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U.S. House GOP moves to condemn gun-grabbing Gov. MLG over illegal order

8 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

A substantial coalition of House Republicans, spearheaded by Representative Dan Newhouse of Washington, has introduced a resolution on Thursday aimed at condemning the actions of Democratic Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico regarding her recently blocked ban on carrying firearms.

The GOP resolution is a response to Governor Grisham’s emergency order, which suspended both concealed and open carry of firearms in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Bernalillo County for a minimum of 30 days. This move has drawn criticism from Republicans, some Democrats, and Second Amendment advocates, who argue that it infringes upon the constitutional rights of Americans.

Rep. Newhouse expressed his concerns, stating, “The shocking move from Governor Grisham is a blatant subversion of the U.S. Constitution and a violation of her oath of office while she deprives the citizens of New Mexico of their right to bear arms. The Governor’s action should send a chill up every American’s spine as it strips away the protection of individual rights and freedom, which sets a dangerous precedent for the rights of Central Washingtonians and Americans across our nation. I’m proud to lead this resolution to condemn the Governor’s actions and I call on her to rescind her order immediately.”

Over 50 Republicans have joined Rep. Newhouse in introducing this resolution, including prominent figures like GOP Majority Leader Steve Scalise, GOP Whip Tom Emmer, GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik, and GOP Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler, among others.

The National Rifle Association (NRA) and the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) have also endorsed the resolution, with NSSF senior vice president Lawrence Keane remarking, “The order is Constitutionally baseless, and there are no laws or regulations giving the state’s Regulation and Licensing Department authority to inspect federally licensed firearm retailers. By falsely declaring a rise in crime as a public health emergency and suspending the rights of the law-abiding people of New Mexico, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham is proving her contempt for the U.S. Bill of Rights, New Mexico’s Constitution, her oath of office and the voters of New Mexico. NSSF appreciates Congressman Newhouse’s leadership in pushing back against this blatant and unconstitutional power grab and joins him in this fight.”

Governor Grisham’s emergency order was issued in response to recent gun-related deaths in New Mexico, including the tragic killing of an 11-year-old boy outside a minor league baseball stadium. However, the order has faced substantial opposition since its issuance.

Rep. Newhouse’s resolution condemns Governor Grisham for “subverting the Second Amendment of the Constitution and depriving the citizens of New Mexico of their right to bear arms.” It also highlights that the order imposes fines and civil penalties on New Mexico citizens who exercise their Second Amendment rights, while directing local law enforcement to apprehend violators.

The resolution emphasizes the absolute nature of rights secured by the Constitution and argues that any attempt by a Governor to strip citizens of their rights deserves condemnation from Congress.

Furthermore, the resolution quotes several Supreme Court cases affirming the Second Amendment and references Governor Grisham’s statement that no constitutional right, in her view, “is intended to be absolute.”

This resolution comes after a federal judge in Albuquerque issued a temporary restraining order blocking key elements of Governor Grisham’s executive order. U.S. District Court Judge David Urias issued the order, which prohibits the enforcement of the portion of the order that restricts lawful gun owners from carrying their firearms in public for 30 days.

Judge Urias, during the court hearing, emphasized that the violation of a constitutional right, even for brief periods, constitutes irreparable harm. The temporary restraining order will remain in effect until at least October 3, the date of the next hearing.

U.S. House GOP moves to condemn gun-grabbing Gov. MLG over illegal order Read More »

Leftist NM columnist desperately tries to shield Lujan Grisham from impeachment

43 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

The Santa Fe New Mexican’s Milan Simonich tried to shield far-left anti-gun Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham from calls for her impeachment.

Impeachment calls came from Reps. Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) and John Block (R-Alamogordo), who are currently working on articles of impeachment against the governor following her order “suspending” law-abiding Bernalillo County citizens’ rights to keep and bear arms for 30 days. The governor claimed all rights; even her oath is not “absolute.”

Bipartisan fury has come out against her edict, especially from members of her own party, including at least seven legislative members so far, including state Sen. Joseph Cervantes (D-Las Cruces), who chairs the powerful Senate Judiciary Committee and the interim Legislative Courts, Corrections, and Justice Committee.

Other leftists jumping ship from Lujan Grisham on this include U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, U.S. Rep. Ted Lieu of California, rabid anti-gun activist David Hogg, the American Civil Liberties Union, and entrepreneur Elon Musk, among others. 

Democrat Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen is refusing to enforce her order, along with Albuquerque Police, under the direction of Democrat Mayor Tim Keller.

State Attorney General Raúl Torrezl issued a letter to Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham Tuesday, telling her he refuses to represent her in court cases regarding her unconstitutional order.

Impeachment a “waste of time,” claimed the leftist New Mexican columnist, calling holding the governor accountable for infringing upon New Mexicans’ rights “political theater.”

“Talk of overturning the result of a statewide election that occurred only 10 months ago is going nowhere. Lord and Block advocate a hanging offense for a governor who made a poor decision,” Simonich added. 

What the governor did — to suspend state and federal constitutional rights — was arguably more than just a “poor decision.” 

“The Republicans’ punitive approach is unreasonable. Even if it were sensible, Lujan Grisham would be safe,” he claims, completely ignoring all the legislators from both sides of the aisle blasting the governor and her unconstitutional edict.

As proof of the supposed unreasonableness of impeaching a governor who broke her oath, he quoted state Rep. Jim Townsend (R-Artesia), who told him, “It is mathematically and politically impossible.”

Six Democrats have already opposed the governor’s mandate in the House. If all of those in opposition and just six more join to impeach the governor, which is entirely possible given the politically cancerous executive order, the governor will be impeached. These more moderate Democrats are the reason most of the extreme anti-gun laws haven’t been enacted in the state due to the lack of support from a majority of members. 

Impeachment remains a very real option to hold the governor accountable, and each day, more people support the idea in the Land of Enchantment.

Leftist NM columnist desperately tries to shield Lujan Grisham from impeachment Read More »

AG Torrez delivers devastating blow to anti-gun Gov. Lujan Grisham

36 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Left-wing Democrat Attorney General Raúl Torrez issued a letter to Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham Tuesday, telling her that he is refusing to represent her in court cases regarding her unconstitutional order to unilaterally ban gun possession in Bernalillo County for thirty days.

Torrez wrote in a letter, “I do not believe that the Emergency Order will have any meaningful impact on public safety…I do not believe it passes constitutional muster.”

“I believe it is unwise to stretch the definition of a ‘public health emergency’ to encompass something that is fundamentally a public safety issue,” Torrez concluded.

The devastating news for Lujan Grisham comes after six Democrats in the state legislature signed a letter telling the governor to rescind her unconstitutional edict, while state Sen. Joseph Cervantes did as well on his X account.

Other leftists jumping ship from Lujan Grisham on this include U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, U.S. Rep. Ted Lieu of California, rabid anti-gun activist David Hogg, the American Civil Liberties Union, and entrepreneur Elon Musk, among others. 

Democrat Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen is refusing to enforce her order, along with Albuquerque Police, under the direction of Democrat Mayor Tim Keller.

State Reps. Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) and John Block (R-Alamogordo) are currently working on impeachment articles against the governor, who called constitutional rights and her oath of office not “absolute.”

AG Torrez delivers devastating blow to anti-gun Gov. Lujan Grisham Read More »

First Dem legislator breaks silence on MLG’s anti-gun order

23 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

On Monday, Bernalillo Sheriff John Allen blasted Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s unconstitutional order to disarm all law-abiding citizens in Bernalillo County from having either concealed or open firearms.

He said, “I’m not going to enforce it.” 

“The governor made it clear in her press conference,” he said, adding, “She knew we as law enforcement did not agree with the order, and as a result this was solely her decision.”

“We don’t agree with this at all. This is unconstitutional and like I said, I uphold my oath seriously,” Allen said.

The first Democrat legislator finally broke their silence, with state Sen. Joseph Cervantes (D-Doña Ana County) writing on Twitter, “Having passed key gun safety laws working with her administration, I call on the Governor to rescind her order outlawing arms.”

He further wrote, “An unconstitutional approach undermines the important collaboration gun issues deserve, and the important role of a Governor to lead genuine reforms.”

There has not been a single Democrat legislator publicly coming out in support of the governor’s unconstitutional order as of publication.

First Dem legislator breaks silence on MLG’s anti-gun order Read More »

Vasquez, Dems silent on MLG’s gun ban as defensive gov attacks leftist critics

30 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

As the U.S. Constitution comes under attack in his district by anti-gun Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, far-left U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez, who is extremely vulnerable in 2024, refused to stand up for constitutional rights by condemning the governor’s attacks.

On Friday, New Mexico Governor Lujan Grisham issued an emergency order suspending the right to carry firearms in public across Albuquerque and all of Bernalillo County county for at least 30 days. She also erroneously claimed she had the power to do it by executive order, claiming citizens’ rights are not “absolute.”

While other Democrats like far-left U.S. Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA) and anti-gun activist David Hogg publicly condemned Governor Grisham for suspending the U.S. Constitution, Vasquez and all New Mexico congressional representatives are silent. Not a single Democrat state representative or senator has come out in support of the governor’s unconstitutional order.

Lujan Grisham even went on the defense on X, formerly Twitter, to attack Lieu for his stance against her gun grab. 

“Hey Ted, conceal and open carry are state laws that I have jurisdiction over. If you’re really interested in helping curb gun violence, I’d welcome you to join our next police academy class,” the governor wrote to her former colleague in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Vasquez and other Democrats’ silence on Governor Grisham’s decision is deafening, with the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) saying it is again “showing that Vasquez is willing to align himself with the extreme edges on his party.”

The NRCC’s spokeswoman, Delanie Bomar, said in a statement, “Since coming to D.C. Gabe Vasquez has aligned himself with the extreme Left on a number of issues, the latest of which is this gun ban.”

She added, “Vasquez cannot ignore a violation of the Constitution and expect New Mexicans to accept his silence.”

New Mexico has made international news for the unconstitutional gun grab, with news outlets in Europe, Asia, and other continents picking up the story of the power grab.

Elon Musk agrees Lujan Grisham should be ‘removed from office’

Vasquez, Dems silent on MLG’s gun ban as defensive gov attacks leftist critics Read More »

Elon Musk agrees Lujan Grisham should be ‘removed from office’

54 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Following Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s controversial press conference where she announced the suspension of Bernalillo County residents’ rights to open or concealed-carry firearms, the responses on social media, particularly X (formerly Twitter), have ignited a massive national conversation. Among those who voiced their concerns was Elon Musk, the renowned entrepreneur behind SpaceX and Tesla.

In response to a video of Governor Lujan Grisham’s announcement, Elon Musk took to X to express his sentiments. He stated, “At [the] risk of stating what should be obvious, deliberately violating the Constitution is next-level illegal,” underscoring his belief in the unconstitutionality of the governor’s actions. 

Musk continued by posing a question that resonated with many, “How soon can this person be removed from office?”

Musk’s comment echoed the concerns of numerous individuals who viewed Governor Lujan Grisham’s order as an infringement on Second Amendment rights, sparking a broader conversation about the legality and constitutionality of such measures.

During her press conference, Governor Lujan Grisham acknowledged that her order might face constitutional challenges. She emphasized that no right is absolute, including her own oath to uphold the Constitution. The move was met with fierce opposition from those who believe it infringes on citizens’ rights.

The controversy surrounding this issue has raised questions about executive authority’s limits and constitutional rights’ protection. While Governor Lujan Grisham asserts that her actions are necessary to address the issue of gun violence, critics argue that suspending residents’ Second Amendment rights goes against the principles of the Constitution.

Elon Musk’s involvement in this debate adds a high-profile voice to the chorus of those who believe that the governor’s actions are unconstitutional. As the founder of multiple influential companies, Musk’s statements carry significant weight in public discourse. His call to remove Governor Lujan Grisham from office underscores the seriousness of the constitutional concerns raised by the order.

It is important to note that this issue has sparked intense debate in New Mexico and across the United States. The balance between public safety and individual rights has long been a contentious topic in the country, and this recent controversy further highlights the deep divisions surrounding the Second Amendment and gun control measures.

As the debate continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how various legal challenges, public opinion, and political actions will shape the outcome of Governor Lujan Grisham’s order and its impact on the rights of Bernalillo County residents. 

State Reps. John Block (R-Alamogordo) and Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) have announced that they are already lining up impeachment articles with legal counsel.

Elon Musk agrees Lujan Grisham should be ‘removed from office’ Read More »

Even Dem BernCo sheriff won’t enforce MLG’s unconstitutional gun order

31 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

On Friday, following a press conference where far-left anti-gun Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham ordered all concealed and open-carried firearms banned in Bernalillo County, Sheriff John Allen distanced himself from the extreme order.

Although he did not go right out and say he would not enforce her order, he wrote in a statement that “as the elected Sheriff, I have reservations regarding this order. While I understand and appreciate the urgency, the temporary ban challenges the foundation of our Constitution, which I swore an oath to uphold.”

He continued, “I am wary of placing my deputies in positions that could lead to civil liability conflicts, as well as the potential risks posed by prohibiting law-abiding citizens from their constitutional right to self-defense.”

“I was elected to represent and safeguard all constituents and to ensure the balance between our rights and public safety is maintained. That means we must critically evaluate any proposed solution to the deeply rooted issue of gun violence, ensuring we both protect our community and uphold the values that define us as a nation.” 

He listed some ways he wanted to address so-called “gun violence,” including enforcing anti-gun laws actually passed by the legislature, such as an extreme Red Flag law. He also said he will continue to find “sustainable solutions” to address the issue. 

At the press conference, Lujan Grisham said no rights are “absolute” and that her oath to the Constitution is not absolute. Allen joined the governor and others at the roundtable press conference held at the Capitol. 

Even Dem BernCo sheriff won’t enforce MLG’s unconstitutional gun order Read More »

Lujan Grisham signs illegal order ‘suspending’ ABQ residents’ gun rights

66 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

On Friday, far-left anti-gun Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham unilaterally — and unconstitutionally — violated New Mexico state laws and the U.S. and state constitutions by ordering all concealed-carrying of firearms be banned in Albuquerque. 

She said, “In this public health order, which is effective today, September 8th, which lasts thirty days, and then like all the other public health orders, we will either amend or renew or adjust depending upon where we are. So, effective immediately, no person other than a law enforcement officer or licensed security officer shall possess a firearm either openly or concealed within cities or counties averaging 1,000 or more violent crimes per  100,000 and  more than 90 firearm-related emergency department visits.”

She noted how the criteria in the order would affect “Albuquerque and Bernalillo Counties” for 30 days.

“We’re suspending open and concealed carry,” she added. 

Lujan Grisham even admitted how illegal the order is, saying, “I am sure before you [the media] write this, there will be a legal challenge, and I can’t tell you that we win it, given all of the different challenges to gun violence laws and restrictions on individual firearm access and control.”

The extremist move violates the New Mexico and federal constitutions, as well as state laws such as the Concealed Handgun Carry Act of 2003. Because the order is illegal and an abomination of the Constitution, it is therefore null and void. 

However, the governor still contends that any right in the Constitution is not “absolute,” saying even her oath to the Constitution is not absolute:

Watch the full press conference below:

Lujan Grisham signs illegal order ‘suspending’ ABQ residents’ gun rights Read More »

Democrat lawmaker takes Gov. Lujan Grisham to court 

4 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

A Democrat representative in New Mexico, State Representative Miguel P. García (D-Albuquerque), has taken legal action against Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham over her veto of significant portions of an omnibus tax bill during the 2023 legislative session. García filed a petition in the New Mexico Supreme Court on September 6, 2023, seeking to declare the governor’s actions unconstitutional. To assist in this legal challenge, García enlisted the support of a lawyer and former New Mexico Senator Jacob Candelaria (I-Albuquerque).

The focus of the legal action is House Bill 547, which García contends is primarily a tax bill, not a bill appropriating money. He argues that Governor Lujan Grisham exceeded her limited line-item veto authority by striking down most of the bill, including provisions related to tax proposals to exempt more Social Security retirement income from State Income Tax.

House Bill 547 was a substantial piece of legislation during the recent legislative session, spanning over 100 pages. It sought to bring about various changes, including adjustments to the state’s income tax brackets, establishing a single corporate income tax rate, and introducing tax credits for a wide range of workers. This bipartisan effort was hailed as one of the most comprehensive tax reforms in recent years.

However, when the bill reached the governor’s desk, Lujan Grisham exercised her veto power to eliminate significant portions, including the proposed changes to the state’s income tax brackets. In her message to the legislature explaining her decision, she expressed concerns about the overall sustainability of the tax package, citing potential impacts on essential services and programs such as education, healthcare, public safety, and infrastructure.

Despite her veto, the governor did acknowledge her support for specific aspects of the bill. She emphasized her approval of portions that provided one-time tax rebates, increased the child income tax credit, enhanced the benefits of the film tax credit, and expanded the health practitioners’ gross receipts tax deduction. According to her statement, these measures aligned with her commitment to supporting working families, the healthcare system, and the state’s economy.

KRQE News 13 reached out to the governor’s office for a response to the legal challenge seeking to overturn the vetoes. In response, Caroline Sweeney, the governor’s press secretary, issued a statement acknowledging the right of New Mexicans to use the judicial system for seeking change and stated that they anticipate the suit will be dismissed after a judge’s review.

The legal dispute centers on interpreting the New Mexico Constitution, which grants the governor the authority to veto entire bills and approve or disapprove parts of any bill appropriating money. The petition argues that this language prevents the governor from vetoing portions of a tax bill like House Bill 547, which does not appropriate money. Candelaria contends that while the bill does mention money, such as tax rebate checks approved by lawmakers, a separate law appropriates those funds.

It remains to be seen when the New Mexico Supreme Court will address this issue, as there is no specific time obligation outlined in the state’s court procedures under Rule Set 12.

Democrat lawmaker takes Gov. Lujan Grisham to court  Read More »

NM responds to ​​Gov. Lujan Grisham declaring a ‘gun violence’ emergency

46 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Far-left Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a “gun violence” “public health emergency” on Thursday, as well as shelling out $750,000 taxpayer dollars on new gun grabs, which she did by the stroke of a pen in an executive order.

The governor used an 11-year-old boy’s tragic murder on the way home from a baseball game as the pretext for her order. 

Here’s how New Mexicans responded to Lujan Grisham’s latest attempt at clinging to more power:

New Mexico House Republican Leader Ryan Lane (R-Aztec) wrote, “It is unfortunate that the Governor has decided to politicize the death of an 11-year-old to push her anti-gun agenda. What’s likewise unfortunate is that with billions in revenue this state has not funded meaningful criminal justice reform including addressing reckless pre-trial release policies and behavioral health rehabilitation. The Democrat’s policies have created and exacerbated the crime crisis that is literally killing New Mexicans daily. It is unacceptable that it has taken this long to notice the number of everyday New Mexicans that are being affected by criminal violence.”

State Rep. Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) wrote on X, “If only @GovMLG cared about the high number of babies and children that have died from Fentanyl overdose in New Mexico.”

“Or cared about the 599 overdose deaths each year, putting New Mexico 45.89% higher than the national average OD death rate. Or if she had pushed for the increased penalty bills for criminals with guns that I cosigned with Rep Bill Rehm. Or pushed for the ‘tough on crime’ bills that we presented.”

She added, “If only she cared enough to look at other states and how they have successfully lowered crime with task forces in high-crime areas that target criminals with guns.”

One person wrote, “What are you going to do to stop violent criminals? Guns are inanimate and in no way, shape, or form commit violent crime. People commit crime and it’s cowardice to blame inanimate objects. Not fooled.”

“This is on YOU.  You have created the crisis. The Constitution CANNOT be suspended because of a State public emergency that you have no authority to initiate & make up based on the policies YOU put into place,” another wrote, adding, “THE CHILD’S BLOOD IS ON YOU & THOSE THAT SUPPORT YOUR INSANITY. OWN IT. Because I guarantee I will let everyone know about throughout NM. You will not be able to escape the truth of what you are responsible for. I will not be silent.” 

“Disregard and flatly ignore NM Executive Order 2023-130,” wrote state Rep. John Block (R-Alamogordo).

The New Mexico Shooting Sports Association wrote, “For years, our Governor has constantly attacked law enforcement and peaceful gun owners while violent crime spiraled out of control. With every legislative measure passed, the problem has only become worse. This only stops when violent criminals are held accountable.”

Here are some other notable replies to Lujan Grisham’s latest order: 

Lujan Grisham declares ‘gun violence’ emergency, uses $750K for gun grabs

NM responds to ​​Gov. Lujan Grisham declaring a ‘gun violence’ emergency Read More »

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