Piñon Post

Finally! A list where NM ranks at the top — and it’s delicious

7 Comments / New Mexico / By

In a rare showing that puts New Mexico near the top rather than the bottom of a national ranking, the Land of Enchantment has emerged as one of the biggest ice cream-loving states in America, second only to New Jersey.

According to a recent nationwide survey of 5,000 Americans conducted by Talker Research and commissioned by Undeniably Dairy for National Ice Cream Month, 56% of New Mexicans proudly identify as “ice cream connoisseurs.” That’s just two points behind New Jersey’s 58%, which took the top spot. Tied for third were California, Kansas, New York, and North Dakota at 55%.

It’s a refreshing bit of good news for a state more commonly associated with grim statistics — bottom-five rankings in education, child well-being, and public safety. But when it comes to America’s favorite frozen treat, New Mexico stands out as a top-tier contender.

The study also found that America’s favorite flavors are still the classics: chocolate topped the list at 15%, followed by vanilla and mint chocolate chip at 12% each.

Yet the joy of a summer scoop is about to get even sweeter — and healthier — thanks to efforts led by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

On Monday, the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), representing over 40 major ice cream brands, announced it will phase out all artificial, petroleum-based dyes by the end of 2027. This sweeping change comes after growing pressure from Kennedy’s office to clean up America’s food supply by eliminating unnecessary synthetic additives.

“I’m particularly happy to be here today because this is relevant to my favorite food, which is ice cream,” said Kennedy during a press event celebrating the announcement. “This is a great day for dairy and it’s a great day for Make America Healthy Again,” he added, referencing his health-focused initiative echoing President Trump’s “Make America Great Again” mantra.

The artificial colorings being phased out — including Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1 — have been linked in studies to ADHD, cancer, and other health concerns. While banned in countries like Canada and across Europe, these dyes are still prevalent in many American foods — though that’s beginning to change.

Industry leaders, including Turkey Hill CEO Andy Jacobs, acknowledged the move is in step with shifting consumer preferences. “By taking this step now, ice cream manufacturers are ensuring that ice cream remains a special part of our lives as consumer preferences change and the nation’s regulatory priorities evolve,” Jacobs said.

The ice cream industry contributes roughly $12 billion to the U.S. economy and supports more than 27,000 jobs. Americans consume around 19 pounds of ice cream per year on average — and New Mexicans are clearly among the most enthusiastic consumers.

While the FDA under Joe Biden moved to ban Red Dye No. 3 outright, RFK Jr. has taken a “peer pressure” approach — and it’s working. Between 35% and 40% of the U.S. food industry has pledged to remove artificial dyes, with big names like Nestle, General Mills, and PepsiCo already on board.

The voluntary pledge from ice cream makers, however, goes even further — extending the transition deadline beyond Kennedy’s original target to give companies time to rework their recipes without synthetic dyes.

For ice cream lovers in New Mexico and beyond, it’s a win-win: a cleaner scoop and proof that sometimes, the sweetest victories come when states and industries embrace common-sense health reforms.

Finally! A list where NM ranks at the top — and it’s delicious Read More »

Pope and Garcia Richard race to the bottom in radical Democrat primary

15 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

The race for New Mexico’s next lieutenant governor is already shaping up to be another bruising Democrat slugfest, with two far-left figures vying for power: State Sen. Harold Pope and State Land Commissioner Stephanie Garcia Richard.

On Monday, Pope—an Albuquerque Democrat known for pushing fringe legislation—formally announced his candidacy for the state’s second-highest executive post. Though the news comes as little surprise—Pope had already filed a campaign committee—his campaign rollout confirms a broader attempt by far-left ideologues to entrench themselves deeper in New Mexico’s executive leadership.

Pope told Source New Mexico that he’s running to have a “full-time voice” in the executive branch, claiming he can do more “on the fourth floor” than as a legislator. But his record tells a different story.

Pope has repeatedly aligned with the most radical policies in Santa Fe. He pushed legislation to force sexual education standards onto children as young as 11, regardless of parental consent. He voted to funnel taxpayer-funded college tuition to illegal immigrants through House Bill 64. He backed a payroll tax scheme (Senate Bill 3) that would’ve slammed both small businesses and workers. And he supported legislation that would have imposed centralized housing mandates across the state and cemented extreme environmentalist policies that threaten New Mexico’s oil, gas, and agricultural sectors.

These are not the positions of a moderate or a reformer—they’re part of a nationalized left-wing agenda that is already bleeding New Mexico dry. It also doesn’t help that he jumped on TikTok to advocate for a violent MS-13 gang member, among a slew of other wild takes that have been fully archived by the Piñon Post and will surely be pure gold come the general election, if Pope wins the nomination. 

But Pope isn’t alone. His top Democrat opponent so far is Stephanie Garcia Richard, the scandal-prone Commissioner of Public Lands. Her tenure has been riddled with controversy, including repeated clashes with New Mexico ranchers, lease mismanagement, and failure to balance the state’s economic interests with environmental stewardship. Instead of maximizing returns for New Mexico’s public schools—one of her core responsibilities—Garcia Richard has pursued a rigid green agenda that has alienated key industries and rural communities alike.

Garcia Richard also grabbed headlines for trying to strip the New Mexico State Land Office of transparency and legislative oversight, drawing sharp criticism even from within her own party. Her long track record of pushing anti-development policies makes her a hard sell outside progressive strongholds like Santa Fe.

Also in the race is Jackie Lee Onsurez, a village councilor from Loving, and Republican Manuel Lardizabal, who previously ran for a state Senate seat in Albuquerque.

But the real battle—for now—is within the Democrat Party, where Pope and Garcia Richard are expected to clash in what is shaping up to be a bitter primary. Both represent the far-left flank of the party, and both come with glaring vulnerabilities. While Pope barely held onto his Senate seat in 2024, Garcia Richard continues to face scrutiny over her political decisions and failed stewardship of state lands as she continually jumps from office to office.

With a primary set for June 2, 2026, New Mexico voters will once again be asked to choose between competing versions of the same radical playbook—unless common-sense leadership steps in to break the cycle.

As the Democrat candidates trip over each other to race to the left, conservatives are watching closely. The 2026 election may be the best opportunity yet to finally reverse the state’s dangerous slide toward California-style policies that have already caused so much harm.

Pope and Garcia Richard race to the bottom in radical Democrat primary Read More »

Vasquez tells illegals how to evade ICE after refusing to condemn violent riots

26 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez, who once branded himself a moderate, is now openly championing far-left positions on immigration enforcement, drawing sharp contrasts with other border-district Democrats who have avoided taking sides on the issue.

Vasquez, serving his second term in Congress representing southern New Mexico, condemned recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Los Angeles, claiming the Trump administration is “transforming our streets into war zones.” He went a step further by voting against a House resolution condemning violent riots that erupted in response to those raids — riots that included Molotov cocktails being thrown at agents and patrol vehicles set ablaze.

Instead of distancing himself from the anti-ICE violence, Vasquez has actively encouraged resistance to immigration enforcement. His official congressional website instructs undocumented individuals that they “do not have to open the door” to federal agents and that they “do not have to share your immigration status or your place of birth.” He also promotes the idea that individuals “can report and document raids and arrests to share with attorneys and advocacy organizations.”

Vasquez’s advice comes in the wake of several reported attacks on ICE agents in cities such as Portland, Oregon, and McAllen, Texas.

His outspoken stance places him at odds with other vulnerable Democrats in border regions. Texas Reps. Vicente Gonzalez and Henry Cuellar, both representing districts along the southern border, remained silent on the ICE operations in Los Angeles. Cuellar even joined six fellow Democrats in voting to condemn the riots. In total, five Democrats facing tough re-election campaigns backed the resolution, which passed on June 27. Vasquez voted against it.

The New Mexico lawmaker also opposed the bipartisan Laken Riley Act, which mandates that illegal immigrants accused of violent crimes be detained without bond. Rather than shy away from his controversial vote, Vasquez celebrated it as an act of “courage.”

These radical positions stand in stark contrast to Vasquez’s campaign image. During his previous races, he promised to ensure “a safe and secure border.” He narrowly won re-election in 2024, despite prior revelations that he had used a racial slur in a threatening 2004 voicemail.

In 2020, Vasquez posted content supporting calls to abolish both ICE and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. One tweet he reposted claimed, “ICE is committing genocide.”

In another 2020 interview, where he appeared under a fake name and wore a mask, Vasquez called for the defunding of police. “It’s not just about defunding police, it’s about defunding a system that privileges white people over everyone else,” he said.

Vasquez’s office has not responded to media inquiries regarding his recent comments or votes. In contrast, he has actually jumped out of press conferences where he was confronted on his stance regarding the border.

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

Vasquez tells illegals how to evade ICE after refusing to condemn violent riots Read More »

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

21 Comments / 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

32 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 »

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