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New Mexico is the problem — and Texas amps up the pressure

12 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Texas Governor Greg Abbott continues to voice concerns about the estimated 58,000 illegal aliens crossing the Rio Grande or bypassing the border wall each month. 

Abbott expressed his frustrations on Twitter, stating, “Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have allowed more illegal immigrants to cross our southern border than ever before.” 

He added that Texas is intensifying its efforts by “tripling our razor wire border barriers” to prevent further illegal entries into the state.

In line with Abbott’s declarations, Texas Army National Guard troops were observed reinforcing border defenses along the Rio Grande in the El Paso region. 

On September 17, 2024, additional rows of concertina wire and fencing were installed, not along the U.S.-Mexico border directly, but rather on the riverbank facing New Mexico, highlighting Texas’ concern about the possibility of illegal smuggling operations in New Mexico spilling into its borders.

Earlier this year, Texas extended its barriers at a point where the Rio Grande shifts direction into New Mexico, reacting to fears that criminal activities in the neighboring state could affect Texas. 

This follows incidents over the summer when migrants, caught in the river’s dangerous currents, were rescued by U.S. Border Patrol and local emergency responders from both Texas and New Mexico.

The Border Patrol’s Santa Teresa station in New Mexico remains a hotspot for smuggling activities. Many of the tragic encounters with deceased migrants—171 this fiscal year—occurred in the desert region near Sunland Park, further emphasizing the challenges faced by border authorities. 

Democrat New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has refused to send funding or resources to the border to help alleviate the crisis, unlike all other border-state governors, including Democrat Govs. Gavin Newsom of California and Katie Hobbs of Arizona.

Texas’ newly fortified barrier stretches from West Paisano Drive to the Texas side of the Anapra Bridge, which connects El Paso to Sunland Park, New Mexico.

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Poll that sampled only 532 people says Trump down by 10 points in NM

20 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

A recent poll in New Mexico suggests that Kamala Harris holds a notable lead over 45th President Donald Donald Trump. The vice president polled 49% compared to Trump’s 39%. 

However, it’s important to note that this data is drawn from a relatively small sample size of just 532 likely voters, which is a fraction of the state’s overall electorate. 

While this small group may reflect some current voter sentiments, it’s crucial to acknowledge that such a limited sample may not capture the full diversity of opinions in New Mexico.

The poll also revealed some key demographic splits: male voters were almost evenly divided between Harris and Trump, while women leaned more heavily toward Harris. 

Additionally, education level played a significant role, with college-educated voters favoring Harris by a 2-to-1 margin, while those without a degree were more inclined to support Trump.

Hispanic voters tended to favor Harris, but Trump’s support among this group was stronger than in previous elections, with 36% backing the 45th president. 

The poll highlights a trend of Democrat dominance in more urban and northern areas, while Trump retains strong support in the more conservative eastern parts of the state.

This Albuquerque Journal poll, conducted by Research & Polling Inc., carries a margin of error of ±4.2%, meaning shifts in public opinion could occur as early voting and Election Day approaches.

Given the relatively small sample size, the results should be interpreted cautiously and may not fully represent the broader electorate.

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Tito Jackson of the Jackson 5 passes away traveling from NM

Leave a Comment / New Mexico, News / By

Tito Jackson, one of the iconic members of the legendary Jackson 5, has passed away at the age of 70.

As the third of nine Jackson siblings, Tito was part of a music dynasty that produced global sensations like Michael and Janet Jackson. Their contributions to music continue to resonate with fans across generations.

A photo from July 24, 2019, shows Tito Jackson promoting his solo work in Los Angeles, showcasing a new version of his 2017 track “One Way Street.” His musical legacy extended beyond his time with the Jackson 5, as he ventured into solo projects in his later years.

In a heartfelt statement shared on Instagram, Tito’s sons TJ, Taj, and Taryll expressed their grief: “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us. We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.”

According to longtime family friend and manager Steve Manning, Tito passed away while traveling from New Mexico to Oklahoma. Although an official cause of death has not been confirmed, it is believed he suffered a heart attack.

Born on October 15, 1953, as Toriano Adaryll “Tito” Jackson, he was known for his role as the Jackson 5’s background singer and guitarist. Though his brothers pursued solo careers, with Michael becoming the renowned King of Pop, Tito largely remained in the background of the group’s musical ventures.

Reflecting on Michael’s tragic death in 2009, Tito shared with The Associated Press how it deeply affected the family. “I would say definitely it brought us a step closer to each other. To recognize that the love we have for each other when one of us is not here, what a great loss,” he said, acknowledging that he would never fully find peace with it. “There’s still moments when I just can’t believe it. So I think that’s never going to go away,” he added.

In 2014, Tito admitted that performing without Michael was difficult for the remaining brothers. “I don’t think we will ever get used to performing without him. He’s dearly missed,” he said. He noted, however, that Michael’s presence remained with them during their performances, providing them with positive energy.

Just days before his death, Tito posted a message on Facebook from Germany, where he and his brothers visited a memorial dedicated to Michael. “We’re deeply grateful for this special place that honors not only his memory but also our shared legacy,” he wrote.

Tito Jackson was the last of his siblings to release a solo album, debuting “Tito Time” in 2016. His single “Get It Baby” featuring Big Daddy Kane became a commercial success. Despite his solo work, he prioritized raising his three sons—TJ, Taj, and Taryll—who later formed the group 3T. He also collaborated with them on a track featuring Stevie Wonder titled “Love One Another.”

Tito is survived by his brothers Jermaine, Randy, Marlon, and Jackie, his sisters Janet, Rebbie, and La Toya, and their mother, Katherine Jackson. Their father, Joe Jackson, passed away in 2018.

Tito Jackson leaves behind a lasting musical legacy, his sons, and nine grandchildren. His passing was first reported by Entertainment Tonight.

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Another MLG Cabinet official quits administration

3 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

The Lujan Grisham administration has faced the resignation of another high-profile cabinet member, as Jen Paul Schroer stepped down from her role as secretary of the Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD). 

Schroer, who had been a key figure in Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s administration since 2019, previously served as secretary of the Tourism Department before transitioning to ALTSD. 

In reflecting on her tenure, Governor Lujan Grisham praised Schroer, saying, “Jen has been a strong, dedicated leader, stepping up for New Mexicans from her time at the Tourism Department through her work at ALTSD. Her leadership was crucial during the COVID-19 crisis, and I deeply appreciate her service.” 

For her part, Schroer said, “I am grateful to Gov. Lujan Grisham for the opportunity to serve and to work alongside dedicated professionals improving the lives of New Mexicans.” She also acknowledged the support of Deputy Secretary Antoinette Vigil and the broader ALTSD team, expressing confidence in the department’s continued success.

This development follows the departure of Arsenio Romero, the New Mexico Department of Education (PED) secretary, who recently stepped down amid speculation that he was eyeing a leadership position at New Mexico State University. She was his fourth Cabinet secretary for PED.

Romero’s exit was prompted by political pressure from the governor. Romero’s forced departure highlights a pattern of turnover within the governor’s cabinet, with several key figures exiting in recent years.

These transitions come at a time when the Lujan Grisham administration is under scrutiny for its mismanagement of key departments and agencies, such as the Children, Youth, and Families Department, which has continued to be in a cycle of perpetual failure and decline. 

The frequent cabinet changes raise questions about the stability of the administration’s leadership team, particularly as New Mexico continues to navigate significant challenges in education, health care, and economic recovery.

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Antifa, socialists flip out, form tiny protest to Santa Fe detransitioners panel

30 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Tensions flared Thursday night outside La Fonda on the Plaza in Santa Fe as a detransitioners panel sparked small protests from local fringe groups, including Antifa and the Democratic Socialists of America. Partners for Ethical Care organized the event, which featured six individuals who halted or reversed their gender transition. 

It drew a group of counterprotesters, including members of “Rainbow Liberation ABQ” and the Santa Fe Democratic Socialists of America, who marched with pride flags and chanted slogans like “Trans rights are human rights” and “Boycott La Fonda.”

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and City Councilor Alma Castro voiced concerns about the event, with Castro stating, “Santa Fe is an inclusive, beautiful city where people should feel safe and welcomed, and misinformation is not something that is good for our community.”

It is unclear what Lujan Grisham is claiming is “misinformation,” as the speakers merely chose not to continue the surgeries and treatments to artificially alter their femininity or masculinity. The governor recently signed a bill to put tampons in public school boys’ bathrooms. 

Sarah Smith, co-leader of the New Mexico Freedoms Alliance, defended the panel, saying it aimed to raise awareness about the regret some individuals experience after transitioning. “I’m hoping that more people will be able to then think a little bit more carefully about this issue because the risks of this type of health care are really being downplayed,” she said.

“Apparently LGBT voices only matter when they parrot the accepted dogma. Those who were irreparably harmed and maimed by the gender cult are expected to shut up and take it,” she wrote. Here’s how antifa operates: they come up and get right in your face, standing as close as physically possible to you while insulting you. These cowards won’t even show their faces.” 

“They tried to intimidate me by repeatedly calling me by name, talking about my family, and making veiled threats towards me and my children. When that didn’t work, they started the wild accusations about ped*philia and collusion with Russians…. Wow, these people are unhinged.  All while hiding behind their masks.”

“LGBTQ+” advocates, including Michael Trimm from the Transgender Resource Center of New Mexico, criticized the event as a tactic to spread fear and misinformation. Trimm emphasized that the vast majority of transgender individuals do not regret transitioning, citing a 2021 study that found only 1% of individuals who transition experience regret.

However, according to the UCLA School of Law’s Williams Institute, “A new study from the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law finds that 81% of transgender adults in the U.S. have thought about suicide, 42% of transgender adults have attempted it, and 56% have engaged in non-suicidal self-injury over their lifetimes.”

The radicalized protesters also caused some disruption at La Fonda, with Señor Murphy Candymaker closing early due to safety concerns. The hotel allowed the event to proceed despite pushback, with Rik Blyth, president of La Fonda Hospitality Group, noting the decision was made following legal advice.

Reflecting on the controversy, Jennifer Kimball, chairman emerita of the hotel’s board, said, “This is an anathema to me… but as an owner of La Fonda, I am neutral.”

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MLG compares getting abortions to slavery-era practice in Virginia speech

22 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

While campaigning for the Harris-Walz ticket in Virginia, far-left New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham drew attention to her state’s unique role in providing abortion services since the overturning of Roe v. Wade. 

During her speech at the Northern Virginia Democratic headquarters, Lujan Grisham emphasized how New Mexico has effectively become a “de facto Underground Railroad” for women seeking abortions, with 75% of these procedures being performed on out-of-state patients.

“We literally now have an underground operation, not unlike something we’re all familiar with, the Underground Railroad, to try to make sure that we get to women and their families early,” Lujan Grisham stated, highlighting the growing demand for abortion services from neighboring states, especially Texas. She described the difficult situations many women face, adding, “Sometimes if we save their lives, we’ve also ruined any opportunity for them to have a child of their own when they’re ready.”

New Mexico has become a tourist destination for women seeking abortions. Lujan Grisham’s remarks underscored how her state has positioned itself as a “bastion for safe, fair reproductive access around the country,” or as many would call it, a back alley abortion facility for other states.

Lujan Grisham’s efforts to bolster the state’s capacity to serve out-of-state patients include placing billboards in Texas encouraging pro-abortion healthcare providers from the state to consider practicing in New Mexico. 

“If you’re a healthcare practitioner, why would you practice here if you’re sworn to protect the lives of your patients? If you want no interference, come to New Mexico,” Lujan Grisham said, referring to the growing restrictions on abortion in Texas, where 71% of New Mexico’s out-of-state patients come from, per the New York Post. 

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GOP blasts Vasquez in hard-hitting defund police ad

6 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) has launched a new TV ad targeting far-left Democrat Rep. Gabe Vasquez in the New Mexico 2nd Congressional District (NM-02) race. 

The ad focuses on Vasquez’s past comments regarding defunding the police, a controversial issue that has been central to political debates across the country.

Titled “In His Own Words,” the ad highlights Vasquez’s previous statements advocating for reducing or reimagining police funding. Clips used in the ad emphasize Vasquez’s belief in reallocating police resources, stating, “The police department… if we don’t need those positions anymore, then we need to get rid of them.” 

The ad portrays these comments as evidence that Vasquez wants to “get rid of the police” and replace them with other services, such as psychologists responding to certain incidents. The ad closes with the message, “Yes, Gabe Vasquez wants to defund the police.”

The NRCC’s ad campaign represents a substantial financial investment in the NM-02 race, a district that has seen fierce competition in recent elections. 

The district, previously held by Republican Yvette Herrell, flipped to the Democrats when Vasquez narrowly won the seat in 2022. As the race heats up, Republicans are looking to regain control of the district, framing Vasquez as aligned with the more progressive wing of the Democrat Party, particularly on issues like law enforcement.

This line of attack has been a recurring theme in competitive districts nationwide, as Republicans aim to paint their Democratic opponents as extreme on crime-related issues. Public safety is a top concern for many voters, so this ad seeks to sway undecided voters by highlighting Vasquez’s past statements, which are extreme and supportive of defunding police.

The outcome of the NM-02 race could be pivotal for both parties, as Republicans seek to regain a foothold in New Mexico and strengthen their position in the House, with only a slim majority. 

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New report shows NM’s bleak divorce, happiness rankings

5 Comments / New Mexico, News / By

New Mexico has been ranked 46th in WalletHub’s 2024 Happiest States in America report, indicating significant challenges in emotional, physical, and social well-being. 

One of the most concerning statistics is that the state has the highest rate of divorce in the nation, with a separation and divorce rate 1.7 times higher than Utah, which ranks the lowest. This underscores many residents’ difficulties in maintaining personal relationships, contributing to the state’s overall happiness struggles.

WalletHub’s analysis ranked states across 30 metrics, including depression rates, mental health, and community engagement. 

While Hawaii was ranked the happiest, with the lowest share of adult depression, and New Jersey had the fewest suicides per 100,000 residents, New Mexico continues to face challenges, including high divorce rates, elevated rates of mental health issues, and community isolation.

Experts argue that addressing these underlying issues—particularly focusing on mental health support and improving family structures—could significantly boost New Mexico’s happiness ranking. 

As the state grapples with economic instability and community well-being, it’s clear that more work is needed to address the factors contributing to its low position in the happiness index.

WalletHub’s report also points to Utah’s high volunteer rate, which is 2.6 times higher than Florida’s, showing the importance of community involvement in boosting happiness. 

Conversely, New Mexico’s ranking highlights the need for greater attention to improving both emotional and physical well-being across its communities.

For more details on New Mexico’s ranking and the full report, visit WalletHub’s analysis here: WalletHub’s Happiest States.

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Multi-million dollar NM ad buys blister Heinrich, ‘woke’ Harris over failures

14 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

New multi-million-dollar ad buys from the group Election Freedom, Inc. blister New Mexico Sen. Martin Heinrich and Kamala Harris, the Democrats’ nominee for president, over their actions that increased inflation for everyday New Mexicans and created a crisis at the southern border.

The two ads ad, featuring both of the far-left politicians, don’t pull any punches with the Democrats’ attack on the working New Mexican.

The first ad declares, “Vice President Kamala Harris and Senator Martin Heinrich made inflation worse.”

“Harris and Heinrich voted for the reckless spending that drove up prices. They spent more. Now, we’re paying more. Thanks to Harris and Heinrich, housing prices and mortgage rates are soaring. Energy and gas prices have jumped, and grocery prices continue to rise.” 

The other ad primarily digs into Kamala Harris, who declared that the wide-open border that covers at least 50.3 miles in New Mexico is “secure” despite the largest flow of illegal immigration in the nation’s history under the Biden-Harris administration.

The ad also hits Harris on her work to defund the police, asking New Mexicans to call her office and tell her that “woke doesn’t work for New Mexico. We need more police and lower prices.”

The ads are to air at saturation level in the New Mexico market, along with a digital spot to educate New Mexicans on the failed policies of the two Democrats’ reckless policies that have resulted in residents feeling unsafe and poorer under their watch. 

According to a senior advisor for the organization, the group’s total investment in the state is well over seven figures, demonstrating that New Mexico is beginning to receive target treatment.

Emily Moreno Miller of the Trump 2020 Victory political team said regarding the ad placement, “This is the largest investment in New Mexico that we’ve seen in recent years. The resources being pumped into the state right now will put it on the map and grant this state national attention, something the left cannot ignore. This will move the needle in New Mexico, and expand the map in 2024. A message to the liberal media – do not ignore New Mexico.”

Recent polls have shown 45th President Donald Trump and U.S. Senate challenger Nella Domenici within single digits of their opponents in the Land of Enchantment.

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Maxeon Solar’s collapse threatens Lujan Grisham’s solar energy dream

26 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s expensive $600 million taxpayer-backed solar project continues to face growing concerns as Maxeon Solar, the company behind the initiative, announced disappointing financial projections for the third quarter of 2024. 

Maxeon, which was chosen to build a new solar manufacturing facility in Albuquerque, revealed it expects a “significant decline” in sales, and its stock has plummeted to just 9 cents per share. This development comes more than a year after Governor Lujan Grisham proudly touted Maxeon’s investment as a major win for New Mexico’s renewable energy sector.

In August 2023, the Governor celebrated Maxeon’s plans to establish a manufacturing hub, promising that the project would break ground by the first quarter of 2024. 

However, more than halfway through the year, construction on the facility has yet to begin, casting doubt on the viability of the project and the prudence of the state’s substantial financial backing of the initiative.

Critics argue that the Governor’s administration rushed through the approval process without adequately vetting the financial stability of Maxeon Solar. 

Larry Behrens, Communications Director for the pro-energy group Power The Future, expressed frustration at the lack of oversight. “New Mexico’s taxpayers should not be spending a single penny, which is about all Maxeon is worth these days, on this boondoggle,” Behrens stated. 

“It’s now even more clear that the Governor and her cronies who rushed this project through the approval process were so blinded by their agenda that they applied zero scrutiny. New Mexicans deserve better leaders than those who make bad deals and offer false promises.”

Power The Future, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting American energy workers, has been a vocal critic of the Governor’s renewable energy policies, arguing that they prioritize political optics over sound economic judgment. In addition to Governor Lujan Grisham, the project was initially celebrated by prominent New Mexico politicians including Senator Martin Heinrich, Congressman Gabe Vasquez, and Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury.

As Maxeon Solar struggles to meet its targets and deliver on its promises, New Mexico taxpayers are left questioning whether their investment in this project will yield any of the economic or environmental benefits that were originally promised.

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