New Mexico

Smuggling, assaults, and reentry cases: Inside this week’s border numbers

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The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico released its weekly immigration and border crime enforcement statistics Friday, outlining a significant number of federal charges filed over the past week as part of ongoing border security operations in the state.

According to the report, in the one-week period ending February 27, 2026, federal prosecutors in New Mexico filed criminal charges against more than 220 individuals for immigration-related offenses. These prosecutions were carried out in coordination with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) El Paso, and other federal, state, and county law enforcement agencies.

The breakdown of charges includes:

  • 72 individuals charged with Illegal Reentry After Deportation under 8 U.S.C. § 1326.
  • 10 individuals charged with Alien Smuggling under 8 U.S.C. § 1324.
  • 61 individuals charged with Illegal Entry under 8 U.S.C. § 1325.
  • 80 individuals charged with Illegal Entry, violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. § 797), and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. § 1382). These cases stem from incidents occurring within the newly designated National Defense Area in New Mexico.

Federal officials noted that many of the defendants charged with illegal reentry had prior criminal convictions. Those prior offenses included fleeing the scene of an accident involving death or serious bodily injury, illegal firearm possession by a noncitizen, and prior immigration violations.

One case highlighted in this week’s report involved Jose Cuyuch De Paz, who was encountered by U.S. Border Patrol agents near 505 McNutt Road in Sunland Park after allegedly entering the United States unlawfully on foot. Authorities state that when agents attempted to detain him, De Paz fled into a residential neighborhood, scaling fences and running through backyards. A pursuing agent followed footprints before a fence gave way during the chase, causing both the agent and the suspect to fall. Prosecutors allege that De Paz kicked the agent multiple times during the struggle. A second agent arrived to assist, and De Paz was subdued and arrested. He now faces charges of illegal reentry and assault on a federal officer. Court filings indicate he has denied striking or kicking the agent.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office emphasized that protecting law enforcement personnel remains a central priority in border enforcement efforts. So far in Fiscal Year 2026, 18 El Paso Sector Border Patrol agents have been assaulted. That follows 88 reported assaults during Fiscal Year 2025. Federal authorities stated that U.S. Border Patrol is working closely with the FBI and federal prosecutors to pursue charges in assault cases in order to deter violence against officers operating along the border.

These prosecutions are part of a broader federal enforcement initiative known as Operation Take Back America, a Department of Justice effort aimed at combating illegal immigration, dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and targeting violent crime.

Under President Donald Trump’s administration, federal officials have identified border security and public safety as top priorities. In New Mexico, enhanced enforcement at both the border and within the interior of the district has led to arrests of individuals accused not only of immigration violations but also of more serious offenses, including human trafficking, sexual assault, and crimes against children, according to federal authorities.

The District of New Mexico covers all 33 counties in the state and includes approximately 180 miles of international border with Mexico. Assistant U.S. Attorneys based in Albuquerque and Las Cruces handle immigration-related prosecutions in coordination with federal, state, and local partners.

Officials noted that the weekly figures reflect only criminal cases filed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and do not include individuals processed through civil or administrative immigration proceedings.

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Second court tosses residency challenge against GOP governor hopeful

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A Santa Fe district judge on Friday dismissed a legal challenge seeking to remove Republican gubernatorial candidate Duke Rodriguez from the 2026 primary ballot, marking the second court ruling this week rejecting claims about his eligibility.

State District Judge Matthew Wilson determined that the most recent complaint, filed by fellow Republican candidate James Ellison, was not submitted within the required procedural timeline. Under state law, plaintiffs seeking expedited review in election-related cases must request a hearing within 10 days. The court found that requirement had not been met.

Ellison, a former Public Regulation Commissioner who is also pursuing the Republican nomination for governor, filed the lawsuit without legal representation. He argued that Rodriguez did not satisfy New Mexico’s constitutional residency requirements and further alleged that the Secretary of State’s Office failed to properly verify those qualifications. Specifically, the complaint questioned whether Rodriguez had maintained continuous voter registration in New Mexico for the five years required under the state constitution.

Duke Rodriguez

Following the ruling, Ellison acknowledged that he was unfamiliar with certain procedural deadlines when filing the case.

“I did file this case on my own without representation, and I simply was not aware of all the timelines and requirements,” Ellison said. He indicated he is reviewing whether to appeal the dismissal to the New Mexico Supreme Court.

Rodriguez’s attorney, former state Sen. Jacob Candelaria, argued that the complaint failed on procedural grounds and described the litigation as politically motivated. Candelaria noted that courts have now twice dismissed residency-based challenges to Rodriguez’s candidacy within the same week.

Earlier in the week, a district judge in Aztec rejected a separate lawsuit filed by former Bernalillo County Republican Party Chair John Rockwell and Navajo Dam resident James Maes. That complaint similarly alleged that Rodriguez did not meet the residency requirements outlined in the New Mexico Constitution. In that case, Rodriguez’s legal team argued that constitutional residency qualifications apply to holding office rather than appearing on the ballot.

According to the New Mexico Secretary of State’s Office, the state constitution requires candidates for governor to have been continuously registered to vote in New Mexico for five years and to have maintained residence in the state during that period. A spokesperson previously confirmed that Rodriguez initially registered to vote in New Mexico in 2010. His registration was canceled in 2021 during a routine voter list maintenance process conducted in compliance with the federal National Voter Registration Act. He re-registered to vote in New Mexico on Jan. 14, 2025.

Court filings in prior litigation have referenced Rodriguez describing himself at times as a resident of Scottsdale, Arizona. Public records also indicate that in past years, certain court correspondence sent to an Arizona address associated with Rodriguez was returned as undeliverable. Those details formed part of the arguments raised by challengers questioning his eligibility.

Ellison’s candidacy comes after a series of party registration changes in recent years. In August 2022, he changed his voter registration from Democrat to Decline-To-State. At the time, state law required that no more than two members of the three-person Public Regulation Commission be affiliated with the same political party. Then-Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham appointed Ellison to the PRC in January 2023.

James Ellison

According to public voter registration records, Ellison registered as a Republican in February 2025. He had previously stated in a January 2026 interview with the Santa Fe New Mexican, “Let me say this: I did not leave the Democrat Party.”

Rodriguez, a former New Mexico cabinet secretary and current cannabis industry executive, announced his candidacy for governor in December. He is one of several Republicans seeking the party’s nomination. Other declared candidates include Ellison, state Sen. Steve Lanier of Aztec, Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull, and former New Mexico Judicial Standards Commission Chair Doug Turner.

The Republican primary election is scheduled for June 2. Additional legal action remains possible if Ellison or others pursue appeals.

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Leger Fernandez embarrasses NM with bonkers claim about popular policy

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Far-left New Mexico Democrat Teresa Leger Fernandez is drawing sharp criticism after making what many are calling an insane claim about voter ID laws, asserting that Republicans support voter identification requirements because “they don’t want women to vote… they don’t want working families to vote.”

The comment, which circulated widely on social media this week, immediately sparked backlash from critics who say the statement is not only inflammatory but deeply patronizing. The underlying implication, they argue, is that women and working families are somehow incapable of obtaining or presenting a government-issued ID — a requirement that already exists for countless everyday activities.

In New Mexico, that message appears to be wildly out of step with voters. A KOB 4 poll published February 4, 2026, found that 93% of New Mexicans support requiring voter ID. That level of agreement cuts across demographic and partisan lines, making the issue one of the least controversial election integrity measures in the state.

National data mirrors that overwhelming support.

According to the Pew Research Center, 83% of Americans favor requiring all voters to show a government-issued photo ID to vote. That includes 95% of Republicans and 71% of Democrats. Just 16% oppose such requirements.

Similarly, Gallup reports that 84% of Americans support photo ID requirements, including 98% of Republicans, 84% of independents, and 67% of Democrats. In a separate question, 83% said they support requiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote for the first time.

Even mainstream media outlets have acknowledged the broad consensus. CNN’s Harry Enten recently stated, “The bottom line is this: Voter ID is NOT controversial in this country. A photo ID to vote is NOT controversial in this country. It is not controversial by party and it is not controversial by race. The vast majority of Americans agree.” NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Llamas similarly noted that while voter ID enjoys wide public support, most Democrats on Capitol Hill continue to oppose it.

Globally, voter identification is hardly unusual. Countries like Mexico require robust voter ID systems. Mexico instituted a secure voter credential following election controversies in the 1990s to strengthen public trust in elections. Today, Mexico’s voter ID card is considered one of the most secure forms of identification in the country and is widely accepted for banking and official transactions.

The United States has identification requirements for boarding airplanes, purchasing alcohol, entering federal buildings, and countless other routine activities. Critics argue it strains credibility to suggest that requiring ID to vote — arguably one of the most important civic acts — is somehow discriminatory.

Supporters also point to federal proposals like the SAVE Act (Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act), which aims to ensure that only U.S. citizens are registered to vote in federal elections by requiring documentary proof of citizenship. Proponents say the measure strengthens election integrity and public confidence without restricting lawful voters.

The broader debate raises a pointed question: If over 80% — and in New Mexico’s case, over 90% — of voters support voter ID, why are Democratic leaders framing it as voter suppression?

Critics of Leger Fernandez argue her comments insult the very constituencies she claims to defend. Women, working parents, and minority voters across New Mexico routinely present ID to cash checks, pick up prescriptions, or verify identity for employment. To suggest they cannot do the same at a polling place, opponents say, is not advocacy — it is condescension.

As voter ID continues to receive overwhelming bipartisan support nationwide, statements like these may resonate more in Washington activist circles than with everyday New Mexicans who overwhelmingly favor commonsense election safeguards.

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Violent incidents shake NM: BernCo sergeant dead, NMSP officer shot at

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A tragic Monday unfolded across New Mexico as two separate law enforcement incidents shook communities from Albuquerque to Fort Sumner — including the heartbreaking line-of-duty death of a veteran sergeant with the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office.

Line-of-Duty Death on I-40

The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office confirmed late Monday evening that one of its sergeants was killed in the line of duty following a traffic stop along Interstate 40 near Carnuel.

“The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office is heartbroken to confirm one of our sergeants was killed in the line of duty this evening,” the agency said in a statement. “We ask for prayers for the sergeant’s family, loved ones, and our agency during this unimaginable loss. Please allow space for the family to be notified and grieve. Verified updates will be shared later this evening through official BCSO channels.”

BCSO released the name of the fallen sergeant, Michael Shlattman, who was hired in 2012, being promoted to sergeant on July 13, 2024. Shlattman was involved in many assignments, including as a detective in Special Investigations and Auto Theft, as well as a task force officer with the U.S. Marshals Service and the Drug Enforcement Administration, according to KOB 4.

The Sheriff’s Office noted, “On the evening of February 23, 2026, just before 5:00 p.m., Sergeant Schlattman called over the radio to advise he was conducting a traffic stop. While he was outside the vehicle, a semi truck struck the rear of his department issued vehicle, ultimately pinning him beneath. Sergeant Schlattman died on scene as a result of his injuries.”

Earlier in the evening, reporters from KOB 4 relayed breaking developments from the scene. Reporter Tessa Mentus posted that all lanes of I-40 between Tramway and Carnuel were shut down as deputies responded to what officials initially described only as a situation involving a deputy during a traffic stop.

Witnesses at the scene told KOB 4 that a semi-truck crashed into the deputy while the sergeant was conducting the stop. Authorities had not confirmed additional details immediately, nor whether others were injured. Deputies emphasized there was no ongoing threat to the public.

Traffic in the Albuquerque metro area ground to a halt for hours, with major congestion reported on Juan Tabo, Tramway, and Central Avenue as drivers were rerouted around the closure.

“This is every agency’s worst nightmare, and tonight it is ours,” said Sheriff John Allen. “Sergeant Schlattman was a servant leader and a protector in the truest sense. He was the kind of supervisor who never asked a deputy to do something he would not do himself. Our hearts are broken, and we are asking our community to carry this family, and this agency, in your prayers.”

Sergeant Schlattman, BCSO

The New Mexico State Police issued a statement offering support to BCSO.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the line-of-duty death of a Sergeant with the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. The men and women of the New Mexico State Police stand shoulder to shoulder with BCSO during this unimaginable time. We pray for strength and peace for the deputy’s family and for every member of the agency grieving this tremendous loss.”

Second Incident: Officer Shot At Near Fort Sumner

In a separate and alarming incident Monday, New Mexico State Police announced they are actively searching for a man and woman who allegedly shot at an officer during a traffic stop near U.S. 285 at milepost 185.

According to NMSP, the officer involved in that incident is okay. However, authorities are warning residents in and around the Fort Sumner area to remain indoors and lock their doors while law enforcement conducts an active search.

Officials described the suspects as traveling in a gray Kia bearing Texas license plate XMX8165. “Do not approach. Call 911 immediately if seen,” the agency said. Officers are actively searching for the male suspect pictured in NMSP’s alert and his female accomplice.

Agents have identified the female suspect as Makaela Johnson, who was accompanying the male suspect. Johnson has an outstanding warrant for the following charges:

• Conspiracy to Commit First-Degree Murder

• Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Assault Upon a Peace Officer with a Deadly Weapon

• Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery

• Harboring a Felon

• Receiving or Transferring a Stolen Motor Vehicle

• Escape from a Peace Officer

• Larceny

A photo of the suspected male assailant is pictured:

New Mexico State Police

The back-to-back incidents have left many New Mexicans shaken, underscoring the dangers law enforcement officers face daily.

Political Leaders Respond

Republican Party of New Mexico Chairwoman Amy Barela issued a statement mourning the fallen sergeant and condemning violence against law enforcement.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the line-of-duty death of a sergeant with the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Department,” Barela wrote, adding, “We pray for strength and peace for the sergeant’s family and for every member of the sheriff’s department as well as surrounding law enforcement agencies grieving this tremendous loss.”

As investigations continue in both incidents, communities across the state are left mourning, praying, and waiting for further updates — reminded once again of the profound sacrifices made by those who serve in law enforcement.

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Gun bills dead, ICE facilities shuttered: Inside the most divisive NM session yet

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The 2026 New Mexico Legislative Session concluded with a sharp partisan divide over public safety, taxes, healthcare, immigration policy, and government expansion. While lawmakers advanced several significant measures, dozens of high-profile proposals were defeated, leaving both sides claiming victories and frustrations.

Key Measures That Passed

Among the most notable bipartisan wins was HB80, which strengthens the state’s Oil and Gas Reclamation Fund. The bill increases dedicated revenue for plugging abandoned wells, accelerates land restoration, and requires annual transparency reporting. Supporters framed the measure as a fiscally responsible way to protect taxpayers from footing the bill for environmental cleanup while maintaining energy production jobs.

Healthcare reforms also featured prominently. HB99 modernized New Mexico’s Medical Malpractice Act by clarifying liability standards and limiting the “stacking” of damage awards when multiple providers are involved. Lawmakers argued the reform would help stabilize malpractice insurance costs and retain physicians in the state. Additionally, SB1 enacted the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact, allowing qualified out-of-state doctors to receive expedited licensure in New Mexico — a move aimed at addressing persistent provider shortages, particularly in rural areas.

Public safety legislation included HB61, which increases penalties for aggravated battery against peace officers by elevating certain offenses to second-degree felonies. Lawmakers said the bill strengthens protections for law enforcement personnel.

The House also adopted HR1, creating a bipartisan investigative committee with subpoena power to examine unanswered questions surrounding Jeffrey Epstein’s activities at Zorro Ranch and the response of state and local agencies.

Major Bills That Were Defeated

Several controversial measures were halted this session. SB17, dubbed the “Stop Illegal Gun Trade Act,” failed after facing opposition over new regulations on firearm dealers, expanded reporting mandates, and compliance requirements. Opponents argued the bill would burden lawful businesses without targeting criminals.

Similarly, HJR3, a proposed constitutional amendment establishing enforceable environmental rights, was defeated amid concerns that its broad language could trigger extensive litigation and regulatory challenges.

In the area of crime reform, nearly 25 Republican-backed proposals were introduced addressing fentanyl trafficking, repeat offenders, competency procedures, and expanded victim reparations. Most did not advance out of committee.

Tax reform efforts also stalled. Proposals included eliminating state income tax on tips, reducing taxes on overtime and Social Security income, expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit, and creating credits for foster parents and caregivers. None of the comprehensive package reached final passage.

Housing affordability measures — including zero-percent down loans for first-time homebuyers and restrictions on corporate home purchases — also failed to advance.

Controversial Measures That Passed

Democrats advanced several major initiatives that sparked debate.

SB241 expands the state’s childcare assistance system and broadens eligibility, raising concerns among critics about potential oversight challenges and long-term fiscal sustainability.

HB9 restricts public bodies from entering into federal immigration detention agreements, while HB124 establishes a “New Americans Division” within the Workforce Solutions Department.

SB30 repeals abortion reporting requirements previously codified in state law, eliminating certain public health data collection mandates.

Election policy changes came through SB264, which prohibits armed federal personnel from being present at polling locations within 28 days of an election.

Finally, HJR5 advanced a constitutional amendment that would allow legislators to receive a salary of up to $70,000 annually, pending voter approval.

A Session Marked by Division

The 2026 session reflected deep ideological differences over crime policy, taxation, healthcare access, immigration enforcement, election procedures, and the proper scope of government. While lawmakers secured progress in select areas — particularly healthcare licensing reform and energy reclamation — many high-profile initiatives on both sides stalled.

As the legislature adjourned, both parties signaled that these unresolved debates will likely return in future sessions, ensuring that the policy battles of 2026 are far from over. It is also unclear what Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham will sign or veto, or if she may call the Legislature back in for a special session.

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Democrats’ gun grab collapses as major anti-2A bills go down in flames

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In the final stretch of New Mexico’s legislative session, two sweeping gun control measures championed by progressive Democrats have effectively collapsed — a major victory for New Mexicans’ Second Amendment rights.

Senate Bill 17, the so-called “Stop Illegal Gun Trade and Extremely Dangerous Weapons Act,” was rolled indefinitely in the House Judiciary Committee, halting what critics described as one of the most aggressive gun control packages ever introduced in New Mexico. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 261, which sought to dramatically expand so-called “gun-free zones” around polling places and ballot drop boxes, failed to advance out of the House Government, Elections and Indian Affairs Committee after Ranking Member Rep. John Block forcefully exposed what he called “massive holes” in the legislation.

According to reporting from the Santa Fe New Mexican, the bill’s sponsors admitted the bill’s effective death, with state Sen. Debbie O’Malley telling the outlet, “There’s not enough time to hear it again.”

With time running out in the session, Democrats were unable to muster the momentum needed to ram the bills through — despite heavy pressure from national gun control groups. Pro-gun groups, lawmakers like Rep. Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park), concerned citizens, and others were instrumental in the death of the radical bill — described the most far-reaching anti-gun measure in the entire country.

SB 17: Sweeping Ban and Registry Scheme Halted

SB 17 would have imposed broad prohibitions on commonly owned gas-operated semi-automatic firearms and standard-capacity magazines — firearms that are overwhelmingly used for lawful purposes including self-defense, sport shooting, and hunting. Opponents argued the bill directly conflicted with the U.S. Supreme Court’s “common use” standard under the Second Amendment.

Beyond firearm bans, SB 17 layered on costly “site hardening” mandates for federally licensed firearm dealers, many of whom are small business owners already subject to extensive ATF regulation. The bill also attempted to create mechanisms critics warned could function as a de facto state gun registry — raising serious constitutional concerns about commandeering federal records and creating conflicts with federal law.

Perhaps most alarming to opponents was a provision forcing gun dealers to submit annual certifications under threat of felony charges for technical paperwork errors. Critics characterized this as a “zero tolerance trap” that would punish law-abiding retailers for minor administrative mistakes while doing nothing to deter violent criminals. Data cited during debate indicated retail theft accounts for a tiny fraction of crime guns, undermining the bill’s stated premise.

Ultimately, SB 17 stalled and was rolled indefinitely in House Judiciary — effectively killing it for the session.

SB 261: Expanded Gun-Free Zones Defeated

SB 261 attempted to transform polling places and ballot drop boxes into expanded gun-free zones by creating new 100-foot and 50-foot no-carry buffers. The legislation would have stripped existing exemptions for concealed handgun license holders — disarming thousands of law-abiding citizens the moment they stepped near a polling entrance.

More troubling, critics warned the bill jeopardized public safety by restricting law enforcement’s authority. Under SB 261, officers would have been required to be “requested” by an election official to carry within certain zones — replacing their general authority to act in the line of duty with a bureaucratic permission structure.

During its hearing in House Government, Rep. John Block aggressively questioned the bill’s language and consequences. He argued it would create confusion for responding officers, expose citizens to petty misdemeanor charges for carrying even non-functional firearm components such as frames or receivers, and potentially delay emergency response in volatile situations.

Block warned that hamstringing police authority around polling locations could have the opposite of the intended effect — undermining security rather than enhancing it. His line of questioning exposed what critics described as sloppy drafting and unintended consequences, ultimately contributing to the bill being rolled without a vote.

A Major Win for Gun Owners

With both SB 17 and SB 261 now effectively dead, gun owners and constitutional advocates are celebrating what they view as a critical firewall against sweeping restrictions.

As the session closes, the failure of these measures underscores a broader reality: even in a Democrat-controlled Legislature, radical gun control proposals face steep resistance when constitutional scrutiny, public safety concerns, and procedural accountability are brought to bear.

For now, New Mexico’s law-abiding gun owners retain their rights — and lawmakers who attempted to curtail them will likely face continued pushback from constituents in future sessions.

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Radical climate plan dead, but sweeping gun ban surges forward

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Two of the most hotly debated bills of the session — one targeting emissions policy and the other unconstitutional sweeping gun regulations — triggered marathon hearings, sharp partisan divides, and dueling victory statements this week at the Roundhouse.

Clear Horizons Act Goes Down in the Senate

On Wednesday, the Senate rejected Senate Bill 18, the so-called “Clear Horizons Act,” on a 19–23 vote, with seven Democrats joining all Republicans in opposition. The measure, sponsored by Senate President Pro Tempore Mimi Stewart, D-Albuquerque, would have placed into state statute emissions-reduction benchmarks first advanced under Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s administration.

According to reporting by the Santa Fe New Mexican, the bill’s defeat appeared likely even before the final vote, despite emotional appeals from supporters on the floor.

Following the vote, Senate Republicans declared what they called a “massive victory,” saying they “led the charge to defeat the highly-publicized and detrimental ‘Clear Horizons’ environmental initiative.”

“This proposal sought to codify an impossible-to-attain ‘zero emissions’ environmental mandate by the year 2050,” the caucus said in its official release.

In a joint statement, Senate Republicans added:

“Today is a great day for New Mexican citizens, employees, employers, industry leaders, small business owners, investors, and entrepreneurs. We are proud to stand united in our fierce opposition to radical and damaging policies like Senate Bill 18 that seek to destroy our state’s lifeline: our vital industries and businesses.”

Environmental groups sharply criticized the outcome. As reported by the Santa Fe New Mexican, Demis Foster of Conservation Voters New Mexico said lawmakers “chose to side with a fear-based disinformation campaign led by the state’s polluting industries.”

Supporters on the Senate floor framed the bill as a moral and practical necessity. According to the newspaper, Sen. Bill Soules, D-Las Cruces, warned that natural disasters are no longer hypothetical.

“Natural disaster, devastation on our communities, isn’t a matter of if. It’s a matter of when,” Soules said.

Sen. Harold Pope, D-Albuquerque, emphasized New Mexico’s role as the nation’s second-largest oil producer, arguing the state has a responsibility to lead on climate policy.

Despite those appeals, the coalition against SB 18 held firm, leaving the governor’s climate goals in executive policy rather than state law.

Gun Bill Advances After Hourslong Showdown

While SB 18 died in the Senate, another controversial proposal — Senate Bill 17, known as the “Stop Illegal Gun Act” — survived its first House test after an hourslong and often tense committee hearing.

The House Commerce and Economic Development Committee passed SB 17 on a 6–5 vote, sending it to the House Judiciary Committee. Rep. Janelle Anyanonu (D-Bernalillo County) was the only Democrat to vote with all Republicans against the measure.

The bill would impose unconstitutional new regulations on licensed gun dealers, require inventory tracking and security measures, restrict sales of magazines holding more than 10 rounds, and prohibit the sale of gas-operated semiautomatic firearms, including rifles such as AR-15s and AK-47s. Existing owners would be allowed to keep their firearms.

Democrat sponsors described the bill as a “commonsense” effort to reduce gun trafficking and violence. Rep. Andrea Romero, D-Santa Fe, said in a statement:

“SB 17 allows us to take commonsense steps to reduce gun violence and improve public safety by holding retailers more accountable for enforcing our existing laws, while prohibiting the sale of the most dangerous, military-grade weapons used in mass shootings.”

Opposition was swift and vocal. House Republicans called the bill “an outright assault on the Second Amendment and on the freedoms of responsible New Mexicans.”

“Instead of addressing the violent crime crisis plaguing our communities, Democrats are choosing to punish law-abiding citizens and small business owners. That is not public safety. That is political theater,” the caucus said in a statement.

Gun store owners warned the regulations could force closures. Amanda Flores of Zia Guns in Roswell said licensed retailers are already heavily regulated.

“We are trained to identify and stop illegal purchases,” Flores said. “We are not part of the problem, we are already part of the solution.”

Anthony Segura of the New Mexico Shooting Sports Association cautioned that magazine limits could endanger lawful gun owners.

“In a real self-defense situation, there is no way to predict how many rounds you may need to defend your life,” he said.

With SB 18 defeated and SB 17 advancing, the Roundhouse remains a battleground over energy, crime, constitutional rights, and the direction of public policy in New Mexico — with both sides signaling they are far from finished.

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Another newborn killed in NM: Infant discovered in portable toilet holding tank

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A Las Cruces woman is behind bars after police say she gave birth to a baby girl inside a portable toilet and left the newborn in the holding tank, resulting in the child’s death.

According to authorities, 38-year-old Sonia Jimenez was arrested following an investigation that began late Saturday night. Around 10:30 p.m., staff at Memorial Medical Center contacted law enforcement after Jimenez arrived at the hospital appearing to have recently delivered a baby. Medical personnel quickly realized the newborn was not with her and alerted police.

Officers began questioning those connected to Jimenez, including her boyfriend, who told investigators the two had been at Burn Lake earlier in the evening. He said Jimenez had used a portable restroom at the location but claimed he was unaware she had gone into labor or delivered a child.

Police responded to the site and located the infant inside the portable toilet’s holding tank. Investigators believe Jimenez delivered the baby inside the unit, cut the umbilical cord herself, and placed the newborn into the chemical-filled tank. Authorities say the baby girl died after inhaling and swallowing the blue chemical solution inside. An autopsy conducted Monday ruled the cause of death as drowning.

Jimenez has been charged with a first-degree felony count of intentional child abuse resulting in death. She is currently being held without bond at the Doña Ana County Detention Center. Police have indicated that her boyfriend is unlikely to face charges, as investigators do not believe he knew a birth had occurred.

The tragic case has reignited painful memories of previous newborn deaths across New Mexico that shocked communities statewide.

In 2022, an Albuquerque teenager was charged after allegedly giving birth in a hospital bathroom and killing the newborn shortly afterward. That case sparked renewed debate over access to pregnancy support resources and the state’s Safe Haven law, which allows parents to legally surrender a newborn without facing criminal charges.

More recently, in Hobbs, authorities arrested a woman accused of throwing her newborn baby into a dumpster, where the infant was later discovered. That case drew national attention and once again raised questions about why some mothers do not utilize safe surrender options available across the state.

New Mexico’s Safe Haven Act permits a parent to relinquish a baby, typically within 90 days of birth, at hospitals, fire stations, and certain other designated locations without fear of prosecution. Despite these protections, tragic cases involving newborn deaths continue to occur.

The Las Cruces case remains under investigation. Law enforcement officials have not yet indicated whether additional charges could be filed as more evidence is reviewed.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a crisis pregnancy, resources are available through local nonprofits like Care Net, hospitals, healthcare providers, and confidential hotlines that can help ensure the safety of both mother and child.

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NM schools still last, but state Senate panel votes to keep governor in charge

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A long-running effort to overhaul how New Mexico oversees its public schools came to an abrupt halt this week, leaving the governor with even greater control over an education system that continues to rank last in the nation — behind all 50 states and the District of Columbia — according to multiple respected national rankings.

The Senate Education Committee voted 6–2 on Wednesday to reject Senate Joint Resolution 3, sponsored by Sen. Bill Soules, D–Las Cruces. The proposal would have shifted authority away from a governor-appointed Cabinet secretary and restored oversight to an appointed state school board and superintendent.

Soules framed the resolution as an attempt to bring continuity and insulation from political swings, arguing it would stabilize education governance “regardless of which party is in power.” His push comes after years of rapid turnover at the Public Education Department (PED) under Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham — a pattern critics say has produced more disruption than reform.

With Lujan Grisham now entering the final year of her second term, the defeat of SJR 3 ensures that sweeping authority over education policy will remain concentrated in the executive branch, allowing the next governor to inherit the same centralized power structure despite decades of poor outcomes.

The chilly reception marked a reversal from last year, when a similar proposal cleared the same committee by a 7–2 vote before ultimately stalling. New Mexico operated under a school board and superintendent model until 2003, when then-Gov. Bill Richardson moved PED under the governor’s direct control through a Cabinet secretary. The change was billed as a way to improve accountability, but critics argue it has instead tied education policy to political cycles while student performance has continued to lag.

Only one senator besides Soules backed the resolution in committee. Sen. Gabriel Ramos, R–Silver City, said the current structure gives too much unchecked authority to whoever occupies the governor’s office.

“It alleviates the demanding spirit of whoever the governor is at that time,” Ramos said. “I think we need to do things differently.”

Opposition came not only from Democrats on the committee but also from the Public Education Department itself. Greg Frostad, PED’s assistant secretary for policy and technology, testified against the measure, warning it would “add to the bureaucracy” and weaken accountability by eliminating a single, centralized leader.

Soules countered that details of board appointments could only be finalized after lawmakers approved the resolution and voters passed a constitutional amendment. He outlined a potential framework that included representation from the governor, legislative leaders of both parties, teachers unions, Indigenous tribes, and the New Mexico School Superintendents Association.

Even so, several Democrats raised conflicting objections — some worrying the governor would still wield too much influence, others arguing the change would “hamstring” future governors. Cindy Nava, D–Bernalillo, acknowledged the instability caused by frequent secretary turnover but said she did not want to “punish future governors” by limiting their control.

Meanwhile, Sen. Ant Thornton, R–Sandia Park, voiced concern the overhaul could disrupt recent reforms, noting, “Not that PED has a good record based on the history of where we are right now,” but arguing the committee was beginning to steer the department “in the right direction.”

With SJR 3 defeated, that direction remains firmly under gubernatorial authority — a reality that persists even as New Mexico’s education system continues to post some of the worst outcomes in the country.

NM schools still last, but state Senate panel votes to keep governor in charge Read More »

Radical anti-gun bill advances: Dems push AR-15 ban to Senate floor

30 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

A sweeping gun control proposal that critics say represents one of the most extreme assaults on the Second Amendment in New Mexico history is now headed to the Senate floor.

Senate Bill 17, which would ban the sale of a broad range of semi-automatic firearms and impose heavy new mandates on federally licensed gun dealers, advanced out of the Senate Judiciary Committee Wednesday night on a 6–3 party-line vote. An effort to strip out the bill’s semi-automatic firearm and standard-capacity magazine bans failed on a 4–5 vote, clearing the way for the legislation to move forward in largely intact form.

Under SB 17, the sale of commonly owned rifles such as AR-15s and AK-style firearms would be prohibited, despite their widespread lawful use for self-defense, sporting, and training purposes. The bill also introduces a new regulatory regime for gun dealers that includes employee age and background check requirements, detailed inventory and sales tracking mandates, and expanded security obligations—violations of which could result in criminal penalties.

Supporters framed the bill as a public safety measure. Rep. Andrea Romero, a Democrat from Santa Fe and a co-sponsor of the legislation, claimed the proposal merely asks firearms retailers to act responsibly.

“This bill will simply ask gun dealers to do what responsible business owners already do: secure their inventory, train their employees, track their sales and stop selling military-grade weapons designed for mass casualties,” Romero said.

Gun rights advocates and Republicans strongly disagreed, warning that the bill tramples constitutional protections and targets law-abiding citizens rather than criminals.

“We’ve seen a history in New Mexico passing some unconstitutional laws sent back to the state. And I predict this is going to be much like that. I’m not a lawyer, but I can read,” said Crystal Brantley, R-Elephant Butte.

Even some Democratic lawmakers acknowledged the bill’s legal vulnerability. Antoinette Sedillo Lopez, D-Albuquerque, conceded the firearm ban portion could be struck down in court, but said she would still vote for it as a “very important policy.”

Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Joseph Cervantes, D-Las Cruces, echoed concerns he previously raised about the constitutionality of banning specific firearms. Nevertheless, he voted in favor of the bill, citing support for the dealer regulation provisions.

Opposition testimony came from gun owners, Second Amendment advocacy groups, and elected law enforcement officials, including the sheriffs of Roosevelt and Guadalupe counties. National Shooting Sports Foundation warned the proposal would make exercising constitutional rights in New Mexico “impossible for citizens to achieve.”

The National Rifle Association also opposed the bill, alongside numerous small business owners who said the measure would drive gun dealers out of the state.

Meanwhile, the state Department of Justice raised red flags in a memo to lawmakers, warning that SB 17 is likely to trigger litigation if enacted. Attorneys noted that a 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision places the burden squarely on the government to prove that gun restrictions are consistent with the nation’s historical tradition of firearm regulation.

The memo further cautioned that SB 17’s definition of “gas-operated firearm” may be far broader than supporters claim, potentially sweeping in commonly owned handguns used for self-defense, including models from Smith & Wesson, Walther, and Desert Eagle.

In response, New Mexico House Republicans sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Justice requesting a formal opinion on SB 17’s constitutionality, citing comments from Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon questioning similar weapon bans in other states.

The New Mexico Shooting Sports Association summarized the committee action bluntly, noting that SB 17 advanced on a 6–3 vote and that efforts to remove the semi-automatic firearm and magazine bans were defeated. The group warned the bill now poses a direct threat to the civil rights of lawful gun owners statewide.

As Jim Townsend, R-Artesia, put it, SB 17 is “if not one of the most contentious, the most contentious bill” of the session—a sign that the coming Senate floor debate will be as legally fraught as it is politically explosive.

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