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Republican momentum grows in key New Mexico races as campaigns heat up

17 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Momentum is building for New Mexico Republicans as two high-profile races, for the U.S. Senate and the state’s Second Congressional District, show vital signs of GOP support in what has been considered a Democrat stronghold in recent years.

In a recent fundraising email, U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) rallied support for Republican U.S. Senate candidate Nella Domenici, who is challenging incumbent far-left Democrat Sen. Martin Heinrich. Lummis highlighted Domenici’s surprising rise in the polls, showing her within single digits of Heinrich, with 21% of voters still undecided. Domenici, daughter of former New Mexico U.S. Sen. Pete Domenici, has made waves by out-raising Heinrich in her first quarter, positioning New Mexico’s Senate race as a potential flip for Republicans.

Lummis emphasized Domenici’s dedication to core Republican issues, including securing borders, promoting economic stability, and boosting domestic energy production. “Nella has my full support, and she’s on the brink of taking the lead in a race Democrats never thought they would have to fight,” Lummis wrote. She called for grassroots mobilization to sustain Domenici’s momentum, urging donors to invest in what could be a pivotal contest for control of the U.S. Senate.

Meanwhile, in New Mexico’s Second Congressional District, Republican candidate Yvette Herrell is gaining ground in a tightly contested race against incumbent far-left Democrat Rep. Gabe Vasquez. Herrell’s campaign released polling numbers from The Tarrance Group showing her leading Vasquez 48% to 46%, with a 4.9% margin of error. Herrell attributed her lead to voters’ growing dissatisfaction with the Biden administration’s policies and Vasquez’s alignment  with a “radical agenda.”

Herrell’s message to supporters emphasized the need to press on during this crucial phase of the campaign. “Momentum is on our side, but this is FAR from mission accomplished,” Herrell stated, warning that the Democrats would likely ramp up attacks as her lead grows. Herrell has positioned herself as a staunch opponent of what she describes as Vasquez’s “open borders” policies and his opposition to anti-inflationary measures.

Both Domenici and Herrell have capitalized on dissatisfaction with the current administration and incumbents like Heinrich and Vasquez. They’ve drawn attention to policies they claim are out of touch with New Mexicans’ priorities, including border security and economic management. With both races heating up, Republicans see a path to flipping key seats and gaining an edge in a state once considered solidly blue.

As these campaigns head into the final stretch, the eyes of the nation are on New Mexico, where Republicans believe they can turn a historically Democrat state into a battleground in the 2024 election.

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MLG trying to build eco-left workforce amid her job-killing Green New Deal

15 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

A push for eco-left energy sources and misguided infrastructure investments by state and federal governments have driven up construction costs and placed unnecessary strain on the workforce, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham claimed in an executive order on Monday.

These rising costs, compounded by a push for “climate-ready” construction, forced through by the signing of her Green New Deal (2019’s Energy Transition Act), are being used as justification for reshaping the workforce to cater to this eco-left agenda, which prioritizes building up the so-called renewable energy sector and infrastructure aimed at supposedly mitigating the effects of “climate change,” according to the governor.

In the order, Lujan Grisham directed nearly a dozen state agencies to collaborate on a plan for workforce development and training, including education programs targeting K-12 students to groom them for careers in eco-left-driven industries.

By 2026, Lujan Grisham pledged the state would have 2,000 additional workers trained in these “climate-ready” professions despite no clear definition of what these jobs entail.

Sarita Nair, Cabinet Secretary for the Department of Workforce Solutions, echoed the governor’s rhetoric in an email, stating that the state’s infrastructure must be updated to endure so-called “extreme” weather conditions, including heat, drought, and flooding.

At the end of 2022, the state claimed to have 12,686 jobs in the “clean energy” sector. Companies like Maxeon and the communist Chinese Ebon Solar have made high-profile announcements to expand operations in New Mexico, but questions remain about the long-term viability of these ventures and their impact on local communities.

Interestingly, Nair admitted in the same email that there’s no official definition from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for these “climate-ready jobs.” Speculation suggests they could range from wildland firefighters to electric vehicle charging station installers, leaving significant ambiguity about the true scope of this eco-left workforce.

Ladona Clayton, executive director of the Ogallala Land and Water Conservancy, emphasized the need to focus on water supply and infrastructure, calling it the state’s most pressing issue. “The job is so big now, with the water crisis, we have to get the right people employed,” Clayton said, pushing for aggressive recruitment efforts.

Clayton argued that water should be the top priority for New Mexico’s workforce, declaring, “That’s the workforce that has to sustain the state.”

The governor’s latest executive order comes on the heels of a broader statewide workforce plan that identified construction, the energy transition, and so-called “climate resilience” as key areas of focus for the future.

According to Nair, Workforce Solutions is working with local development boards, tribal communities, and prison reentry programs to broaden access to these eco-left-driven job programs. Some federal grants have emphasized equitable access to these jobs, particularly for workers displaced by the transition from fossil fuels, though this transition has already cost many their livelihoods.

The closure of the San Juan Generating Station in 2022, which was demolished earlier this year, resulted in the loss of 450 jobs in Farmington, many of them belonging to members of the Navajo Nation. These traditional energy workers now face an uncertain future as the state continues its pivot toward renewables.

A 2020 study on workforce development acknowledged the potential for new opportunities in the post-pandemic “clean energy” sector but warned of major drawbacks. “It is far from given that these jobs will replace those lost from the transition away from fossil fuels,” the report noted, cautioning that the eco-left industry lacks diversity and may not equitably fill these new roles with local workers unless serious policy changes are made.

Sen. Pat Woods, R-Broadview, pointed out the irony of this shift, noting that much of the funding for infrastructure projects comes from oil and gas revenues. “I am glad the Governor is putting her agencies to work,” Woods said, but he expressed doubt about whether these programs would actually benefit New Mexican workers in the long run.

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Vasquez campaign blows a gasket as Elon Musk’s PAC invests in NM CD-2

20 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

An Elon Musk-linked PAC called America PAC is targeting vulnerable Democrats, as reported by Business Insider.

The Tesla and X owner is spending “$86,997 in New Mexico’s 2nd district, where Democratic Rep. Gabe Vasquez faces former Republican Rep. Yvette Herrell,” the outlet reported. 

Federal Election Commission (FEC) documents show the entity is spending $2.1 million in the 14 most competitive U.S. House races. 

“There’s likely to be more where that came from. Punchbowl News reported on Monday that the PAC has set aside $10 million for “voter turnout” in House races around the country,” per Insider.

Following the news, Vasquez’s campaign sent out a panic-stricken email, claiming the PAC, which reports openly to the FEC, is a “dark money” group, claiming, “Republican dark money is FLOODING into NM-02 right now. MAGA extremists will stop at nothing to elect Yvette Herrell, establish their anti-choice MAGA agenda and relentlessly attack Gabe Vasquez.”

“Elon Musk’s America PAC has already spent over $55 MILLION to support Donald Trump, and now? They’re investing an ADDITIONAL $2.1 million to support MAGA extremists in competitive House races like Gabe’s,” his campaign continued.

The email concluded, “Gabe is a threat to their extremist anti-democratic agenda and that’s why their dark money is ENDLESSLY flooding our district,” despite Democrats installing their presidential nominee, Kamala Harris, without a single vote from the American people. 

It is unclear what the Democrats’ campaign believes is “extreme” about Herrell, who has a commonsense platform that includes protecting the border, fighting crime, and solving the inflation crisis created by Vasquez, Biden, and Harris. 

On the other hand, Vasquez believes in open borders, voted for illegal aliens to vote, and voted against anti-inflationary bills, as well as having a rap sheet of his own for his crimes. 

Vasquez, who squeaked out the smallest of wins in 2022, faces fierce competition from Herrell, a former state lawmaker and congresswoman for the Second District. 

Vasquez campaign blows a gasket as Elon Musk’s PAC invests in NM CD-2 Read More »

Lujan Grisham flips out after TX Gov. Abbott’s razor wire on NM border

26 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has expressed frustration in response to Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s ongoing efforts to fortify the Texas border with New Mexico, but Abbott’s actions reflect his firm commitment to securing his state from illegal immigration—something that Lujan Grisham has failed to address in the Land of Enchantment.

Gov. Abbott’s latest move involved deploying the Texas National Guard to install additional razor wire and fencing along the Rio Grande, particularly in the El Paso area. This action comes as part of his broader initiative to curb illegal crossings into Texas, a significant issue. 

Abbott has emphasized that Texas cannot sit idly by while the federal government struggles to address the ongoing border crisis. “Texas is fighting back. We are tripling our razor wire border barriers to deny illegal entry into our state and our country,” Abbott tweeted, underscoring his proactive stance on border security.

While Governor Lujan Grisham criticized the move, suggesting Abbott is treating Texas as if it were its own country (which it actually used to be) and ignoring the interconnectedness between states, particularly in regions like the oil-rich Permian Basin, her stance contrasts starkly with Abbott’s. 

“Gov. Abbott seems to be pushing to make Texas its own country without regard for his neighbors or the fact that Texas is already part of a great nation—the United States,” she claimed.

She has remained the only border-state governor to reject federal assistance aimed at alleviating the migrant influx, positioning her as an outlier among her peers when it comes to border management. This has left New Mexico more exposed to the fallout from border security lapses, particularly in areas like Sunland Park, where smuggling activities have been rampant.

Abbott and his supporters see these actions as essential in the absence of meaningful federal reform. Texas has seen firsthand the consequences of a porous border, and Abbott’s efforts reflect a commitment to filling the security gaps that, in his view, the Biden administration has neglected.

Lujan Grisham’s refusal to take similar actions or cooperate with Texas on border security continues to raise questions, especially as Texas remains vigilant in protecting its residents. While Abbott is taking tangible steps to safeguard his state, Lujan Grisham’s criticism highlights the stark difference in leadership approaches between the two border governors.

Lujan Grisham flips out after TX Gov. Abbott’s razor wire on NM border Read More »

‘Carjackings every 2.5 days!’ NRCC rips Vasquez for soft-on-crime policies

11 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) has launched a new television advertisement targeting far-left Democrat Gabe Vasquez in New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District (NM-02). 

The ad, which will be aired in both English and Spanish, focuses on rising crime rates in New Mexico, specifically carjackings, and accuses Vasquez of being lenient on criminals and supportive of efforts to defund the police.

According to the NRCC, the ad, titled “Carjackings,” says that carjackings in New Mexico have become increasingly frequent, with one occurring every two and a half days. The ad paints a picture of a state grappling with aggressive crime and links this surge to what it calls Vasquez’s soft stance on criminal justice. 

In particular, the advertisement criticizes Vasquez for attempting to reduce punishments for carjackings and even attempting to eliminate mandatory minimum sentences for murder.

The ad’s message ties these allegations to broader criticisms of Vasquez’s stance on policing, framing him as a “radical” who wants to defund the police. A clip in the ad claims that Vasquez is not just advocating for the defunding of law enforcement but for dismantling the broader criminal justice system. The script closes with the statement, “Gabe Vasquez. Easy on criminals. Hard on the police.”

This advertisement is part of a larger, pre-planned advertising campaign by the NRCC, which has made a significant investment in NM-02 ahead of the upcoming election. 

The NRCC’s decision to focus its efforts in this district reflects its strategic interest in challenging the Democratic presence in the area. The ad is being disseminated across multiple platforms to reach both English and Spanish-speaking voters.

WATCH:

‘Carjackings every 2.5 days!’ NRCC rips Vasquez for soft-on-crime policies Read More »

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

12 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Mexico is the problem — and Texas amps up the pressure Read More »

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

20 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tito Jackson of the Jackson 5 passes away traveling from NM

Leave a Comment / New Mexico, News / By

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Another MLG Cabinet official quits administration

3 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

30 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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