Piñon Post

After Keller directs APD to shield criminal aliens, mayoral challenger fights back

Leave a Comment / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Albuquerque mayoral candidate Darren White has issued a fiery rebuke of Mayor Tim Keller’s latest move to shield illegal immigrants from federal enforcement, calling it a “reckless abuse of city resources” and demanding immediate federal scrutiny.

In a July 12 Facebook post, Keller announced a new policy directing the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) to answer public inquiries about the presence of federal immigration agents in the city.

“Our APD does not enforce immigration laws. But when something doesn’t feel right in your neighborhood, you deserve to know what’s going on,” Keller wrote. “That’s why we’ve created a new way to verify if federal immigration agents are operating in our city. You can now call APD directly to get answers.”

The post featured a group of activists holding a banner that read “Immigrant Friendly — Burque Strong,” surrounded by butterfly motifs — a well-known symbol of open-borders activism. Notably, several protestors in the photo held signs referencing Senate Bills 250 and 836, which include provisions tied to immigrant protections and limiting law enforcement collaboration with ICE.

But White — a former sheriff, police officer, and cabinet secretary for public safety — isn’t having it. In a formal letter sent to U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, White demanded a federal investigation into whether Keller’s directive violates any laws, particularly those pertaining to obstruction of justice or interference with federal duties.

“As stated in a public post by Mayor Keller, ‘You can now call APD directly to get answers’ regarding the presence of federal immigration agents,” White wrote. “This directive… risks compromising sensitive operations, places federal personnel in imminent danger, and could even endanger members of the public.” 

White emphasized that Keller’s policies are putting political ideology above public safety. “If Mayor Keller doesn’t want ICE making apprehensions in public, he can rescind the Sanctuary City law and allow ICE access to the Prisoner Transport Center,” he added. “That would be safer for law enforcement, the public, and even the criminals being apprehended.”

In a pointed section of the letter, White also called on the U.S. Attorney to publish the criminal histories of illegal immigrants arrested in recent ICE operations to dispel any illusions that these efforts are targeting innocents. “This will provide the public with the clarity necessary to avoid any confusion… confusion ironically exacerbated by a mayor demonizing federal law enforcement at every town hall he attends,” White said.

Keller’s latest “sanctuary hotline” is being slammed across social media, with many citizens expressing outrage. Comments under his post include: “Keller is pro-everything BUT America!” and “Don’t re-elect this Klown Tim.”

As crime surges and federal agents work to dismantle cartel-driven smuggling networks across New Mexico, White’s tough-on-crime approach is striking a chord with voters who are tired of radical policies that use taxpayer-funded police departments to protect lawbreakers.

“Mayor Keller is turning APD into a concierge service for illegal immigrants, not a law enforcement agency,” one voter commented.

With the mayoral race intensifying, White’s call for federal oversight may be a turning point, as New Mexicans decide whether to continue down Keller’s lawless path or return to a government that puts citizen safety first.

After Keller directs APD to shield criminal aliens, mayoral challenger fights back Read More »

‘Had to run’: Vasquez flees border wall question during press briefing

30 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Far-left Democrat U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez is once again refusing to answer whether he supports extending the southern border wall near Sunland Park—this time around Mount Cristo Rey, a revered religious site known for its iconic 29-foot statue of Jesus.

The area has been labeled by U.S. Customs and Border Protection as “a major human smuggling infiltration site for the cartels,” highlighting growing concern over national security and human trafficking. But Vasquez—who has long opposed border enforcement efforts—won’t say where he stands.

According to a recent Source New Mexico article, Vasquez declined to comment when first asked about the wall extension. Then, during a subsequent virtual press briefing with New Mexico’s congressional delegation, Vasquez abruptly left before addressing a question submitted by The Santa Fe New Mexican asking if he supported or opposed the Cristo Rey wall extension.

Vasquez excused his departure by saying he “had to run,” deferring to his communications director Delaney Wehn, who was “on the chat” to field further questions. However, when the newspaper followed up, Wehn did not respond. Even after a second attempt this week, Wehn simply replied: “Thanks for following up here. Apologies, no answers for you at this time.”

The silence is deafening—especially from a congressman representing a border district during a time of record-breaking illegal crossings and cartel violence.

Vasquez’s refusal to answer isn’t surprising given his radical record on border security. In 2022, Vasquez called the existing U.S.-Mexico border wall a “racist political stunt” and said it was “not who we are as a country.” He has previously argued that “barriers and walls” only serve to “divide communities and perpetuate racism,” even as Border Patrol agents in his district struggle to contain daily waves of illegal crossings, drug smuggling, and human trafficking.

He has also openly opposed Title 42, the Trump-era policy that allowed for swift deportation of illegal immigrants during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, Vasquez has advocated for expanded “pathways to citizenship” and broader asylum protections, aligning himself with the most extreme elements of the open-borders left.

Now, even as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”—a comprehensive legislative package that includes border security investments and increased funding for immigration enforcement agents—is under national debate, Vasquez won’t say whether he supports any of its border provisions.

Vasquez’s unwillingness to take a stand—on either the Cristo Rey wall extension or the broader border funding—shows a troubling pattern of dodging responsibility while his constituents face the real consequences of his inaction. But since Vasquez’s previous statements speak volumes, it’s a sure bet Vasquez remains as radically open-borders as before.

With New Mexico communities overwhelmed by cross-border crime and federal agents stretched thin, Vasquez’s silence speaks volumes.

‘Had to run’: Vasquez flees border wall question during press briefing Read More »

Trump sends millions to flooded Ruidoso—but Dems refuse to give him credit

16 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

President Donald J. Trump on Thursday took swift action to aid New Mexicans reeling from catastrophic flash floods, approving a federal disaster declaration that will unlock emergency funds for Lincoln, Chaves, Otero, and Valencia counties. The move brings much-needed relief to communities devastated by deadly flooding earlier this week, particularly in the Village of Ruidoso.

The flash floods—triggered by intense monsoon rains on terrain already scarred by last year’s South Fork Fire—have left at least three people dead, including two young children. Between 200 and 400 homes were damaged or destroyed as torrents of water tore through neighborhoods, leaving behind wreckage and heartache.

Thanks to President Trump’s direct authorization, over $3 million in FEMA assistance and $12 million in expected USDA funding will now be deployed to aid in recovery. His quick decision ensured that federal aid would be made available without delay, bringing hope and relief to families trying to rebuild.

But while Trump acted decisively, some Democrat politicians chose to politicize the moment. During a press conference Thursday morning, Rep. Melanie Stansbury refused to acknowledge the president’s role in approving the aid. Instead of thanking President Trump, she vaguely praised the “federal government,” refusing to utter his name even as his administration delivered the critical help her constituents desperately needed.

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham visited Ruidoso that morning to survey the damage and meet with emergency responders. While she acknowledged that the federal government had reached out and was mobilizing resources, she, too, stopped short of giving President Trump credit for the declaration. Her comments focused on “federal partners” and “Washington support,” avoiding recognition of the leader who signed the order.

Meanwhile, Ruidoso Mayor Lynn Crawford spoke emotionally about the toll on the community, and local emergency personnel continue to work around the clock to manage the response. Hundreds remain displaced, with more rain forecast in the coming days, adding urgency to recovery efforts.

Congressman Gabe Vasquez, another Democrat on the scene, offered statements of concern but little substance, as residents continue demanding real action, not just photo ops.

In contrast, President Trump’s rapid and decisive leadership provided real results. The federal disaster declaration will unlock crucial funding to support displaced families, rebuild infrastructure, and reinforce emergency response efforts before more storms arrive.

While partisan politicians hesitate to give credit where it’s due, the people of New Mexico can see the truth: President Trump delivered when it mattered. His action is helping communities like Ruidoso get back on their feet, and no amount of political spin can change that.

Trump sends millions to flooded Ruidoso—but Dems refuse to give him credit Read More »

Horrific Ruidoso flood footage: Houses floating away as streets become rivers

8 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Torrential monsoon rains are once again slamming the fire-ravaged mountain town of Ruidoso, triggering dangerous flash flooding across the region Tuesday afternoon. The area, still reeling from the devastation left behind by the 2024 South Fork Fire, is now under an urgent Flash Flood Emergency, with residents being warned to seek higher ground immediately.

ABC News Chief Meteorologist Ginger Zee issued a dire warning on X, noting, “NEW MEXICO: flash flood emergency once again includes Ruidoso.” The National Weather Service reports that between 1.5 and 2.5 inches of rain have already fallen, with up to another half inch possible—a seemingly modest total, but one that can be life-threatening in post-wildfire terrain.

“Ruidoso has been plagued by flash flooding events since the South Fork Fire left a major burn scar in the area in 2024,” Zee explained. “Several significant flash flood events hit the area last year following the fire, and flash floods have hit the area again in recent weeks. It’s now monsoon season for the region, which brings a greater chance for thunderstorms and downpours.”

The threat stems from the way burn scars alter the landscape. “While 1-2 inches may not seem like a lot of rain,” Zee cautioned, “recent wildfire burn scar areas are especially prone to dangerous flash flooding and could also trigger debris flows and mudslides.” The soil, scorched and hydrophobic, loses its ability to absorb water, turning even light rainfall into torrents of destruction.

That destruction is already underway. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Albuquerque confirmed that floodwaters have reached roads and homes. Photos released by the agency show the Rio Ruidoso rising dramatically in the Hollywood neighborhood, with time-lapse images capturing a stark change in the river’s depth in under an hour. Footage shows houses floating away and extreme damage.

According to KTSM 9 News’ Andy Morgan, “The Village of Ruidoso confirms three people, including two children (4 and 7), have died as a result historic flash flooding that ripped through town on Tuesday. The victims were swept downstream by unprecedented floodwaters.”

“A DANGEROUS situation is unfolding in RUIDOSO!” warned the NWS in a now-viral post. “A FLASH FLOOD EMERGENCY remains in effect! Seek HIGHER GROUND NOW! Do NOT attempt to drive through the floodwaters. The current will carry away your vehicle!”

Videos shared across social media paint a grim picture. One clip shows an entire home being swept away by the surging Rio Ruidoso—water levels reportedly surged 20 feet in just 30 minutes. Another shows debris-choked floodwaters rushing through neighborhoods, dragging anything in their path.

Meteorologists are calling this another “catastrophic flood event” for the region. “Several inches of rain has fallen on burn scars from fires,” wrote a Fox35 Orlando meteorologist. “The Ruidoso River in NM rose by 20 feet+ in less than an hour, shattering a record. Videos are coming in now showing homes floating down the Ruidoso River.”

The flash flood warning for Ruidoso remains in effect until at least 7:15 PM MDT, though more storms could follow. Officials urge residents to remain alert and avoid all flood-prone areas, even after rainfall ceases.

The broader region is on edge after last week’s deadly flooding in Kerr County, Texas, where over 100 lives were lost and more than 160 remain missing. That tragic event highlights how quickly flash floods can escalate into full-blown disasters.

Horrific Ruidoso flood footage: Houses floating away as streets become rivers Read More »

Republican enters fray while Dems claw to keep control of NM Land Office

12 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Conservative Chaves County Commissioner Michael Perry officially launched his campaign Monday for New Mexico Commissioner of Public Lands, offering voters a grounded, experienced alternative to what’s shaping up to be a far-left field of Democrat candidates.

Perry, a Roswell native with over two decades managing and protecting New Mexico’s lands and wildlife, is seeking the Republican nomination to bring what he calls “balance, common sense, and real-world experience” back to the Land Office. He previously served as Major of Southern Field Operations with the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, and later as Assistant Land Commissioner under Republican Aubrey Dunn. Perry currently serves as Vice Chair of the Chaves County Commission and represents New Mexico on the National Association of Counties’ Public Lands Committee.

“The land in New Mexico is in my blood,” Perry said in his announcement. “I’ve protected it, fought for it, and managed it for over 20 years. I’m running because New Mexico deserves a Land Commissioner who knows the land, respects the people, and understands the responsibility.”

Photo of Michael Perry, Republican candidate for NM State Land Commissioner.

The Land Office controls nearly 9 million acres of surface land and 13 million mineral acres — with revenue from those lands generating over $2 billion annually for public education and other state programs. Perry argues that rural New Mexicans and working families are being ignored in favor of radical environmentalism and anti-industry politics.

“I’ve seen firsthand how far-left policies threaten our energy producers, farmers, ranchers, and educators,” Perry said. “We need someone who can responsibly manage our public lands without sacrificing jobs or crippling local economies.”

While Perry offers a resume rooted in land stewardship, the Democrat field is already stacking up with candidates pushing extreme progressive agendas.

State Rep. Matthew McQueen, a Santa Fe-area Democrat known for his combative and elitist style in the Legislature, has entered the race pledging to go after the oil and gas industry and expand burdensome regulations. McQueen has long been at odds with rural voices and has supported legislation undermining private landowners and energy producers.

Joining him is Jonas Moya, a Tucumcari rancher and former Biden administration appointee who’s expected to be a rubber stamp for federal overreach and climate mandates from Washington, D.C. Moya brings insider connections but little to suggest he’ll challenge the extreme environmentalist policies that have hurt working New Mexicans.

Also running is Juan Sanchez, a former Army Corps bureaucrat and consultant to the Acequia Commission, whose campaign leans heavily into climate activism and expanding government control of land and water usage.

Together, the three Democrats offer a vision of government-run land management more beholden to left-wing pressure groups than the farmers, ranchers, hunters, and energy workers who depend on New Mexico’s land for their livelihoods.

Perry says he’ll stand firm in defense of responsible energy development, private property rights, and keeping land productive for future generations.

“I’ve served in the field, in the Roundhouse, and in the State Land Office,” Perry said. “Now I’m ready to serve all New Mexicans — not just the ones who live in Santa Fe and push papers for a living.”

With Democrats turning the race into a contest of who can pander hardest to the environmental lobby, Perry’s entry gives voters a clear choice between common-sense stewardship and radical politics in the 2026 election.

Republican enters fray while Dems claw to keep control of NM Land Office Read More »

‘Your SSN is suspended!’ — The shocking new scam targeting New Mexicans

6 Comments / New Mexico, News / By

New Mexicans are being warned to stay alert as a wave of phishing scams impersonating the Social Security Administration (SSA) continues to target unsuspecting residents with alarming emails designed to steal personal information or infect their devices with malware.

These types of scams aren’t new—but they’re growing more sophisticated and increasingly localized. One particularly dangerous variation is the SSA phishing scam, which falsely claims that your Social Security number is under investigation for serious crimes like drug trafficking and money laundering. Some of these fraudulent emails even cite alleged criminal activity in states like Texas and New Mexico to lend an air of credibility and fear.

One recent phishing email read:

“We are conducting an ongoing inquiry into your Social Security Number and identity due to suspected links to drug trafficking. A series of international wire transfers to accounts on the Federal Trade Commission’s restricted list has been flagged. There have been reports of suspicious activities associated with your Social Security Number in Texas and New Mexico… The Texas Court has directed the suspension of your Social Security Number due to its association with money laundering activities involving your bank accounts.”

These messages often look official, citing agencies like the SSA, the FTC, and even state attorneys general. They typically claim that your SSN is about to be suspended unless you take immediate action—usually by clicking a link or downloading a document. Of course, doing so can install malware, steal your data, or lead to financial fraud.

Why These Scams Work

Scammers rely on two key psychological tactics: urgency and impersonation. By claiming your SSN is linked to criminal activity and suggesting law enforcement or legal action is imminent, they aim to push you into panic mode. Once you’re scared, you’re more likely to act without thinking—exactly what scammers want.

They also overwhelm the victim with legal-sounding jargon and multi-state references to make the situation appear complicated and beyond the control of the average citizen. That’s where many victims freeze—and click the link.

How to Spot These Fake Emails

Legitimate communications from the Social Security Administration will:

  • Address you by your full legal name—not “Dear recipient” or “User.”
  • Never threaten you with arrest or suspend your SSN over email.
  • Never request sensitive personal information or payments via email.

In contrast, scam emails tend to be vague, grammatically inconsistent, and heavy-handed in their threats. If you receive a message like this, don’t click anything.

10 Ways New Mexicans Can Protect Themselves

  1. Pause when the message feels urgent. Government agencies don’t demand immediate action or payment through emails, especially not with threats of jail or SSN suspension.
  2. Use reliable antivirus protection. Strong antivirus software can flag suspicious emails, dangerous websites, and malicious downloads.
  3. Reduce your digital footprint. Your data may be exposed online. Consider using data removal services to scrub your information from broker sites.
  4. Use multiple emails. Keep your financial, shopping, and public emails separate to limit exposure.
  5. Check your credit and SSA account regularly. Free credit monitoring and reviewing your SSA statement can help you catch fraud early.
  6. Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA). Adding an extra verification step protects your online accounts even if your password is stolen.
  7. Use strong, unique passwords. A password manager can help create and store secure logins.
  8. Keep your devices updated. Security patches close vulnerabilities that scammers exploit.
  9. Consider identity theft protection. Services can monitor your SSN, alert you to suspicious activity, and help freeze your accounts in emergencies.
  10. Report phishing attempts.
  • Forward phishing emails to: reportphishing@apwg.org
  • Report SSA scams: oig.ssa.gov/report
  • File a report with the FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov

The New Mexico Context

Residents across the Land of Enchantment should be especially cautious. Scammers often localize their messages by naming states like New Mexico in their threats to increase believability. With our proximity to the southern border and recent high-profile criminal enforcement stories, some emails even attempt to link recipients to fictitious drug trafficking networks.

If you or someone you know has received one of these emails, stay calm, don’t engage, and report it. Spreading awareness could prevent someone in your community from becoming the next victim.

Final Takeaway

Phishing scams are evolving, but the core tactic is the same: instill fear, urgency, and confusion to make you act without thinking. With a skeptical eye and good digital habits, you can protect yourself—and your Social Security number—from these criminals.

Stay safe, New Mexico.

‘Your SSN is suspended!’ — The shocking new scam targeting New Mexicans Read More »

U.S. citizen caught smuggling 13 illegals under flatbed near Deming

17 Comments / New Mexico, News / By

In a striking victory for border security and President Donald J. Trump’s strengthened immigration enforcement agenda, U.S. Border Patrol agents near Deming, New Mexico, intercepted a tractor-trailer smuggling 13 illegal aliens in a covert and dangerous operation orchestrated by a Maryland-based U.S. citizen. The late-night bust highlights the effectiveness of President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” and the reinvigorated border force’s commitment to cracking down on transnational criminal enterprises.

According to court records and a criminal complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico, agents with the Deming Station Disrupt Unit were monitoring Interstate 10 around 12:25 a.m. on June 25 when they spotted a suspicious red International tractor-trailer hauling an empty flatbed—a common tactic used by smugglers to conceal human cargo. The vehicle, with Maryland and Maine plates, attempted to bypass a known Border Patrol checkpoint by taking a circuitous route north on Gold Road and east on State Road 26.

Upon pulling the vehicle over near mile marker 11, agents encountered 40-year-old Jarol Wilberto Arroyo-Cerin, who initially appeared cooperative. After granting permission to search the cab, agents discovered one woman hiding inside. Further inspection revealed a shocking sight: 12 more individuals crammed into hidden compartments, including under the flatbed, laying on wooden boards and rubber mats—conditions described by witnesses as dangerous, uncomfortable, and terrifying.

The 13 smuggled individuals originated from Mexico, Guatemala, and Ecuador, including an unaccompanied minor. All admitted to illegally crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, primarily near Mount Cristo Rey. Witnesses detailed how they were picked up in black vehicles and delivered to a semi-truck at a shopping mall in El Paso. One material witness stated the driver gave specific instructions to hide in the trailer’s floor compartment—an area so cramped and unstable it left them fearing for their life.

Following his arrest, Arroyo-Cerin confessed to agents that he had repeatedly transported illegal aliens—about six at a time—on at least five prior occasions. He was allegedly recruited at a truck stop in Albuquerque by a known associate working with smuggling operations and was being paid per person.

Arroyo-Cerin now faces federal charges for conspiracy to bring in and transport illegal aliens, a felony under 8 U.S.C. § 1324. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison.

U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and El Paso Sector Border Patrol Chief Walter N. Slosar announced the charges, praising the agents’ work as part of Operation Take Back America—a DOJ-led initiative championed under President Trump’s administration to destroy cartels, eliminate transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and repel the ongoing invasion at the southern border.

“This case proves that our border agents, empowered under President Trump’s leadership, are doing what it takes to dismantle smuggling networks and protect American communities,” said Ellison. “We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to uphold the rule of law and deliver justice.”

The investigation was led by the U.S. Border Patrol with prosecution by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Tonkin under the Department of Justice’s coordinated crackdown on illegal immigration and organized crime.

With America’s renewed commitment to border enforcement, operations like this show that the days of open borders and unchecked smuggling are over. President Trump’s immigration force is not only back—it’s working.

U.S. citizen caught smuggling 13 illegals under flatbed near Deming Read More »

Dems turn their backs on Downwinders while prioritizing criminal aliens

13 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

As cancer-stricken American citizens in New Mexico and across the West wait for long-overdue justice, Democrats in Congress continue to stall life-saving compensation for the very people harmed by their own government’s nuclear testing during the mid-1940s— all while fast-tracking benefits and protections for criminal illegal aliens paid for exclusively by the American taxpayer.

Senate Republicans have stepped up where Democrats failed, passing a sweeping tax and spending package — dubbed the “big, beautiful bill” — that includes a long-fought expansion of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA). This program, which expired over a year ago thanks to congressional inaction, provides financial relief to those exposed to deadly radiation during the U.S. government’s atomic testing and uranium mining efforts.

The bill, if passed by the House, would finally extend compensation to downwinders in New Mexico, Utah, and Idaho — people who were left out of the original RECA coverage despite overwhelming scientific evidence that they were blanketed in fallout from Cold War-era nuclear explosions. It also adds coverage for communities in Missouri, Tennessee, Alaska, and Kentucky affected by the Manhattan Project.

“This is generational legislation for Missouri and will finally deliver justice for survivors in the St. Louis region,” said Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO), who championed the provision. “I call on the House to quickly pass this legislation and send it to President Trump’s desk.”

The updated bill raises the compensation amount to $100,000, loosens residency requirements, and extends eligibility for uranium workers across 11 states — including New Mexico. RECA had previously offered only $50,000 to $75,000 and restricted access to a small handful of counties, leaving thousands of Americans with no help as they battled radiation-linked diseases.

It’s a monumental shift — but one that Democrats in the House are once again threatening to derail.

U.S. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM), instead of applauding this long-overdue relief for her own constituents, bizarrely took a swipe at House Republicans for allowing the program to lapse in the first place — conveniently ignoring that the entirely Democrat New Mexico delegation, despite years of control, failed to pass an expansion. “While the broader Billionaires Budget Bill is deeply harmful in many ways,” she scoffed, “we are glad some Republicans are finally recognizing the value of RECA.”

This kind of callous rhetoric insults the intelligence — and the suffering — of downwinders across New Mexico. These are not wealthy elites or partisan activists. They are ordinary families who were poisoned by their own government and then abandoned by elected officials too busy pandering to illegal immigrants and radical special interests.

As open-border Democrats fight to fund hotel stays, legal aid, and health care for criminal aliens, they simultaneously claim RECA’s $7.7 billion price tag is just too much to bear. Meanwhile, actual American citizens — veterans, ranchers, Navajo uranium workers, and children born in the radioactive shadow of nuclear blasts — continue to die waiting for relief.

RECA was never a partisan issue. It’s about righting a historical wrong. And yet, it has been Republicans — not Democrats — who finally took meaningful action to make these Americans whole.

People like far-left Rep. Gabe Vasquez used the Downwinders as political fodder during campaign season, but now, while he could be the difference to making them whole again, the entire Democrat caucus in the U.S. House — including him — have vowed to reject compensating them by voting against the bill.

The House now holds the key. Will Democrats finally put Americans first — or will they once again prioritize lawbreakers over the law-abiding?

Dems turn their backs on Downwinders while prioritizing criminal aliens Read More »

Far-left Dem McQueen to leave NM House, vie for higher office

16 Comments / Editorial, New Mexico, News, Politics / By

One of the most prickly, petulant, and downright disagreeable members of the New Mexico Legislature is finally throwing in the towel — at least in the House. Six-term Democrat Matthew McQueen announced he will not seek reelection to the Legislature, instead launching a bid for New Mexico Commissioner of Public Lands in 2026. For New Mexicans fed up with McQueen’s arrogance, condescension, and far-left extremism, the news is both a relief and a warning.

In a press release riddled with political posturing, McQueen declared, “I have the proven record of standing up to bullies and corruption.” But for many New Mexicans, McQueen has been the bully. His track record is one of vindictiveness, elitism, and hostility toward working-class values and rural communities.

Case in point: Edgewood, 2023. When the small town’s commissioners voted to uphold federal law through a pro-life ordinance consistent with the Comstock Act, McQueen threatened to retaliate. “I’m just going to have to reconsider how I allocate my capital outlay,” he sneered, implying he’d withhold funding from his own constituents. When a commissioner called out the threat, McQueen smugly doubled down: “Well, if you want to take it that way.”

He then insulted the town outright, saying, “Edgewood is insignificant.” That’s not standing up to bullies — that is being a bully.

Then there’s his radical land agenda. In 2023, McQueen pushed a sweeping “30 by 30”-style land grab bill — HB 45 — designed to gobble up New Mexico land in the name of “conservation,” which would have devastated working farmers, ranchers, and hunters. His bill was so extreme that even Democrats on the committee joined Republicans to kill it. Rural New Mexico sent a clear message: hands off our land.

McQueen’s abrasiveness isn’t confined to policy. His social media tirades have also drawn ire. In October 2022, he lashed out when confronted with facts about the horrific reality of late-term abortions and infanticide at UNM Hospital, angrily calling it “dangerous” and “disgusting.” But the receipts were undeniable, including testimony from abortionist Eve Espey herself, admitting babies were born alive and left to die. McQueen never apologized for smearing those who told the truth.

McQueen was also a major proponent of extreme gerrymandering of the state’s congressional map to benefit Democrats, resulting in all three of the state’s districts being pushed to the far left and hundreds of thousands of voters left disenfranchised, all while McQueen’s district got bluer. His rhetoric and inclination toward disagreement with all sides is likely not to land him many endorsements from the Legislature.

Now, this far-left trial lawyer wants to control 22 million acres of New Mexico’s trust land and minerals as State Land Commissioner — an office that generates over $2 billion annually for our schools and public institutions. He promises to “build on the successes” of radical incumbent Stephanie Garcia Richard and eco-activists like Jim Baca.

That should concern every New Mexican who values oil and gas jobs, property rights, and responsible land use.

While McQueen cloaks his ambition in lofty rhetoric about education and conservation, his record is clear: punish small towns, lie about abortion, push radical environmental schemes, and fight for far-left causes. He may call it “leadership.” Most New Mexicans call it being a condescending, gaslighting windbag.

Far-left Dem McQueen to leave NM House, vie for higher office Read More »

Stansbury refuses to eat crow at DOGE hearing after humiliating math fail

27 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

During a recent House Oversight subcommittee hearing on DOGE, Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-NM) presented a visual aid that raised eyebrows for its mathematical inconsistency. 

The graphic, intended to illustrate polling data, displayed percentages that totaled 110%—an obvious statistical error that went unnoticed.

Rep. Brian Jack (R-GA) pointed out the discrepancy during the hearing, stating, “The poll behind you, behind our ranking member, it adds up to 110 percent. Just wanted to clarify, is it meant to add up to 110 percent, or is that an error?”

Percentages, by definition, should total 100%. The mistake drew attention not just because of the numbers themselves, but also because the error was presented in an official congressional setting. Rather than acknowledge the miscalculation, Rep. Stansbury stood by the data.

“This is from a Quinnipiac poll that was held two weeks ago, and this is the data that was provided,” Stansbury responded. “There’s a wealth of information, including information about Donald Trump’s falling poll numbers. So you should take a look.”

Her response, while redirecting attention to the source of the data, did not address the basic flaw in the chart’s presentation. The exchange gave additional ammunition to Republican members of the committee, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), who weighed in with her own observation.

“The gentleman yields, and it still adds up to 110 percent!” Greene said. “That’s a fake poll right there!”

While mistakes can certainly happen, especially when dealing with large volumes of data, the incident has sparked questions about attention to detail from Rep. Stansbury’s office. Misrepresenting numbers—particularly in a public setting meant to inform congressional discussions—can undermine credibility, regardless of party affiliation.

As of publication, Rep. Stansbury’s office has not responded to inquiries about whether she is aware of the numerical error in the graphic.

Stansbury refuses to eat crow at DOGE hearing after humiliating math fail Read More »

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