45th President Donald J. Trump’s campaign rally in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is scheduled for Thursday, October 31, 2024, but the event has been overshadowed by controversy over parking restrictions imposed by far-left Democrat State Land Commissioner Stephanie Garcia Richard.
Her decision to block parking at the Isleta Amphitheater initially planned as a primary parking location, has fueled accusations of political bias, with some critics calling her actions an authoritarian interference aimed at disrupting the rally. Trump’s campaign has had to make alternative arrangements, sharing updated parking and event details with supporters in anticipation of the large turnout expected.
In a campaign email to attendees, the Trump team outlined key logistics for the event. The rally, set to be held outdoors at CSI Aviation Operations in Albuquerque, will begin with shuttles operating from off-site parking lots starting at 5:30 a.m. and event doors opening at 8:00 a.m. Attendees must arrive early, as off-site parking lots will fill rapidly.
Despite originally securing an agreement with Live Nation to use the Isleta Amphitheater’s extensive parking area, Commissioner Garcia Richard blocked this option, citing the venue’s lease restrictions as a thin excuse. She argued that Isleta’s contract only permits parking for events held on its premises, an explanation many critics view as selectively enforced, especially since it has been relaxed for many other events.
Garcia Richard’s stance has drawn sharp criticism from New Mexico Republicans, who argue that her actions are a blatant attempt to hinder Trump’s campaign. Critics describe her decision as a “fascist” maneuver aimed at stifling free expression and obstructing a political event she opposes. They contend that Garcia Richard’s invocation of lease terms is hypocritical, pointing out that exceptions have been made for other non-amphitheater events in the past.
Four main parking locations have been designated for the event. The primary lots include a private “Red Lot” at 5441 Turing Dr. SE and the “Airport Lot” near I-25 and Sunport, which provides convenient shuttle access to the venue. Additionally, Montage at Mesa del Sol offers ADA-accessible parking in the “Blue Lot,” and ride-share drop-offs will be available nearby on Clark Carr Rd SE.
“Off-site parking will be available in multiple locations off-site from the venue with shuttles providing transportation to the venue. Parking will NOT be provided at the Isleta Amphitheater. Uber, Lyft, and ride-share services are encouraged. Off-site parking locations as well as Uber ride-share drop-off locations,” wrote the campaign.
The U.S. Secret Service will screen all guests upon entry, and specific prohibited items—such as bags, purses, drones, and firearms—will be strictly enforced to ensure the safety of the attendees.
Here is a full list of prohibited items, per the U.S. Secret Service:
• Aerosols
• Alcoholic beverages
• Appliances (i.e. Toasters)
• Backpacks, bags, roller bags, suitcases, and bags exceeding size restrictions
(12”x14”x5”)
• Balloons
• Balls
• Banners, signs, placards
• Chairs
• Coolers
• Drones and other unmanned aircraft systems
• E-Cigarettes
• Explosives of any kind (including fireworks)
• Firearms
• Glass, thermal and metal containers
• Laser lights and laser pointers
• Mace and/or pepper spray
• Noisemakers, such as air horns, whistles, drums, bullhorns, etc.
• Packages
• Poles, sticks and selfie sticks
• Spray containers
• Structures
• Supports for signs/placards
• Tripods
• Umbrellas
• Weapons
• And any other items that may pose a threat to the security of the event as determined by and at the discretion of the security screeners.
This parking debacle echoes broader tensions between the Trump campaign and New Mexico officials, highlighting the growing concerns over political neutrality in public resource management. The campaign’s response emphasizes its commitment to ensuring a smooth rally experience despite the setback, as they work to inform guests of new parking locations and shuttle times. The rally is expected to draw thousands — if not tens of thousands — of supporters, who will hear from Trump himself at around noon.