New Mexico

NM leftists say Kamala Harris’ prosecutor past is ‘problematic’ for them

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In a recent discussion about Kamala Harris as the presumptive Democrat nominee for president, several New Mexico-based pro-abortion and “LGBTQ” groups expressed mixed reactions. 

Marshall Martinez, executive director of Equality New Mexico, voiced enthusiasm about Harris’s candidacy, noting, “It’s exciting to see a woman of color campaign for president.” However, he also acknowledged concerns, mentioning Harris’s controversial history as a prosecutor, stating, “Every candidate will likely be problematic for us in some kind of way.”

Rachel Lorenzo, founder and Executive Director of Indigenous Women Rising, offered a more neutral perspective. While acknowledging Harris’s engagement with issues like Black women’s maternal mortality rates, Lorenzo expressed reservations about Harris’s overall stance on “reproductive justice” (abortion).

Lorenzo emphasized that reproductive justice “isn’t just about abortion access; it’s about safe communities, access to good education, clean environments to raise our families in,” and raised concerns about Harris’s record on prostitution, pointing out that during her tenure in California, Harris supported shutting down websites that allowed “sex workers” to advertise safely.

Lorenzo also expressed frustration with the Biden administration’s lack of action on the Hyde Amendment, which restricts federal funding for abortion. 

Lorenzo highlighted the need for concrete actions over rhetoric, stating, “We heard great words from Biden on the campaign about protecting abortion access. One of the most basic things he could have done was recodify Roe v. Wade.”

The mixed reactions highlight a broader concern among some advocates about Harris’ ability to address the complexities of certain issues that placate the far-left progressives. 

While Martinez is hopeful about Harris’ potential impact, despite her “problematic” record, Lorenzo remains cautious, emphasizing the importance of action over words in addressing these critical issues.

Leftists are breaking with Harris over certain issues, and conservatives are alarmed at her far-left past, notably her being named the most progressive member while serving in the U.S. Senate. It is unclear how this will shape the race in New Mexico.

NM leftists say Kamala Harris’ prosecutor past is ‘problematic’ for them Read More »

Alternate reality: MLG says everything is fine at border czar Kamala Harris’ border

22 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In a Sunday appearance on “Face the Nation,” New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham faced scrutiny over her responses to questions about the state’s handling of the border crisis. Despite mounting evidence and concerns from residents and officials in other border states, Lujan Grisham’s defensive posture and dismissive remarks about the crisis have drawn significant criticism.

During the interview, Robert Costa questioned the governor about the Biden administration’s border policies and her role in addressing the issues. Lujan Grisham claimed, “Right now, border crossings are as low as they’ve ever been, certainly lower than they were in the Trump administration.”

This false assertion starkly contrasts with reports indicating ongoing challenges at the border, including increased encounters and a strain on local resources. The Center Square reported, “Accounting for all the data, including new ways the Biden administration is allowing foreign nationals to enter the country, the claims are verifiably false.”

Since Biden took power, at least 10 million illegal aliens have traveled illegally across the southern border. Since also since Biden took office in January 2021, fentanyl-related deaths have skyrocketed. In 2021 alone, there were over 71,000 deaths involving synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl. The crisis continued into 2022, with fentanyl being involved in nearly 70% of all drug overdose deaths, totaling approximately 73,838 deaths for the year.

However, Gov. Lujan Grisham has failed to take any measures to secure New Mexico’s border. Unlike all other border-state governors — Democrat and Republican — who have implemented stricter security protocols, Lujan Grisham has not committed to similar actions, leaving New Mexico vulnerable to the ramifications of inadequate border control. Her refusal to acknowledge the severity of the situation and to implement robust measures has been a point of contention.

When pressed about the need for more Border Patrol agents, Lujan Grisham deflected, attributing the lack of resources to Congressional inaction. She stated, “They [Republicans] did not do anything to pass a bipartisan border deal that put 1,500 more Border Patrol and 1,200 more ICE agents.” The so-called “deal” she referred to would have given mass amnesty to millions of criminal aliens entering the country illegally, a non-starter. 

However, facts show that this response overlooks her administration’s responsibility in advocating for and securing necessary resources to protect the state and its residents due to her pulling of the National Guard from the border and refusal to consider legislation to assist with the humanitarian crisis, which has opened up a channel for deadly fentanyl to kill countless citizens.

She then praised Joe Biden’s border czar, Kamala Harris, saying, “Hispanic voters here want is a prosecutor who’s got a history in a border state dealing with border and immigration issues that can cause risk, like her prosecution successfully and transnational gangs on drugs and guns.”

“And this is the second time we’ve seen Trump and his cast of characters be really clear. They don’t want immigration reform. They want fear, they want division, they’re going to continue to demonize Hispanics and Latinos and immigrant communities. And you know what they see? They see someone who’s tough, fair, balanced, pragmatic, and somebody they can relate to in terms of her own family. That motivates Hispanic voters,” she added. 

When asked about Harris being in charge of the border catastrophe, she said, “Well, as a straight shooter, thank you, Robert, and thank you, New Mexico voters. We have to be engaged in better diplomacy in Central America and South America. She did that very effectively.”

Lujan Grisham’s handling of the border issue is a stark disconnect from the realities faced by many in New Mexico and other border states. A recent FBI report noted the border crisis’ effect on higher crime in New Mexico. Her interview highlighted a concerning lack of urgency and proactive measures to address the complex challenges posed by the border crisis. This stance has led to growing frustration among constituents who feel that their concerns are being dismissed or minimized by state leadership.

Alternate reality: MLG says everything is fine at border czar Kamala Harris’ border Read More »

NM Dem delegates fall in line, pledge to back Harris for presidency

24 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Joe Biden won New Mexico’s primary election earlier this year, securing a significant portion of the state’s delegates. With Biden announcing that he will not seek reelection, these delegates are now falling in line with party bosses and supporting Kamala Harris as the Democrat nominee.

New Mexico’s delegates will attend the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago next month to elect the party’s presidential and vice presidential candidates and set the party’s platform. The state has 45 delegates and three alternates for this event.

Following Biden’s announcement, Democrat leaders in New Mexico expressed their support for Harris. Among the supporters are the state’s 11 automatic delegates, including Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, who praised Harris for her experience as a former prosecutor and her advocacy for reproductive rights.

New Mexico’s congressional delegation also endorsed Harris, with Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez highlighting Harris’ ability to bring “renewed energy, unity, and vibrancy” to the race, despite Harris’ far-left record and divisive rhetoric toward Republicans, young people, and many other groups. The state’s Democrat Party Chair, Jessica Velasquez, and Vice Chair, Manny Crespin, claimed Harris had extensive qualifications and experience.

As Harris began her campaign, she emphasized issues such as economic justice, gun safety, and reproductive rights. She is focusing on attacking 45th President Donald J. Trump, making erroneous claims he is attacking women’s rights, despite her supporting men taking women’s places in sports.

Delegates from New Mexico, including those from various congressional districts, are aligning behind Harris. Some have discussed potential vice-presidential picks, considering candidates from states like North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky to balance the ticket. 

Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, one of the pledged party leaders and elected official delegates, expressed his anticipation for participating in the convention, highlighting the importance of shaping the country’s direction at this critical moment. The nomination of Harris will happen in August during a “virtual” process, which many have noted is undemocratic and lacking transparency, especially since Harris has not won a single vote in the Democrat primary for president. 

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New Mexicans get more bad news amid crippling inflation crisis

18 Comments / New Mexico, News / By

New Mexico residents are bracing for a rise in their gas bills following the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission’s recent approval of a rate increase for New Mexico Gas Co. The decision, part of a settlement agreement, will see the average residential bill—based on usage of 53 therms per month—increase by $4.21, or 7%, starting October 1. 

This is less than the gas company’s initial request, which sought a more significant rate hike to cover a $30 million revenue deficiency; the final settlement brought this down by $19 million.

Commissioner Gabriel Aguilera expressed satisfaction with the settlement, stating, “I’m happy here with how the parties were able to reach an agreement.” However, the decision comes amidst broader economic pressures that are already straining household budgets.

New Mexico’s residents are facing increased costs across the board, particularly in essential areas like groceries and gasoline. Gas prices have seen a significant rise, with the cost per gallon for regular unleaded gasoline averaging $3.60 in 2024, reflecting a broader trend of rising energy costs nationwide. This marks a considerable increase from previous years, exacerbating the financial burden on consumers​.

Grocery prices have also climbed, with the latest data indicating a 0.2% increase from May to June 2024. Year-over-year, grocery costs have risen by 1.1%, contributing to a broader trend of food inflation that has seen prices increase by 26% since 2020. This situation is particularly challenging for low-income households, who are disproportionately affected by rising costs for everyday necessities.

The cumulative effect of these increases is placing significant stress on New Mexico’s residents, many of whom are already struggling in an inflationary economy under the Joe Biden/Kamala Harris administration. Though lower than initially proposed, the approved gas rate hike adds another layer of financial pressure. 

As Public Regulation Commissioner Pat O’Connell noted, while the settlement may work in this instance, the broader economic context necessitates careful consideration of future rate adjustments and their impacts on consumers.

These rising costs underscore the importance of effective regulatory oversight and support measures to help mitigate the economic burden on New Mexicans.

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New poll: Herrell pulls ahead of Vasquez in one of tightest U.S. House races

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An internal poll conducted by the Tarrance Group for former Representative Yvette Herrell (R) and the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) shows Herrell leading incumbent Representative Gabe Vasquez (D) within the margin of error. 

The poll, conducted from July 11-14 among 400 likely voters, reports Herrell ahead with 48% compared to Vasquez’s 46%, within the poll’s margin of error of ±4.9%.

According to a polling memo shared with Hotline, the generic ballot test also gave Republicans a slight advantage, with 46% support compared to 45% for Democrats. This survey was released following Vasquez’s first campaign advertisement against Herrell in June.

The race in New Mexico’s 2nd congressional district is one of the most competitive in the country, according to Hotline analysis. The political landscape has evolved since the survey, with growing Democratic optimism about Vice President Kamala Harris’s potential to outperform President Biden in Sun Belt states like New Mexico. This shift might bolster Vasquez’s chances, potentially tipping the scales in this closely contested race.

The poll results come as new information about Vasquez’s past emerges, including allegations of him using a racial slur against a former colleague and an arrest warrant executed by El Paso police earlier this year. The NRCC suggests that as voters become more aware of these issues, Herrell’s lead could widen.

NRCC spokeswoman Delanie Bomar commented, “Gabe Vasquez is shaking in his boots knowing his extreme policies and troubled past are putting his electoral chances in danger. With Yvette Herrell on the ballot, this district is in a prime position to flip red.”

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All-Dem NM congressional delegation refuses to attend Israeli PM’s speech

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In a controversial move, New Mexico Democrat Reps. Gabe Vasquez, Melanie Stansbury, and Teresa Leger Fernandez, along with Sens. Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Luján, boycotted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s joint address to Congress. Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democrats’ presumptive nominee for president, also chose not to attend, citing a scheduling conflict with a campaign event. This decision comes amidst a backdrop of heightened tensions following the deadly terrorist attack on Israel on October 7th.

The Republican Party of New Mexico responded sharply to the boycott, criticizing the Democratic lawmakers for their absence. “It’s an embarrassment that New Mexico’s Democratic Representatives and Senators are throwing a tantrum instead of listening to our allies and world leaders amid the ongoing war between Israel and Gaza, especially while the lives of American hostages are on the line,” stated Steve Pearce, Chairman of the Republican Party of New Mexico.

The GOP statement emphasized a perceived abandonment by Democrats of Israel, described as “America’s ally, the only Jewish nation and the sole democracy in the Middle East.” The Republicans argued that Democratic lawmakers have aligned themselves with pro-Hamas protesters and overlooked the rise of antisemitism on college campuses. The absence of the New Mexico Democrats was particularly noted given the ongoing crisis, including the captivity of five Americans held by Hamas.

“A Joint Session of Congress is one of the most important audiences given to a world leader and United States Senators have a duty to attend and listen. In the case of Israel–now–at this time of war–it is a solemn occasion with extremely significant diplomatic implications.  Israel deserves our unified and unwavering support,” wrote GOP nominee for U.S. Senate against Heinrich, Nella Domenici.  

Domenici’s campaign highlighted examples of Heinrich’s anti-Israel voting record:

  • Martin Heinrich voted for Bernie Sanders’ Resolution Requesting information on Israel’s human rights practices—a position that could have jeopardized Israel military aid and operations potentially freezing military aid to Israel when it is at war with the terrorist group Hamas. (2024) 
  • He co-authors letters with Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders to President Biden and Secretary Blinken that raise concerns about humanitarian conditions of the Palestinians but expresses no concern for the Israeli and American hostages that Hamas has been holding since October 7. (2023) 
  • He supports the 2-state solution. (2017) 
  • He opposed the relocation of the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem. (2017) 
  • He supported the 2016 UN Security Council Resolution 2334 which would have threatened the legitimacy of the state of Israel and its settlements. (2016) 
  • He supported the Iran Nuclear deal. (2015) 
  • He voted to allow Iran to access over $100 billion in foreign assets. (2015) 

In his address, Prime Minister Netanyahu underscored the critical situation, stating, “We are in the midst of a battle for our existence. This is not just a fight for Israel; it’s a fight for the future of the entire free world.” His speech aimed to rally support for Israel’s efforts and emphasize the importance of the country’s alliance with the United States.

The Republican Party of New Mexico contrasted the leadership of the state’s Democratic and Republican candidates, portraying the former as pandering to what they called “the extreme antisemitic wing of their base.” They lauded Republican candidates for their “unwavering support of Israel and the Jewish community” and their commitment to “bringing the American hostages back home.”

This political rift highlights a broader national debate over U.S. policy toward Israel and the Israeli-Hamas conflict, reflecting deep divisions within American politics. As the situation in the Middle East continues to unfold, the responses from U.S. political leaders are likely to remain a focal point of discussion and controversy.

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New Mexico’s startling rank in national at-risk youth report

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New Mexico ranks as the second most at-risk state for youth in 2024, only led by Louisiana, according to a new report from WalletHub. The state faces significant challenges, including the highest percentage of youth without a high school diploma and high rates of disconnected youth—those neither working nor in school. 

New Mexico also ranks high in youth obesity (4th), drug use (8th), and youth poverty (8th). The report underscores the need for more focused efforts to address these issues and improve the prospects of young residents.

Cassandra Happe, a WalletHub analyst, highlighted the broader implications: “A high share of youth who are not working, not getting education and generally stagnating in life can spell trouble for the future.” 

The report suggests that targeted policies and community engagement are essential to reverse these trends and provide better opportunities for at-risk youth.

Experts suggest that policymakers and communities invest in educational and vocational programs tailored to local needs. Enhancing digital connectivity, especially in rural areas, and fostering strong support networks are also crucial. 

Programs like 4-H, which emphasize skill-building and social capital, are highlighted as effective in reconnecting disconnected youth.

The report calls for a collective effort from parents, schools, and local authorities to provide practical support and encourage education and employment among young people. 

As the state grapples with these challenges, the focus remains on creating a supportive environment that offers hope and tangible opportunities for its youth.

At-Risk Youth in New Mexico (1=Most at Risk; 25=Avg.):

  • Overall Rank: 2nd
  • 5th – % of Disconnected Youth
  • 1st – % of Youth Without a High School Diploma
  • 4th – % of Overweight & Obese Youth
  • 8th – % of Youth Drug Users
  • 6th – Youth Labor Force Participation Rate
  • 8th – Youth Poverty Rate
  • 15th – % of Homeless Youth

For more details, visit the full WalletHub report here.

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Judge uses gun bans against Natives, Black slaves to uphold MLG’s gun grab

26 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In a new ruling, a New Mexico judge has upheld the state’s new anti-gun law forcing citizens to wait seven days before purchasing a firearm. The decision, handed down by the United States District Court for the District of New Mexico’s James O. Browning, denied a motion for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction filed by plaintiffs Samuel Ortega and Rebecca Scott. The plaintiffs argued that the Act violated their Second Amendment rights by unduly burdening their ability to purchase and possess firearms.

The court’s decision heavily relied on colonial-era historical precedents to justify the modern regulation. Judge James Browning cited early American laws that restricted firearm ownership for specific groups, such as Native Americans and Black slaves, to argue that the United States has a long history of regulating who can possess firearms. These historical laws, the judge noted, were designed to prevent individuals deemed dangerous from acquiring weapons, a principle that underpins the current Waiting Period Act.

“Colonial lawmakers, fearing the consequences of unregulated access to firearms and munitions, sought to regulate the sale of firearms and munitions,” the ruling stated. By referencing laws from the 18th and 19th centuries that prohibited the sale of firearms to Native Americans and Black slaves, the court argued that similar regulatory measures have existed since the founding of the nation.

The primary issue before the court was whether the Waiting Period Act infringed upon the Second Amendment rights of New Mexico citizens by imposing a mandatory delay on firearm purchases. The plaintiffs contended that the Act arbitrarily delayed their right to obtain arms, with significant criminal penalties for violations. However, the court found that the plaintiffs did not demonstrate a likelihood of success on the merits of their constitutional claim.

Judge Browning emphasized that the Act’s seven-day waiting period is consistent with historical traditions of firearm regulation against Black slaves and Native Americans. 

The ruling has significant implications for gun control measures in New Mexico and potentially sets a precedent for other states considering similar regulations. The judge highlighted the rise in firearm-related deaths in the United States and New Mexico, underscoring the public safety rationale behind the Act, despite proving no correlation between legal guns being the culprit for so-called “firearm-related deaths.” 

“New Mexico’s age-adjusted firearm death rate increased by eighty-seven percent between 2010 and 2021,” Browning’s ruling pointed out, citing state health department reports.

By upholding the Waiting Period Act, the court has reinforced the state’s ability to enact gun control measures aimed at reducing violence and ensuring that firearms are kept out of the hands of individuals who may pose a danger to themselves or others.

Following the ruling, the Firearms Policy Coalition wrote on X, “A New Mexico federal judge denied a motion for preliminary injunction against the state’s firearm waiting period today, saying that the law is historically supported by bans on gun sales to Native Americans and slaves,” sharing a screenshot of one of the ruling’s pages. 

Judge uses gun bans against Natives, Black slaves to uphold MLG’s gun grab Read More »

MLG admin. cooks up scheme to lure pro-abortion, ‘gender-affirming’ docs.

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The New Mexico Department of Health has launched a multi-state campaign aimed at attracting pro-abortion and “gender-affirming” healthcare professionals to New Mexico, per a report from the Santa Fe New Mexican.

“Every day we’re looking for ways to try to attract more people to New Mexico to meet the health care needs of our state,” Health Sec. Patrick Allen said. He emphasized that states like Texas and Arizona create a political and legal environment where healthcare providers are restricted from mutilating children and aborting babies up to birth.

The “Free to Provide” campaign, lasting one month, features online advertisements on social media in metropolitan areas of Texas and Arizona, as well as six billboards in the Medical Center Area of Houston, according to department spokesman Robert Nott, who formerly was a reporter at the New Mexican. 

The campaign cost approximately $350,000 and includes a dedicated website, freetoprovidenm.org, where healthcare workers can find information about New Mexico job opportunities, including links to the state’s Health Professional Loan Repayment Program and the Rural Health Care Practitioner Tax Credit Program.

In total, the state partnered with around three dozen New Mexico hospitals and clinics, consolidating and linking their job postings on the campaign’s website, organized into five regions for easy navigation. 

Allen highlighted the collaborative effort, saying, “They were enthusiastic. They’re like us — they’re interested in trying to hire good people, and anything that we can do to make their job openings more visible is a benefit to them.”

New Mexico has faced a shortage of healthcare workers for years, requiring thousands more hires to reach a standard provider-to-population ratio, according to a 2023 report from the New Mexico Health Care Workforce Committee.

At the end of the four-week campaign, the department will assess its impact and consider extending or expanding the campaign to other southwestern states if necessary. 

Allen reiterated the campaign’s goal, stating, “We need more of everything everywhere, whether it’s primary care providers or OBGYNs in Albuquerque or practitioners in rural parts of the state. We’re really trying to aim at that notion of, ‘This is a good place to practice, it’s a good place to live, and you can come here and practice without some of the risks and concerns that you face in other states.’”

What was not mentioned in the ad is the cost of malpractice insurance in the state, which previously was astronomical, has been reduced to a more manageable — yet expensive — level.

MLG admin. cooks up scheme to lure pro-abortion, ‘gender-affirming’ docs. Read More »

NM Dems react to Biden dropping out with clear message—and one big holdout

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On Sunday, Joe Biden dropped out of the presidential race despite for weeks insisting he would remain the Democrats’ nominee. He quickly endorsed his vice president, Kamala Harris. 

New Mexico Democrats responded with a pretty similar message: They want Kamala Harris, Biden’s choice.

New Mexico House Speaker Javier Martinez wrote on his X account, “I’m ready to help @KamalaHarris win New Mexico in the fall. Our Democracy, our freedoms, our way of life is at stake. Vamos con todo, @VP!!” 

The New Mexico Democrat Party touted Biden’s so-called accomplishments on its X page, writing, “We could not be more grateful for everything @JoeBiden has done for our country & Party.” 

Later in the day, it announced that its executive officers would be endorsing Harris, saying they wanted the “first Asian-American President of the United States,” referring to her Indian heritage.

Sen. Martin Heinrich endorsed Harris, calling her “an extraordinary leader with a proven track record of getting things done. As her colleague, I saw her commitment to fighting for working families up close.”

Rep. Melanie Stansbury of the First District wrote that she was “100%” behind Harris, adding, “As our Nation’s Vice President, Kamala Harris has led the way in passing generational legislation to transform our nations (sic) infrastructure, rebuild our economy, bring jobs back to the U.S, and tackle climate change.”

Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez followed suit, endorsing Harris to “take the baton” from Biden.

Kamala Harris “is the leader who can bridge the divide in our country & move our nation forward,” added Rep. Gabe Vasquez of the Second District.

Sen. Ben Ray Luján chimed in, “I believe in [Kamala] Harris to continue making a positive impact in our country. She has my support to be our nominee.”

With the entire New Mexico congressional delegation behind Harris, it is unclear how successful she will be in New Mexico, as her popularity nationwide, in many cases, is worse than Biden’s. 

It is noteworthy, however, that Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, an ally of Harris (who officiated the governor’s wedding in Washington, D.C.) did not endorse her in a statement wishing Biden well.

According to Emerson College polling, Trump leads Harris nationwide by six points. 

NM Dems react to Biden dropping out with clear message—and one big holdout Read More »

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