupts in shouting match at ABQ City Hall as scandals explode

15 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Tensions boiled over Thursday night as Albuquerque City Councilor Louie Sanchez publicly clashed with Mayor Tim Keller’s Police Chief Harold Medina during a heated budget meeting, laying bare what many see as the deep dysfunction and scandal-ridden leadership of the Albuquerque Police Department (APD).

The City Council, meeting as a Committee of the Whole to hash out the city’s budget for the fiscal year starting July 1, quickly descended into chaos when Medina appeared to defend APD’s latest $271.5 million funding request—a 5.2% increase over last year. The flashpoint came when Sanchez, a former police officer and current mayoral candidate, called out Medina’s casual appearance and lack of respect. “Nice of you to show up in a polo shirt today, chief,” Sanchez jabbed, adding, “Thanks for disrespecting us today.”

The exchange escalated when Sanchez pressed Medina on why the council was left in the dark about his request to bring in New Mexico National Guard troops to assist APD by handling lower-level duties, freeing up officers for other tasks. Medina, visibly rattled, fired back, branding Sanchez as “unprofessional” and defensively declaring, “I’m not going to sit here and let you abuse me,” while adding, “I hope the whole city of Albuquerque saw” Sanchez’s actions. Both men shouted over one another until the committee chair reluctantly restored order.

But the fireworks over budget figures and staffing levels are only the tip of the iceberg. The meeting spotlighted the much deeper rot under Medina’s leadership, which has left the department mired in scandal, corruption, and declining public trust.

Most damning is the federal investigation into a massive bribery scheme in which DWI cases were thrown out in exchange for cash—a scandal Medina’s department is directly implicated in. Dubbed the “DWI Enterprise,” the operation involved APD officers, deputies from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, and New Mexico State Police, who conspired with attorney Thomas Clear III and investigator Ricardo Mendez to get DWI charges dismissed for paying clients. This brazen scheme, ongoing since at least 2008, has triggered a wave of firings and resignations within APD, underscoring the pervasive corruption Medina has failed to root out.

Further, Medina’s leadership has been dogged by claims of nepotism and retaliatory practices within the APD academy. Seven instructors filed a whistleblower lawsuit alleging they were punished for reporting that a cadet—coincidentally the son of a police commander—was reinstated after being dismissed for violating grooming standards and lying about it. The instructors were allegedly reassigned in retaliation, a move they say highlights Medina’s willingness to protect insiders at the expense of integrity and fairness.

Adding to the list of Medina’s misconduct is a February 2024 car crash where the chief ran a red light, colliding with another vehicle and seriously injuring its driver. In a blatant violation of department policy, Medina did not activate his body camera during the incident and later invoked his Fifth Amendment right to avoid self-incrimination. This reckless behavior raised further concerns about accountability at the highest levels of APD leadership.

Against this backdrop of scandal and mismanagement, Councilor Sanchez grilled Medina about bloated upper management and the continued lack of “boots on the ground.” Sanchez demanded answers: “How are you going to do something to change your over-bloated upper echelon in reference to putting boots on the ground?” Medina, predictably defensive, justified the department’s top-heavy structure by citing the U.S. Department of Justice consent decree requiring reforms. “Maybe in 2011, with those low numbers of executives, we had a lack of supervision over people. We had a lack of holding people accountable because we had spans of control that were too wide,” he argued—despite the current scandals suggesting otherwise.

Councilor Dan Champine also weighed in, scrutinizing the $6.5 million set aside for command staff salaries, further amplifying concerns that APD’s budget continues to prioritize bureaucracy over real policing.

Adding fuel to the fire, Councilor Dan Lewis exposed what he described as a $5.4 million backdoor cut to APD’s budget, criticizing the department for diverting funds meant for vacant officer positions. “We’re cutting your budget by $5.4 million, and it’s going to other things. That’s the explanation. That’s exactly what’s going on,” Lewis said bluntly.

While Medina claimed APD had around 900 officers by late 2024 and projected 1,000 by the end of 2025, the reality remains bleak. Medina admitted that even if the $5.4 million were restored for officer salaries, it would likely be funneled elsewhere—a telling sign of misplaced priorities.

Chief Financial Officer Kevin Sourisseau, attempting to downplay the controversy, insisted that overall APD funding would increase and claimed it’s routine not to fund positions that won’t be filled. But given the department’s track record under Medina, reassurances from city officials rang hollow.

Despite all of this, the council advanced the budget proposal, with a final vote expected on May 20.

With Medina’s tenure marred by corruption scandals, mishandled investigations, and ballooning bureaucracy, Thursday’s explosive meeting made one thing clear: APD’s leadership is under fire—and the pressure for real reform is only growing louder.

Watch: 

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NM legislator’s past conflicts of interest contradict current ethics rhetoric

3 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

New Mexico State Rep. Micaela Lara Cadena, D-Mesilla, recently took a strong stance in favor of what is being billed as a transparency in lobbying bill, passionately advocating for H.B. 143, a measure aimed at shining a brighter light on lobbying activities at the Roundhouse. However, her own record raises serious questions about whether her push for transparency is genuine—or just political grandstanding.

During a recent Senate Rules Committee hearing, Cadena lamented that legislative decisions in New Mexico do not always happen “in light and in transparency,” according to a Santa Fe New Mexican report. 

She pointedly referenced an instance where two committee members voted on a bill despite having direct financial interests in its outcome. 

“Just today in our tax committee, we voted on a bill where two members of the committee who have direct financial interest in the piece of legislation we are considering took votes,” she said, adding, “I think an incredible amendment to this bill would be that us as members of the body, if we had a spouse or ourselves had a financial interest in the legislation we are considering, would have to at least disclose that since recusal is not something our body is used to or seems to practice.”

Yet, just a few years ago, Cadena herself was seen in a bout of blatant conflicts of interest, actively participating in legislation that directly benefited the organization she worked for—without recusing herself.

Cadena’s Own Ethical Questions

Cadena, while serving her first term in the New Mexico House, was also employed as the Research Director for Young Women United (YWU), an organization that aggressively lobbies for expanded abortion access, as reported by our predecessor site, JohnForNM.com in 2019 

YWU was a key player in the push for that year’s House Bill 51, which sought to expand abortion rights in the state. Not only was Cadena personally involved with YWU’s legislative agenda, but her direct association with the group was evident—her name and photo were even featured on the Respect New Mexico Women coalition’s website, an advocacy group tied to YWU.

Under the New Mexico Legislative Ethics Guide, legislators are expected to recuse themselves from voting on bills where they or their organizations have a direct interest. Despite this clear ethical guideline, Cadena actively participated in discussions and votes that directly benefited her employer, violating the very principles of transparency and accountability she now claims to champion.

Double Standards on Lobbying and Influence

Cadena’s recent statements in favor of 2025’s HB 143 come across as hollow in light of her past actions. She has expressed concerns about legislators voting on bills where they have personal financial interests, yet she saw no issue with doing the same when it suited her political and professional objectives. 

This raises a fundamental question: Is Cadena truly committed to ethics reform, or is she simply using the issue as a tool to target political opponents while ignoring her own potential transgressions?

Moreover, her recent push for greater disclosure in lobbying lacks credibility when considering her history of working for a lobbying organization while simultaneously serving as a lawmaker. The very transparency measures she now supports would have, in theory, required her to disclose her connections to YWU more openly—something she conveniently avoided when it would have affected her own career.

Political Opportunism Over Genuine Reform

Cadena’s inconsistency on ethics and transparency demonstrates the kind of political opportunism that frustrates voters. While she is quick to call for others to be held accountable, she has shown little regard for the rules when they apply to her. Her actions highlight the hypocrisy that often plagues politics, where lawmakers demand accountability from others while conveniently ignoring their own conflicts of interest.

If Cadena truly believes in transparency and ethics, she should start by acknowledging her past violations and committing to holding herself to the same standard she seeks to impose on others. Until then, her advocacy for HB 143 rings hollow, serving more as a political maneuver than a genuine commitment to reform.

NM legislator’s past conflicts of interest contradict current ethics rhetoric Read More »

Teachers’ union rips MLG over latest incendiary comments

6 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In a recent development, the American Federation of Teachers New Mexico (AFT NM) has openly criticized Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for her remarks concerning educators serving in the state legislature. 

The governor reportedly described it as “unethical and a huge conflict of interest” for current and former educators to vote on education-related matters, suggesting that such individuals have hindered educational reforms. She was quoted saying, “You’ve got a lot of former educators and superintendents who aren’t interested in changing anything.”

In response, AFT NM expressed profound disappointment, emphasizing the value of educators’ firsthand experience in legislative processes. The union stated, “Lawmaking and policy work take teamwork and trust, not criticism.”

This incident is not the first instance of tension between the governor and educators. Previously, the National Education Association of New Mexico (NEA-NM) opposed a state rule mandating a 180-day school year, which was set to take effect on July 1, 2024. 

NEA-NM President Mary Parr-Sánchez voiced concerns that the rule would drive educators out of the profession and erode local control over school calendars. She remarked, “There is a great majority of people that believe that would not be in the best interest of children, because it’s going to drive educators out of the field.” 

The rule faced significant opposition from educators and administrators, leading to legal challenges. In February 2025, a New Mexico district judge ruled that the Public Education Department’s mandate for a 180-day instructional calendar was unlawful and unenforceable. The court found that the department had exceeded its authority and that the rule conflicted with existing state laws, which emphasize local flexibility in meeting instructional hour requirements. 

These events highlight ongoing debates in New Mexico regarding the balance between state mandates and local control in educational policy and the executive’s ability to keep her former supporters (such as teachers’ unions) in her camp as her tenure as governor wanes. 

Rebuking families and teachers, Lujan Grisham’s PED OKs harsh mandates

Teachers’ union rips MLG over latest incendiary comments Read More »

After ‘democracy’ theatrics, Sen. Luján now raising cash for election denier

12 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In a move that is raising eyebrows, New Mexico Sen. Ben Ray Luján’s campaign has issued a fundraising email supporting Pennsylvania Democrat Bob Casey, who continues to challenge his recent Senate election defeat.

The November 15, 2024, email, framed as a rallying call to ensure “every Pennsylvanian’s voice is heard,” urges supporters to split contributions between Casey and Luján to fund recount efforts in a tight Pennsylvania Senate race.

It reads, “Help us fund the fight in Pennsylvania’s critical Senate race. All eyes are on us, and we can’t back down from this fight. Split $5 between Bob Casey and Ben Ray Luján now to fuel our efforts.” Another November 12, 2024, email was sent to Luján’s list from Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA), who had previously made a similar request.

“I’m not $#!ting you when I say this is the most important race in the country now. We cannot afford to lose another Senate seat. Bob Casey MUST be re-elected to stand up to Republicans and Donald Trump in the Senate,” yet another November 13, 2024, email read, signed by far-left Democrat strategist Bob Carville. 

The race was called for Republican McCormick on November 7, 2024, by the left-leaning Associated Press.

This has drawn criticism from some who allege Democrats are attempting to undermine the election’s legitimacy by pushing to count ballots deemed invalid under state law.

With the Associated Press already calling the race for Republican Sen.-elect Dave McCormick, Casey trails by 26,000 votes—a deficit that triggered an automatic recount under Pennsylvania law. However, ongoing disputes center on the validity of thousands of mail-in ballots lacking required signatures or dates, which the Pennsylvania Supreme Court previously ruled must be excluded. Democratic officials in counties like Philadelphia and Montgomery have pushed back, arguing that such exclusions disenfranchise voters over clerical errors.

Sen. Bob Casey (middle) with former PA Gov. Tom Wolf (right).

Bucks County Commissioner Diane Ellis-Marseglia exemplifies this defiance, stating, “I think we all know that precedent by a court doesn’t matter anymore in this country,” as she supported counting ballots that state law disqualifies. Meanwhile, Republican officials, including McCormick’s team, accuse Democrats of flouting legal precedent to “steal” the seat, prompting a series of lawsuits to ensure disqualified ballots are not counted.

For Luján, whose own reelection campaign is on the horizon, his backing of Casey has drawn scrutiny. Critics argue that by aligning himself with efforts they deem to undermine valid election outcomes, Luján risks being labeled as supporting an “election denier.” Luján previously campaigned with the election loser in September. Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley called the situation “left-wing election interference that undermines voter confidence,” while Democrats defend their stance as protecting fundamental voting rights.

Previously, Luján attempted to corner Trump on claims that there were vast anomalies in the 2024 election, blasting President-elect Trump for “attack[ing] the legitimacy of the 2020 presidential election,” claiming he “undermine[d] the democratic process.”

“Our democracy faces clear and present dangers posed by Republican-led state legislatures across the country,” Luján said in a 2022 floor speech, claiming that voter ID laws curtail “democracy.”

Interestingly, in the same speech, he also noted, “And only one archaic parliamentary measure prohibits all this progress: the filibuster. The filibuster does not increase deliberation in this chamber; it does not incentivize compromise. It stands in the way of progress. So, while some claim that amending the filibuster would further this country’s division: I disagree.”

This comes as Democrats are poised to attempt to use the filibuster to try and stop President-elect Trump’s Cabinet nominees, and it interestingly could be un-“archaic” in his eyes now that he is no longer in the majority party.

The financial appeal sent to Luján’s supporters portrays the recount as a critical battle, but it may also signal strategic risks for the senator. With his 2026 reelection approaching, his support for a contested recount could shape perceptions of his political priorities at a sensitive time. According to the most recent political indexes available, New Mexico’s U.S. Senate race leans three points toward Democrats, which is prime for the taking by Republicans.

After ‘democracy’ theatrics, Sen. Luján now raising cash for election denier Read More »

Dem NM legislator tries to defend ‘gender-affirming care’ on kids

25 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In a recent Albuquerque Journal op-ed, Democrat New Mexico State Rep. Dayan Hochman-Vigil of Albuquerque defended the radical House Bill 7 (HB 7), asserting that it safeguards access to “reproductive and gender-affirming health care.”

The Democrat writes, “I have been blessed to know and raise two kids who happen to be transgender. They are adults now, but like all parents, I love and support my kids and want to protect them from harm, so I am deeply disturbed to see Republicans try to play political games with their health care and the health care of all children.”

She contends that the bill does not permit minors to undergo transgender surgeries without parental involvement and emphasizes the purported benefits of gender-affirming care, including the use of puberty blockers, which she describes as “safe” and “reversible.”

However, a critical examination of these claims reveals significant concerns:

Parental Consent and HB 7

Contrary to Rep. Hochman-Vigil’s assertion that HB 7 does not allow minors to receive transgender surgeries without parental involvement, the bill’s language raises questions about parental rights. The legislation prohibits public bodies from denying, restricting, or interfering with an individual’s access to reproductive or gender-affirming health care. 

The bill does not address parental consent for minors seeking such treatments. This omission shows that these public bodies must allow minors to access certain medical interventions without parental approval. Critics of the radical legislation argue that this undermines parental authority and involvement in crucial health decisions affecting their children.

Reversibility and Safety of Puberty Blockers

Hochman-Vigil describes puberty blockers as “safe” and “reversible.” While a few vague and biased studies suggest that the effects of puberty blockers can be reversed upon discontinuation, the long-term consequences remain uncertain. A 2020 review by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) concluded that the evidence for the effectiveness and safety of puberty blockers is of very low certainty. 

Additionally, concerns have been raised about potential impacts on bone density and future fertility, indicating that the characterization of these treatments as entirely safe and reversible may be overly simplistic.

Mental Health Outcomes and Regret Rates

The op-ed cites studies indicating that gender-affirming care reduces depression and suicide risk among transgender individuals. While some research supports these findings, other studies highlight complexities. For instance, a 2021 systematic review published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery acknowledged limitations, including the lack of long-term follow-up data on regret for said surgeries and treatments. Furthermore, a 2023 study published in the Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy questioned the robustness of evidence supporting the Dutch protocol, a widely adopted approach to treating gender dysphoria in adolescents, suggesting that more rigorous research is needed to fully understand the outcomes of such interventions.

Medical Authority and Ethical Concerns

The Cass Review in the UK, an independent review of gender identity services for children and young people, highlighted the need for more comprehensive data and called for caution in the medicalization of gender dysphoria in minors. The review emphasized the importance of thorough psychological assessment and the consideration of less invasive interventions before proceeding with medical treatments.

Conclusion

While Rep. Hochman-Vigil’s op-ed aims to defend HB 7 and the provision of gender-affirming care, it is essential to critically assess the claims presented. The complexities surrounding parental consent, the safety and reversibility of puberty blockers, mental health outcomes, and the ethical responsibilities of medical providers necessitate extreme skepticism, especially since many of her claims are flat-out false. 

Dem NM legislator tries to defend ‘gender-affirming care’ on kids Read More »

It’s Election Day! Which races could redefine NM politics in 2024?

3 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

As New Mexicans head to the polls Tuesday, voters are preparing to cast ballots in critical races that will influence the future direction of both the state and the nation, with Republicans setting their sights on flipping many legislative seats. From a fierce congressional contest to pivotal state legislature seats, this election offers conservative voters the best chance in decades to flip the state. Here’s what New Mexico voters need to know as they make their final decisions.

Spotlight on the Key Races

With the U.S. Presidency up for grabs, 45th President Donald J. Trump is within the margin of error in New Mexico against Democrat Kamala Harris, according to polling, with the best shot at flipping the state in 20 years.

In New Mexico’s Second Congressional District, incumbent Democrat Gabe Vasquez faces a strong challenge from Republican former Congresswoman Yvette Herrell. The race is expected to be close, with Vasquez and Herrell presenting sharply different views on topics such as immigration reform, energy policies, and economic growth, with Vasquez’s lengthy rap sheet and far-left voting record a sticking point of the campaign.

The U.S. Senate race currently held by far-left Sen. Martin Heinrich is one of the closest in recent history. According to recent polling, Republican Nella Domenici is just a single point away from clinching the seat. 

New Boundaries in State Senate Races

This year’s Senate election will be the first conducted under newly redrawn district lines implemented after recent redistricting. This shift has left several seats in a tighter balance between Democrats and Republicans, even though some districts remain solidly partisan. While Democrats have fielded candidates in 33 of the state’s Senate districts, Republicans compete in 24.

Several notable races with slim performance margins include:

  • Senate District 9: With no incumbent, far-left Democrat and “DACA” recipient Cindy Nava and Republican Audrey Trujillo are vying for the seat, which has a slight Democratic tilt based on voting patterns. This district spans Sandoval County and parts of Albuquerque’s Paradise Hills neighborhood, making it a closely watched race.
  • Senate District 12: Following significant redistricting changes, this district leans Republican, providing Sandoval County Commissioner Jay Block with a potential advantage over Democrat Phillip Ramirez. The district, once in Albuquerque’s downtown, now covers parts of Rio Rancho, shifting the voter demographic.
  • Senate District 18: Democrat state Rep. Natalie Figueroa and Republican Kurstin Johnson compete for an open seat that retains a modest Democratic lean in Albuquerque. However, the recent boundary shifts may influence its competitiveness.
  • Senate District 20: Incumbent Democrat state Sen. Martin Hickey is fighting to hold onto his seat in a district that is closely divided between parties. Hickey’s strong Republican opponent, Wayne Yevoli, aims to shift the balance in this Foothills region of Albuquerque.
  • Senate District 29: With a new layout spanning from Los Lunas to Socorro, this race has Republican Sen. Joshua Sanchez and Democrat Tina Garcia competing in what is now a slightly Republican-leaning district.

Key House Races to Watch

The New Mexico House of Representatives, already operating under redistricted lines from 2022, will also see its fair share of competitive seats. Democrats previously won 10 of the 12 House districts decided by narrow margins, but many key races are expected to be nail-biters, including the following:

  • House District 17: Democrat Cynthia Borrego and Republican Joshua Neal are competing for a district with moderate Democratic leanings.
  • House District 28: Incumbent Democrat Pamelya Herndon is defending her seat against Republican Marcie May.
  • House District 53: Far-left radical Sarah Silva (D) is running against Elizabeth Winterrowd (R) in a district that could swing.
  • House District 68: Democrat Charlotte Little and Republican Nathan Brooks are vying for a district with one of the slimmest partisan margins.

How to Vote: Locations, Options, and Deadlines

New Mexico voters can verify polling locations on the New Mexico Secretary of State’s website or by contacting their local county clerk’s office. Polls open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 7:00 p.m. on Election Day, November 5. 

If voters still have their absentee ballots but have not yet turned them in, they can hand-deliver them to a polling location or a drop box.

Voters are encouraged to check their sample ballots in advance to be familiar with all races and any ballot measures. If voting absentee, double-check that your ballot is signed and submitted correctly.

Resources and Reminders

For comprehensive election details, including sample ballots, polling place information, and voter ID requirements, visit the New Mexico Secretary of State’s website at NMVote.org.

New Mexico voters have a vital opportunity to shape the future of their communities and the state. Making an informed vote on November 5 ensures every vote counts.

It’s Election Day! Which races could redefine NM politics in 2024? Read More »

Lujan Grisham flips out after TX Gov. Abbott’s razor wire on NM border

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New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has expressed frustration in response to Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s ongoing efforts to fortify the Texas border with New Mexico, but Abbott’s actions reflect his firm commitment to securing his state from illegal immigration—something that Lujan Grisham has failed to address in the Land of Enchantment.

Gov. Abbott’s latest move involved deploying the Texas National Guard to install additional razor wire and fencing along the Rio Grande, particularly in the El Paso area. This action comes as part of his broader initiative to curb illegal crossings into Texas, a significant issue. 

Abbott has emphasized that Texas cannot sit idly by while the federal government struggles to address the ongoing border crisis. “Texas is fighting back. We are tripling our razor wire border barriers to deny illegal entry into our state and our country,” Abbott tweeted, underscoring his proactive stance on border security.

While Governor Lujan Grisham criticized the move, suggesting Abbott is treating Texas as if it were its own country (which it actually used to be) and ignoring the interconnectedness between states, particularly in regions like the oil-rich Permian Basin, her stance contrasts starkly with Abbott’s. 

“Gov. Abbott seems to be pushing to make Texas its own country without regard for his neighbors or the fact that Texas is already part of a great nation—the United States,” she claimed.

She has remained the only border-state governor to reject federal assistance aimed at alleviating the migrant influx, positioning her as an outlier among her peers when it comes to border management. This has left New Mexico more exposed to the fallout from border security lapses, particularly in areas like Sunland Park, where smuggling activities have been rampant.

Abbott and his supporters see these actions as essential in the absence of meaningful federal reform. Texas has seen firsthand the consequences of a porous border, and Abbott’s efforts reflect a commitment to filling the security gaps that, in his view, the Biden administration has neglected.

Lujan Grisham’s refusal to take similar actions or cooperate with Texas on border security continues to raise questions, especially as Texas remains vigilant in protecting its residents. While Abbott is taking tangible steps to safeguard his state, Lujan Grisham’s criticism highlights the stark difference in leadership approaches between the two border governors.

Lujan Grisham flips out after TX Gov. Abbott’s razor wire on NM border Read More »

Starbucks under fire in Taos—literally! What’s sparking the outrage?

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After two incidents of arson at a Starbucks construction site in Taos, New Mexico, a determined developer is making another attempt to establish the town’s first drive-through location for the coffee giant. The small community of 6,500, known for its history of resistance to outside influences, has given the would-be Starbucks the moniker “Charbucks.” In response to the attacks, a construction firm from Albuquerque has bolstered security with video surveillance and an on-site guard stationed in a camouflaged trailer.

The planned Starbucks, which the company aims to open by the spring of 2025, has sparked a range of reactions among locals. Just a short distance away, patrons at World Cup, one of Taos’ oldest independent coffee shops, remain guarded in their comments. One local, Todd Lazar, expressed his thoughts, saying, “We don’t know who did it, but we loved it,” reflecting the sentiment that national chains like Starbucks are unwelcome intrusions into the town’s unique culture.

Opposition to Starbucks in Taos mirrors the criticisms the chain has faced globally, with detractors arguing that it threatens local businesses and drains money from communities. Stickers opposing the Starbucks, featuring the company’s mermaid logo engulfed in flames with the face replaced by La Calavera Catrina—a figure associated with Mexico’s Day of the Dead—have appeared on local businesses.

The site of the intended Starbucks has been marred by two fires, the first in August 2023, followed by another in October. The initial attack left the words “NO” (preceded by an expletive) spray-painted on the partially burned structure. 

Sylvia Rodriguez, an emerita professor of anthropology at the University of New Mexico, described Taos as a “dynamic and volatile contact zone,” reflecting the town’s complex cultural landscape and historical resistance to outside influence. Despite these challenges, the Taos town council has supported the Starbucks project, viewing it as a source of jobs and tax revenue. However, local business owners like Andrea Meyer argue that jobs aren’t the issue, but rather the lack of affordable housing that forces many workers out of the area.

Following the second arson attack, two or three national chains reconsidered their plans to set up shop in Taos, according to Christopher Larsen, the town’s economic development director. He noted that the prevailing sentiment is that “Taos doesn’t want corporate America.”

Starbucks, a wake corporation, has emphasized the safety of its employees as a top priority. While no injuries are reported from the fires, the company plans to work closely with local law enforcement once the store opens. The town has offered a $30,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the fires, but so far, no arrests have been made, though authorities believe they have identified suspects.

Pablo Flores, owner of the Coffee Apothecary in Taos, expressed a mix of dismay at the growing presence of national chains and condemnation of the violent actions against them. Flores urged those unhappy with Taos’ changes to simply not support such businesses rather than resort to destruction, emphasizing, “Don’t burn it down, that’s not cool.”

Starbucks under fire in Taos—literally! What’s sparking the outrage? Read More »

Border Patrol arrests terrorist bomb maker in NM, second suspect on the run

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New Mexico has become a focal point for security concerns, as it serves as a crossing point for criminal and terrorist aliens attempting to enter the United States. 

Recently, law enforcement in New Mexico arrested a Palestinian man at the border who was previously convicted in Israel for making bombs. 

The man, who had served 20 months in an Israeli prison for his involvement in terrorism, was apprehended as he tried to cross into the U.S. through the southern border.

The arrest is raising alarms among law enforcement agencies, as it highlights the potential for terrorists to exploit vulnerabilities in the U.S. border security system. According to sources, the search continues for another suspect believed to have terrorist ties, sparking concerns about whether more such individuals could successfully enter the U.S. unnoticed.

One key issue raised by local law enforcement is the lack of communication between federal agencies and regional police forces. News reports have indicated that while Border Patrol agents were alerted to the potential threat posed by bomb makers attempting to cross the border, local authorities were not informed in advance. 

This has led to frustration among local officials who feel they are not receiving the critical intelligence needed to protect their communities effectively.

New Mexico, with its vast, difficult-to-monitor terrain, is increasingly being seen as a hub for illegal crossings by criminal elements, including those with terrorist connections. 

The arrest of the Palestinian bomb maker is a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges at the southern border and the need for better coordination among federal, state, and local law enforcement to prevent further incidents. New Mexico’s Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has refused calls to send resources down to the border to apprehend criminal aliens, terrorist aliens, and the flow of deadly fentanyl.

The hunt for the second suspect continues as security concerns mount.

Border Patrol arrests terrorist bomb maker in NM, second suspect on the run Read More »

NM’s July voter registration stats look promising for GOP

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Registration statistics from New Mexico show that the number of Republicans is surging, at least in July, with a large number of new voters registered in the Land of Enchantment.

As Democrats continue infighting while lame-duck Biden stalls in the presidency and Kamala Harris attempts a shot at the White House, Democrats are slipping behind the GOP in new voter registrations.

1,233 new registered Republicans have appeared on the voter rolls, while Democrats only added 590 new voters in the same month.

Nationwide, it looks even more promising for Republicans, with a total of 252,794 new GOP voters added, while the Democrats lost 19,088 voters.

In California alone, Republicans added 94,667 voters while Democrats lost 43,733.

Democrats have reportedly lost 3.5 million voters since the contested 2020 election. Republicans have added a net 393,365 voters, while Democrats lost 3,584,321. New York and Pennsylvania have lost the most Democrats, with the Empire State Losing 410,386 and the Keystone State losing 329,289, respectively. 

New Mexico has lost 29,397 Democrats, while Republicans in the Land of Enchantment have lost only 3,963. 

With states like New Mexico in play for Republicans, momentum appears to be shifting toward the Grand Old Party.

In the state, the latest polls show Republican 45th President Donald Trump trailing Kamala Harris by a mere seven percent while Republican Nella Domenici is trailing U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich by only six points — showing the state is very much in play.

The latest voter registration data for New Mexico can be accessed here.

New NM polling: Trump, Domenici within single digits of beating Dems

NM’s July voter registration stats look promising for GOP Read More »

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