Piñon Post

NM SOS accuses Piñon Post editor of threats for asking about voter ID

45 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In a strange turn of events, far-left Democrat New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver accused state Rep. John Block (R-Alamogordo), the editor and founder of the Piñon Post, of making threats and harassing her via X, formerly Twitter, cooking up a conspiracy after he asked her about implementing voter ID in the state. She later declared she was going dark on the platform following backlash after she laughed at constituents about voter ID, changing her account “@NMSOSMaggie” to private, although the use of her title makes the page public — a violation of law, according to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Toulouse Oliver’s departure from the platform came shortly after the general election, during which she sought to share insights into election results and processes. However, she claimed that some of the backlash, including alleged threats and harassment, originated from Block, who did not make such threats.

During a legislative committee meeting, Toulouse Oliver accused unnamed members of the committee of contributing to the toxic environment online. Later, her office singled out Rep. Block, labeling him and Piñon Post a “frequent purveyor of false and misleading information” about elections. Block has been vocal in his push for voter ID laws in New Mexico and has criticized Toulouse Oliver’s stance against such measures.

“I wouldn’t say that he was like, the ring leader, but he was certainly getting in on the pile-on and, I think, helping to foment the anger and some of the nasty comments,” she said to one outlet.

In response, Block told the Santa Fe New Mexican, “If she thinks that asking questions about why she doesn’t support voter ID is a threat, then she’s got the thinnest skin I’ve ever seen in my life,” emphasizing that political debate should not be conflated with harassment. He further argued that Toulouse Oliver’s characterization of criticism as harassment reflects an attempt to silence dissent and control the narrative around New Mexico’s elections.

Toulouse Oliver, who has historically opposed voter ID measures, reiterated her belief that such laws are unnecessary. “That is a solution in search of a problem,” she said during the committee meeting, dismissing Block’s proposals as lacking evidence of widespread voter fraud.

The tension escalated after Toulouse Oliver shared that she would file a report with law enforcement regarding the threats she faced, which she said were “egged on” by Block’s rhetoric. Block countered by highlighting the lack of evidence directly tying him to any threatening behavior and called her allegations politically motivated. “The secretary of state is probably the biggest purveyor of propaganda, fake news, lies, and clearly orchestrated headlines to get attention,” he charged, framing her accusations as a tactic to deflect from genuine questions about election security.

Block’s criticism of Toulouse Oliver’s opposition to voter ID laws has resonated with many New Mexicans, particularly given polling that shows broad support for such measures, with Gallup finding 84% of Americans support the commonsense measure that upholds election security. 

While Toulouse Oliver maintains that her resistance stems from concerns about voter suppression, Block and his supporters see it as dismissing legitimate concerns about election integrity.

This clash highlights a broader debate on voter security in New Mexico. For Block, questioning election policies and advocating for voter ID is about protecting democracy. 

For Toulouse Oliver, such benign questions represent a dangerous incitement that threatens election officials, and it appears she is not open to the will of the people of New Mexico.

NM Sec. of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver laughs at constituents who want voter ID

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These New Mexicans could be considered for posts in Trump admin.

19 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In the latest news surrounding potential appointments by President-elect Donald Trump to his administration, at least two prominent New Mexico figures, former Congresswoman Yvette Herrell and New Mexico Public Education Commissioner Sharon Clahchischilliage, are reportedly being considered by their supporters for major roles in a prospective Trump administration. Herrell, who represented New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District, is seen by many as a strong contender for Secretary of the Interior, while Clahchischilliage has been floated as a possible director of the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Herrell, a staunch conservative and ardent Trump supporter, served one term in Congress after winning a hotly contested race in 2020 against an incumbent Democrat. Being Cherokee, she became the first Native American woman elected to Congress. Her campaign centered on issues such as border security, Second Amendment rights, and economic development for rural New Mexico. Despite narrowly losing her reelection bid in 2022, Herrell has remained a vocal figure in the state’s political landscape.

During her time in Congress, she championed policies that aligned with the Trump administration’s priorities, including reducing regulatory red tape on public lands, advocating for the oil and gas industry, and strengthening U.S. energy independence. Herrell’s support base believes her commitment to these issues makes her a strong fit to lead the Department of the Interior, which oversees vast swathes of public lands and plays a key role in energy policy. The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) manages approximately 34.72% of New Mexico’s total land area, equating to about 27 million acres out of the state’s 77.8 million acres.

Meanwhile, Sharon Clahchischilliage, a member of the Navajo Nation and the current New Mexico Public Education Commissioner, has garnered attention as a potential pick for director of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Clahchischilliage has an extensive record of public service, including time as a state legislator where she focused on education, economic development, and tribal sovereignty. 

Throughout her career, she has consistently advocated for policies that empower Native American communities, including measures to enhance educational opportunities and improve healthcare access. Clahchischilliage’s relationship with Trump dates back to her tenure as a Republican state representative, where she supported his administration’s initiatives on tribal affairs and sought to collaborate on improving federal-tribal relations.

Courtesey photo via former state Rep. Sharon Clahchischilliage.

Both Herrell and Clahchischilliage have shown unwavering loyalty to the former president, championing his policies and defending his record. Their potential appointments reflect Trump’s continued influence in Republican politics and underscore New Mexico’s role in shaping his prospective administration’s leadership. As speculation grows, both figures remain key players to watch in any future Trump administration announcements.

It is unclear what other New Mexicans could be considered to serve in Trump’s second administration. However, there may be other folks from the Land of Enchantment considered. Comment below which New Mexicans you would like to see join the Trump administration.

Trump ally Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. has launched a page on his website for Americans to nominate potential contenders to Trump’s cabinet called “Nominees for the People.” Citizens can nominate their favorite names to join the 45th and 47th President’s new administration.

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30 counties shift right: Trump’s monumental NM breakthrough

16 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In the 2024 presidential election, Donald Trump’s campaign saw notable gains in New Mexico, coming closer than any Republican candidate in decades to flipping the state.

Though Kamala Harris ultimately retained New Mexico by a margin of just 5.5 points, Trump’s performance showcased a dramatic shift, reflecting increased support from Hispanic and Native American communities as well as rural voters. Across 30 out of 33 counties, New Mexico experienced a noticeable rightward shift, giving hope to conservatives aiming for future victories.

Trump’s success was particularly evident in counties with large Hispanic and Native American populations. McKinley County, which is predominantly Native American, shifted 7 points toward Trump, marking one of the most significant movements. The impact of his outreach was consistent with national trends, as Politico noted: “The Trump campaign’s low-key efforts to court Native American voters appeared to have paid dividends. Across the map, in traditionally Democratic, predominantly Native American counties, Trump made noticeable inroads… New Mexico’s McKinley County saw an even bigger movement toward Trump.”

Counties with substantial Hispanic populations also leaned more toward Trump than in previous elections. Rio Arriba, Guadalupe, and Mora Counties all recorded 7-point swings to the right, demonstrating a growing conservative influence. Guadalupe County, for example, saw Trump capture 48% of the vote despite the area being heavily Democratic in registration, underscoring the shifting political landscape.

Notably, Trump’s gains were not limited to a few counties; he increased his vote share in 29 of the state’s 33 counties, showcasing broad-based appeal that transcended traditional GOP strongholds. Only three counties—Los Alamos, Sierra, and Union—saw a decrease in Trump’s support.

The top counties that shifted most toward Trump were McKinley, Rio Arriba, Guadalupe, Mora, San Miguel, Harding, Doña Ana, Socorro, Hidalgo, and Taos. These shifts indicate growing dissatisfaction with the Democratic Party’s grip in traditionally left-leaning areas and a potential path for Republican gains in future elections.

While Trump fell short of flipping the state, his substantial gains and the GOP’s overall momentum represent a historic opportunity for conservatives to turn New Mexico into a competitive battleground. This election was a hopeful sign that the state’s political landscape is evolving, offering new possibilities for Republicans in the years to come.

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Alamogordo Police Officer Anthony Ferguson’s murderer convicted

6 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

The Office of the Twelfth Judicial District Attorney announced on Friday, November 8, that Dominic De La O has been found guilty of first-degree murder and multiple other charges by an Otero County jury in connection with the fatal shooting of an Alamogordo police officer.

In addition to the murder charge, De La O was convicted of tampering with evidence, aggravated fleeing from law enforcement, criminal trespass, and two counts of resisting, evading, or obstructing an officer.

The verdict came after the jury heard testimony from 21 witnesses for the prosecution, who presented details about the events that occurred on July 15, 2023. 

According to the evidence presented, an officer from the Alamogordo Police Department initiated a traffic stop at the intersection of 9th Street and Puerto Rico Avenue in Alamogordo, New Mexico. While two passengers exited the vehicle and approached the officer with their hands raised, De La O took the driver’s seat and sped away.

During the subsequent pursuit, De La O collided with a light pole and attempted to flee on foot while armed with a sawed-off shotgun. He then turned and fatally shot Officer Anthony Ferguson. Ferguson was airlifted to the University Medical Center in El Paso but tragically died from his injuries on July 16, 2023.

The case was prosecuted by District Attorney Scot D. Key, with support from Deputy District Attorney Mikel Ward and Assistant District Attorney Ryan Suggs. “Key expressed his gratitude to the law enforcement community and all justice partners for their unwavering dedication and commitment to seeking justice in this case,” according to the official statement.

De La O will remain in custody until his sentencing, which is set for November 12 at 9:00 a.m. He faces a maximum sentence of life without parole, in addition to eight years and 361 days.

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NM Sec. of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver laughs at constituents who want voter ID

35 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

On Thursday, far-left Democrat New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver scoffed at voters asking why New Mexico does not have voter ID requirements.

The X account, “Mrs. Gen X,” who shared Elon Musk’s post about “[t]he few states that didn’t go red are mostly ones without voter ID requirements. Must be a coincidence,” quoted the post and tagged Oliver, writing, “#NewMexico needs voter ID!”

Oliver replied, “Correlation does not equal causation.”

In response to Mrs. Gen X’s post, the account “TDog73” wrote, “There’s a reason why she never posts on here anymore. She knows and she’s scares s—less,” to which Mrs. Gen X replied, “As she should be! Does she think coming back at me did her favor?! FAFO. Fired up & ready to make #NewMexico voting legit.” 

To that, Toulouse Oliver responded with a laughing/crying emoji,” a grave sign of disrespect to New Mexico voters.

Previously, Toulouse Oliver opposed voter ID bills sponsored by state Rep. John Block (R-Alamogordo), labeling the voter security measure as a way to suppress the votes of senior citizens and other groups. 

Block wrote, When I sponsored voter ID (HB110 in 2023 and HB223 in 2024), SOS Oliver claimed Voter ID is ‘voter suppression.’ She defies the 84% of Americans who support Voter ID. Wonder why???? If she believes in “democracy,” then why doesn’t she listen to what the people want?” 

As Block referenced, 84 percent of Americans support requiring “all voters to provide photo identification at their voting place in order to vote,” and 83 percent support requiring “people who are registering to vote for the first time to provide proof of citizenship,” according to a Gallup survey.

“Remind her that when she was [Bernalillo County Clerk], she advocated for [ID] to vote in mrgcd elections.  I was Chair, Dede Feldmans resolution creating [a] task force.   I still have everything. She was a piece of work,” wrote the account “NoFarmsNoFood” on X. 

Toulouse Oliver’s vehement opposition to requiring an ID to vote underscores the debate over securing New Mexico’s elections, especially given the high and unusual number of anomalies that have plagued the state’s elections in the last decade. 

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NM Dems now want ‘bipartisanship,’ unity after incessant hate

36 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Following President-elect Donald Trump’s incredible and historic victory in the election to become the 47th president of the United States, winning both the electoral and popular vote, New Mexico Democrats are taking a drastic turn from their partisanship.

After the Democrats’ decisive defeat, New Mexico Democrat politicians are trying to urge Republicans to now come to the table after leftists have gone on years-long tirades, legal battles, witch hunts, and attacks against Republicans, specifically supporters of President-elect Trump.

Sen. Martin Heinrich, who is now in the minority in the U.S. Senate, tried to have his cake and eat it, too, saying he wants Republicans to work with him to find “common ground,” while also bashing Trump, claiming he has an “extreme and divisive agenda.”

Far-left Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham released her own word salad statement, imploring unity with Republicans, who she has demeaned for six years as governor.

“With the election in the rear-view mirror, I encourage all New Mexicans––regardless of political affiliation––to come together and work in a bipartisan way to build on our successes and continue solving our shared challenges,” she wrote.

After the governor’s statement, state Rep. John Block (R-Alamogordo) wrote, “No. Expect the greatest possible amount of resistance every single step of the way these next two years. You have treated us like garbage for six long years, called us lizard people, bashed our sheriffs, snatched our rights, raised our taxes, killed our jobs, locked down our families, abused taxpayer dollars, settled sex assault claims, and bashed anyone who disagrees with you — even members of your own party — with hate and vitriol. Expect your agenda to stall and die on the vine because it’s time for ALL Republicans (and hopefully some Democrats) to unite to crush your extremist agenda, which has poisoned our once-great state. But we will heal our land. #MAGA”

In a different post, state Rep. Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) wrote, “New Mexican Democrat politicians need to pause for just a moment and reflect on the high number of people who voted for Trump here in our state. It was not a Kamala landslide by any means. Nearly half the people didn’t vote for her. That means that a large number of New Mexicans voted not only for Trump but also against everything Kamala stood for,” adding, “Americans are not on board with the radical progressive agenda that is consistently being pushed and marginalizes the moderate democrats, especially in New Mexico. I seriously hope you remember this when drafting bills for this next session.”

Far-left Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller wrote following Harris’ defeat a similar message to that of Heinrich and Lujan Grisham, writing, “As Mayor, I will always stand up for and serve every resident of our city. While many are anxious about what a second Trump presidency will mean, in [Albuquerque] we will continue to work together, respect one another, and fight for a better future for our families.” 

Other leftist politicians, such as New Mexico House Speaker Javier Martinez and New Mexico House Majority Whip Reena Szczepanski, defended Harris’ campaign and attempted to run cover for the lame-duck former Democrat nominee, while others, such as Rep. Melanie Stansbury attempted to inflame voters with the same tropes that led to their presidential election defeat, claiming Trump and his supporters are a “threat to democracy” and women’s rights.

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Trump wins presidency but narrowly misses historic New Mexico flip

40 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In a surprisingly strong showing, 45th President Donald Trump came closer than any Republican presidential candidate in recent memory to flipping New Mexico, a state that has been a Democratic stronghold for over two decades. 

Though ultimately falling short of victory in the state, Trump’s narrow loss in the state represents a seismic shift, giving Republicans renewed hope for future success in New Mexico. His performance signaled growing support for the GOP, driven by solid backing from rural and suburban areas and a deepening appeal among independent voters, losing the state by only around 5.5 points as opposed to 10 points in 2020 to Joe Biden. 

Despite narrowly missing in New Mexico, the 45th President will return to the White House for a second term after an incredible election night victory. As of 7:55 a.m., Trump leads Kamala Harris nationally with 277 electoral college delegates, while he is leading in the popular vote.

While Trump fell just shy of capturing New Mexico’s five electoral votes, the state witnessed significant Republican victories down-ballot. In a hotly contested race for New Mexico’s U.S. Senate seat, Republican Nella Domenici mounted a formidable campaign against incumbent Democrat Martin Heinrich. Domenici, leveraging her family’s political legacy and a platform focused on energy independence, economic revitalization, and conservative values, came within striking distance of Heinrich. Ultimately, Heinrich retained his seat by a slimmer margin than expected, with preliminary results showing a tight contest ending with Heinrich at 55% and Domenici at 45%.

Another key race saw far-left incumbent Democrat Rep. Gabe Vasquez defeat Republican former Congresswoman Yvette Herrell in New Mexico’s Second Congressional District. Herrell’s narrow loss proved how powerful extreme Democrat gerrymandering for political power can be in a state fully dominated by the far-left in the Legislature. 

Herrell wrote on X following the news, “The results tonight weren’t what we hoped for, but I’m so grateful to the incredible people of #NM02 for their support over the years. With @realDonaldTrump back in the White House, our country’s future is bright. Let’s come together and Make America Great Again!

Both of New Mexico’s other U.S. Reps. Melanie Stansbury and Teresa Leger Fernandez were reelected by 12-point margins.

However, nationally, Republicans lead in the fight to keep the U.S. House in GOP hands, while Republicans successfully flipped the U.S. Senate with pickups in Montana, Ohio, and West Virginia.

The GOP also made marginal gains in the state Legislature, picking up seats in both chambers. While Democrats retained their majorities, the Republican advances marked a significant step toward a more competitive political landscape. The party’s growth in traditionally blue districts has sparked optimism among New Mexico conservatives who see these results as evidence of a potential shift in voter priorities and political alliances.

According to the New York Times, at the current moment, Republicans have officially picked up one legislative seat to boost their minority from currently 25 seats in the New Mexico House of Representatives to 26 seats, with some races too close to call at the moment.

Republican Kim Skaggs narrowly trails incumbent state Rep. Nathan Small (D-Las Cruces), who is the chairman of the powerful New Mexico House Appropriations and Finance Committee. Small currently has 51% to Skaggs’ 49% with 95 percent of the vote in. Democrat State Rep. Kathleen Cates in the metro area narrowly leads challenger Ali Ennenga 52% to 48%, Democrat Sarah Silva narrowly leads Republican Elizabeth Winterrowd in a Las Cruces-area House seat by a margin of 50.2% to 49.8%, and incumbent Democrat State Rep. Charlotte Little leads Republican Nathan Brooks 52% to 48% in the Albuquerque-area district.

Republicans, however, successfully flipped the 28th House District, which was picked up by former State Rep. Rebecca Dow against Democrat Rep. Tara Jaramillo.

In the state Senate, Republicans had similar growth, picking up one seat as of this morning, per the New York Times, to boost their 15-seat minority to 16 seats. Republican Sandoval County Commissioner Jay Block flipped a Democrat seat 53% to 47% in the Rio Rancho area, and former state Sen. Gabe Ramos flipped an open Democrat seat in Silver City, while Republicans held onto open seats currently filled by GOP members. 

The constitutional amendments on the ballot increasing veteran property tax exemptions passed by wide margins, while a change to the New Mexico Constitution removing the UNM Law School dean from the Judicial Nominating Commission only barely passed with a 51% to 49% margin. 

Trump’s narrow loss in New Mexico and the GOP’s legislative gains indicate that the state may be closer to becoming a battleground than ever before. For New Mexico Republicans, this year’s election represents the most hopeful political moment in decades, suggesting that future races could bring even more change and opportunities to flip the state red.

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Who’s really behind NM’s 2024 candidates? Documentary sounds alarm

6 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

With the November election approaching, Will For Prosperity Ministries, a prominent advocacy organization, has appealed to New Mexico voters to critically assess candidates endorsed by Emerge New Mexico, a far-left group known for supporting progressive female candidates in the state. 

In a press release, the organization called for awareness about the policies championed by these candidates, which they claim could undermine parental rights and reshape the values of New Mexico communities. There are currently 21 candidates with Emerge alumni opposition, and the group already almost has more numbers than the minority party legislators, according to the group.

“The decisions we make in November will reverberate through our families, impact our children’s education, and shape the very foundation of our society,” said a representative from Will For Prosperity Ministries. “The Emerge candidates are pushing for policies that will dramatically alter how our children are educated, the values they learn, and the degree of influence parents have in this critical process.”

The group’s statement urged residents to visit saveourchildrendocumentary.com to get a deeper understanding of these policies and their potential impacts. The website features a trailer titled “Save Our Children from Emerge,” highlighting concerns about the organization’s influence.

A primary goal of the group’s #SaveOurChildren initiative is to provide parents and voters with insights into the Emerge platform, which they say aligns with a “radical Marxist ideology.” 

Launched on September 7, 2024, this initiative has since united residents from diverse backgrounds who feel strongly about protecting children from what they call “progressive overreach.” The campaign has sparked discussions across various social media platforms, including a video posted on Rumble by the group’s spokesperson outlining their concerns.

“As a parent, a voter, and a proud New Mexican, we call upon you to join us in forging a future for our children that reflects our values—not the political agendas of foreign governments,” added a spokesperson. “It’s crucial for all New Mexicans to understand the implications of their vote and make informed decisions in this pivotal election.”

Supporters of the #SaveOurChildren movement have expressed worry about the progressive changes they say could be introduced into local education systems and communities should the Emerge-backed candidates win. “Our movement is gaining momentum, and we are steadfast in our commitment to empower parents with the knowledge they need to defend their families,” the statement continued.

In its closing, Will For Prosperity Ministries emphasized the importance of New Mexicans staying engaged and informed. Those interested in learning more or scheduling an interview can contact the organization directly through their website, www.willforprosperity.com. Additional resources and insights are available upon request for those seeking a deeper look into Emerge New Mexico’s role and influence.For further details, watch the full trailer on Rumble here.

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NM poll: Trump gains ground on Harris just days before election

11 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

With less than a week until Election Day, 45th President Donald Trump is within striking distance of Kamala Harris in New Mexico, according to a new survey by Rasmussen Reports and American Thinker.

While Harris maintains a meager five-point lead in New Mexico with 49% of likely voters compared to Trump’s 44%, the gap is significantly smaller than her predecessor Joe Biden’s double-digit margin in 2020. Trump’s recent visit to New Mexico has reinvigorated his supporters, with many believing he could flip the state for the first time in 20 years.

During Trump’s Albuquerque rally, he addressed key issues resonating with New Mexico voters, including the economy and border security, both of which remain top priorities for New Mexicans. According to the survey, 27% of New Mexico voters identified the economy as their most pressing concern, followed by 18% who cited border security. These issues, where Trump has historically polled strongly, may help him make further inroads in the state.

The Rasmussen survey also highlighted significant demographic trends in New Mexico. Trump holds a 10-point lead among male voters in the state, with 51% backing Trump compared to 41% for Harris. 

New Mexico is just one of several states where the Rasmussen poll indicates a close race. Trump leads by two points in Arizona and five points in Georgia, showing strong support in critical battleground states. 

Although New Mexico is not traditionally viewed as a key swing state in recent history, Trump’s recent campaign efforts suggest he aims to rally support in less conventional territories to expand his appeal beyond his base.

Andrea Widburg, managing editor at American Thinker, commented on the poll’s findings, particularly around border security. “A majority of New Mexicans, about 52%, agree that the situation at the border could be described as an ‘invasion,’” Widburg said. The sentiment echoes Trump’s own campaign messages, underscoring his commitment to strengthening border enforcement.

Energized by his Albuquerque rally, Trump’s campaign hopes this late surge in support can turn what once seemed like a secure lead for Harris into a competitive contest.

The Rasmussen poll margin of sampling error is +/- 3 percentage points with a 95% level of confidence. 

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Trump fires up massive crowd at ABQ rally as NM on the cusp of flipping

22 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

As the 2024 presidential election enters its final days, 45th President Donald Trump made a powerful campaign stop in Albuquerque, New Mexico, rallying almost 10,000 supporters with a message of economic resurgence, energy independence, and a new vision for American prosperity. According to reports, rallygoers began arriving as early as 3:00 in the morning.

With only days remaining until Election Day, Trump was joined by local Republican leaders, including U.S. Senate candidate Nella Domenici and U.S. House candidate Yvette Herrell, who echoed his call for a political transformation in New Mexico.

Attendees included former Gov. Susana Martinez, a once-vocal critic of Trump, many state representatives and senators, former Acting Director of National Intelligence, and Ambassador to Germany Richard Grenell, among others. 

In a historically blue-leaning state, Trump’s decision to visit Albuquerque highlights his campaign’s belief that New Mexico is ripe for a political shift. Trump’s rally drew an enthusiastic crowd, many of whom cheered as he pledged to “end the inflation nightmare” and “unleash American energy.” Trump energized the crowd by promising, “We’re going to drill, baby, drill,” drawing applause from attendees concerned about New Mexico’s economy and its reliance on the oil and gas industry. As the nation’s second-largest oil producer, New Mexico could face economic consequences under policies that limit fossil fuel production, and Trump assured voters he would protect their jobs while Kamala Harris vows to destroy fracking.

Throughout his speech, Trump emphasized his rising support among Hispanic voters, a demographic he referred to as “entrepreneurial as hell” and “hardworking,” adding that his campaign would set records with Hispanic support in the state. “Hispanics love Trump, and I love them,” he proclaimed, underscoring his goal to make inroads with a voter base traditionally loyal to the Democrat Party.

Democrat New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and other Democrats responded critically, with the governor dismissing Trump’s speech as “rambling and incoherent.” However, it is unlikely the far-left Democrat even watched the very well-dictated speech. 

She accused him of attempting to divide the community, pointing to his stance on cracking down on illegal immigration and his criticisms of abortion up-to-birth, as both Lujan Grisham and Harris support. 

Trump, however, turned these criticisms around, calling for stronger border security to protect communities from crime, particularly crimes associated with illegal immigration. “One of the biggest reasons we will win this state is because of the border,” he said, vowing to address the concerns of New Mexico residents who have seen the effects of immigration firsthand.

Nella Domenici, daughter of the late former U.S. Sen. Pete Domenici, used the rally to connect Trump’s vision to New Mexico’s challenges. “It’s time to bring back Donald Trump and bring back a Domenici,” she said, calling for a return to conservative values that prioritize border security, economic growth, and traditional energy production. Domenici urged supporters to keep pushing until the final votes are cast, as she believes the state is “on the cusp” of flipping red.

Former Congresswoman Yvette Herrell, a Republican candidate for New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District, focused on the importance of national security, pledging that Republicans would “close the southern border once and for all.” Like Trump, Herrell emphasized energy independence and economic stability, topics she believes are at the forefront of New Mexico voters’ concerns.

Trump’s Albuquerque rally was a high-energy affair meant to boost Republican enthusiasm in the state as polls show the state’s performance neck-and-neck between Harris and Trump. According to a campaign insider who spoke to Politico, Trump’s strategy is to “create an adrenaline blast” in states like New Mexico and Virginia, places not typically considered battlegrounds but where Trump’s message might sway undecided voters or Democrats frustrated with the current administration’s policies.

As Election Day nears, Trump and his allies are determined to show that Democrat policies have underserved New Mexico, a state they argue could be ready for a red wave. Trump’s visit wasn’t just about rallying supporters; it was a bold statement that his America First message has struck a chord even in traditionally blue-leaning states.

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