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Despite teacher pay hike, vacancy rates rising: Report

21 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Teacher vacancies in New Mexico are increasing, reaching 751 unfilled positions this year compared to 690 in 2022, as highlighted in an annual report by New Mexico State University’s Southwest Outreach Academic Research Evaluation and Policy Center. This represents a nine percent rise from the previous year but is notably lower than the 2021 report, which documented over 1,000 empty teacher positions in the state, according to the Santa Fe New Mexican.

This comes despite the state Legislature unanimously passing a bill giving all school employees a seven percent raise and boosting minimum salaries for public school teachers.

Despite substantial legislative investments totaling hundreds of millions of dollars, retaining teachers remains a challenge, as discussed in a recent meeting of the Legislative Finance Committee. Education officials plan to request continued or increased funding for teacher preparation programs, emphasizing the importance of equipping teachers with the necessary skills.

Mary Parr-Sánchez, president of the New Mexico branch of the National Education Association, a far-left teachers union, claimed there needs to be a multifaceted solution involving policy changes and higher wages to address the challenges faced by educators. She said that professionals in the classroom still feel the strain, akin to the challenges during and after the pandemic.

The 2023 report indicates noticeable teacher vacancies, particularly in elementary and special education, as well as math and science classes. Additionally, the state is lacking 482 educational assistants, despite a recent law increasing minimum educational assistant salaries to $25,000.

While the report outlines various needs, including counselors, paraprofessionals, speech-language pathologists, and behavior support providers, it also notes a positive trend. More aspiring teachers are completing preparation programs, with 1,158 graduates in 2023, marking an increase of 131 over 2022.

New Mexico’s education system ranks 51st behind all other states and the District of Columbia.

Lujan Grisham again defies court order, reissues unconstitutional gun ban

60 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has again extended her anti-gun executive orders, introducing a renewed order that includes updated measures to curb access to firearms. Her past two executive orders were stricken down by a Joe Biden-appointed judge, forcing her to rewrite them again and release them via her New Mexico Department of Health Secretary Patrick Allen.

The renewed order now mandates the Department of Public Safety to organize gun buy-backs. Within the next 30 days, buy-back events will be held in Albuquerque, Española, and Las Cruces to attempt to further disarm the populous.

Governor Lujan Grisham claimed firearms threaten the state, citing a recent incident where two guns were found in the possession of students at an Albuquerque high school. While no injuries occurred, the incident underscored the psychological impact on children. 

The previous version of the public health order had included additional measures, such as attempting to suspend gun-carry rights in specific areas, a move that a federal judge temporarily halted. Despite that, she reissued it in Allen’s order.

“No person, other than a law enforcement officer or licensed security officer, or active duty military personnel shall possess a firearm, as defined in NMSA 1978, Section 30-7-4.1, either openly or concealed, in public parks or playgrounds within the City of Albuquerque or Bernalillo County, except in the City of Albuquerque’s Shooting Range Park and areas designated as a state park within the state parks system and owned or managed by the New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department State Parks Division, or the State Land Office,” read the new order.

“This Order supersedes any previous Order to the extent it is in conflict and shall take effect on October 6, 2023, and remain in effect for the duration of the public health emergencies declared in Executive Orders 2023-130 and 2023-132 and any subsequent renewals of those public health emergency declarations, unless otherwise rescinded,” it included.

It also involved the distribution of trigger locks, reading, “Trigger locks shall be made available free of charge to all firearm owners; provided that each firearm owner shall only be entitled to one free trigger lock. Firearm owners wishing to obtain a free trigger lock should visit www.safestoragenm.org.”

Interestingly, the decree concluded, “Nothing in this Order shall be construed to contradict or evade any court orders temporarily enjoining provisions in previous public health emergency orders that remain in this Order. Any court order regarding such provisions shall apply to the same provisions found herein,” an apparent attempt to minimize liability from the new unconstitutional edict that violates the drudge’s previous court order.

Lujan Grisham continues to face impeachment calls from 31 legislators, being led by Reps. Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) and John Block (R-Alamogordo), who have begun a certification petition process for an extraordinary impeachment session. 

Judge delivers bad news to Gov. Lujan Grisham over executive order

Dems’ heavily gerrymandered maps upheld in court

27 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

A Friday decision by Ninth Judicial District Judge Fred T. Van Soelen addressed allegations that Democratic lawmakers in New Mexico intentionally diluted Republican voting power in the state’s second congressional district via gerrymandering. The ruling ruled in favor of the Democrats’ heavily partisan gerrymandered map.

Judge Van Soelen’s 14-page decision, while acknowledging that Democrats had effectively diluted the votes of their opponents, concluded that the evidence presented by the Republican plaintiffs fell short of demonstrating the Democrats’ success in entrenching their party in the second congressional district. The judge specifically noted that the efforts did not reach the threshold of an “egregious gerrymander.”

The ruling underscored the court’s assessment that although Democrats had achieved a notable dilution of Republican votes, the evidence did not establish a level of success in entrenching Democratic dominance in the district. This decision comes amid ongoing debates and legal challenges surrounding redistricting processes and allegations of partisan gerrymandering in various jurisdictions across the country.

In his ruling, Judge Van Soelen emphasized the importance of evidence in proving claims of gerrymandering, stating that the Republican plaintiffs did not present sufficient evidence to support their argument that the redrawing of the electoral map aimed at entrenching the Democratic Party in the second congressional district.

Despite evidence presented in court, including text messages to nonprofits by Democrat legislators bragging about the gerrymander, the judge ruled in favor of the leftist gerrymandered map.

NM treasurer found guilty of violating state campaign reporting laws

7 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Democrat New Mexico Treasurer Laura Montoya has been found guilty of violating the state’s Campaign Reporting Act by the state Ethics Commission. The Democrat was found to have misreported campaign contributions. The case, Montoya vs. Tim Eichenberg, the former state treasurer, a Democrat, revealed a significant breach in campaign finance transparency.

The commission, presided over by hearing officer Alan Torgerson, reached its decision on September 29. Central to the case was a $10,000 straw donor contribution allegedly made by Adelante Sandoval, a political committee, as reported by Montoya. However, it has been disclosed that the funds actually originated from property developer Gary Plante. During the hearing, both Montoya and other witnesses conveniently could not remember key details relating to the campaign cash.

Judge Torgerson found it “highly unusual that the memories of the witnesses have faded so completely that they are virtually unable to recall anything substantive about the September 21, 2021, afternoon in question, or the fact that a large, apparently unexpected, contribution appeared immediately after a campaign event in Corrales and yet they have no memory of the circumstances or details of that contributions.”

In an additional layer of complexity, two companies under Plante’s management channeled the $10,000 in campaign funding. The New Mexico Ethics Commission, in its report, underscored the discrepancy between the reported source and the actual contributor.

The Commission’s executive director, Jeremy Farris, emphasized the importance of transparency in electoral funding. He noted that while individuals have the right to support candidates financially, the public also has a corresponding right to be informed about the sources of such contributions. 

Farris explicitly condemned straw donor contributions, such as the one exposed in this case, as undermining the transparency essential for fair elections.

Highlighting the broader implications, Farris stated, “Straw donor contributions, like those uncovered in this administrative case, undermine transparency in our elections. If wealthy individuals want to give thousands of dollars to candidates for office, that’s their right; but they can’t do it in secret.”

Farris added, “New Mexicans also have a right to know who is spending money to influence their votes. The State Ethics Commission works to ensure they do.”

“We disagree with the judge’s ruling,” said Montoya’s attorney, Kenneth Stalter. “I don’t think the evidence supports it, so we’re looking at the options for appeal.”

Montoya was given a slap on the wrist with a meager fine of $1,000.

New info reveals Dem state treasurer candidate’s alleged abusive behavior

Riley Gaines slapped with huge bill for unsolicited security force at UNM speech

15 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Activist and former University of Kentucky NCAA swimming athlete Riley Gaines spoke at the University of New Mexico on Wednesday at a talk put on by Turning Point USA. Gaines garnered notoriety for having to share a title with Lia Thomas, a biological man claiming to be transgender woman.

At the UNM event, Gaines claims she was billed $10,000 for police presence she did not request at the event.

She wrote that “they stationed 45 police officers with me & hit me with a 10k security charge.”

She added, “All for saying men are men and women are women… such a radical position to take. Onward!”

State Sen. Gregg Schmedes (R-Tijeras) wrote in response, “Ridiculous. Thank you for coming to speak and standing for truth.”

“I’m so embarrassed as a New Mexican right now. I’m sorry Riley. I hope someone makes this right,” one commenter wrote, tagging Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, a Democrat.

Others noted how the crowd protesting Gaines’ speech was “embarrassing.”

At a 2022 event with conservative speaker Tomi Lahren at UNM, a violent Antifa mob interrupted the event and shut down the scheduled speech. 

Violent Antifa ‘terrorist’ mob storms Tomi Lahren’s UNM event

Vasquez tops another ranking for most vulnerable U.S. House Dems in 2024

7 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Far-left U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-CD2) was recently named on another list as one of the most vulnerable representatives in 2024 — this time ranking the third-most vulnerable Democrat.

Of the top ten most vulnerable incumbents in the U.S. House, Vasquez hit the National Journal’s top 10 most likely to lose in the next election.

In May, Roll Call listed Vasquez alongside Colorado’s Rep. Yadira Caraveo and Washington’s Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Pérez as the most vulnerable Democrats in the House during the 2024 election.

The National Republican Congressional Committee listed Vasquez as a targeted seat and has consistently hit him on playing politics with the border, his stances on cutting New Mexico energy jobs, and siding with criminals over the police. 

A recent poll commissioned by KOB 4 that was released in mid-September showed Vasquez trailing GOP former Congresswoman Yvette Herrell, affirming how vulnerable he is in the next election cycle.

Vasquez has been recently trying to beef up his more “moderate” bona fides, such as condemning Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s unconstitutional gun ban executive order, but he has consistently voted along party lines on almost all legislation. 

Herrell was narrowly ousted in 2022 by around 1,500 votes after far-left Democrats in the state Legislature gerrymandered the district from favoring Republicans by 14 points to now favoring Democrats by four points. The franken-map drawn by the Democrats chops up communities of interest, such as Hobbs, Roswell, and Albuquerque, to shift political power. It is currently in litigation, and a judge is set to rule on the legality of the map in the coming days. 

Herrell beating Vasquez in new CD-2 poll

Lujan Grisham’s NM Enviro Dept. launches newest attack on oil and gas

14 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In a move that has raised eyebrows and sparked criticism, the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) is intensifying its efforts to “crack down” on oil and natural gas violations in the Permian and San Juan Basins over the next six months. While the NMED frames this initiative as a robust compliance assurance measure using space-based, aerial, and on-the-ground monitoring, detractors are expressing concerns about the potential consequences.

NMED Cabinet Secretary James Kenney bragged about “record fines levied and collected against the oil and natural gas industry,” saying despite that, “many operators are not taking compliance with federal and state air quality rules and permits seriously.” 

“It’s clear Governor Lujan Grisham’s Environment Department is more concerned with getting money than getting things right,” said Larry Behrens, Communications Director for Power The Future. “These moves will do nothing but raise prices further, and it’s despicable for Secretary Kenney to brag about record fines while he takes in massive raises in his own salary. New Mexico’s energy industry already provides billions to Santa Fe, but it’s clear the Lujan Grisham administration has an insatiable appetite for more money.”

Over the coming months, NMED plans to collect compliance data through various monitoring methods, potentially referring enforcement matters to federal entities such as the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This has fueled concerns about the department’s reliance on external agencies, possibly diverting resources from state-level responsibilities.

Director of Compliance and Enforcement, Bruce Baizel, defended the approach, stating, “Using innovative technologies to monitor oil and natural gas operations along with more conventional boots on the ground will prove effective in holding polluters accountable.”

One of the contentious aspects of the NMED’s strategy is its potential impact on the oil and gas industry in New Mexico. While the department asserts that this crackdown is necessary due to rising ozone levels and poor compliance rates, opponents fear that it might stifle industry efforts to improve environmental practices.

The directive also emphasizes the monitoring of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Nitrogen Oxides (NOX), crucial components in the formation of ground-level ozone. However, critics question whether the NMED’s approach considers the economic implications and potential job losses that could result from stringent enforcement.

As the NMED moves forward with its aggressive enforcement strategy, the debate over eco-leftist policies that will kill the state’s primary source of income intensifies. 

New Mexicans are paying over 58 percent more for gasoline than when Governor Lujan Grisham took office, according to Power The Future.

Judge delivers bad news to Gov. Lujan Grisham over executive order

79 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

On Tuesday, a federal judge, David Herrera Urias, issued a temporary restraining order, blocking Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s revised public health order that prohibited firearms in parks, playgrounds, and other public places where children play in Albuquerque and across Bernalillo County — another blow to the governor. 

The extension of the temporary restraining order comes as Judge Urias considers a request for an injunction on the revised order. He has committed to making a decision on this matter by October 11.

The legal action follows at least five lawsuits filed in U.S. District Court, with plaintiffs asserting that the governor’s initial order, which banned carrying open or concealed firearms in public spaces in New Mexico’s most populous city and county, infringes on Second Amendment rights. The lawsuits primarily seek court orders to prevent the state from enforcing the gun ban.

The National Association for Gun Rights (NAGR), one of the complainants, swiftly filed a lawsuit within 24 hours of the governor issuing the public health order. Dudley Brown, president of the Colorado-based organization, emphasized the uniqueness of New Mexico’s situation, stating, “This is the most egregious ban ever produced in modern America.”

While Judge Urias evaluates the legal aspects of the firearms ban, the political landscape surrounding Governor Lujan Grisham is becoming increasingly tumultuous. Representatives Lord and Block have initiated calls for the governor’s impeachment, citing concerns over her handling of public health orders and potential violations of constitutional rights.

The federal judge’s decision to extend the temporary restraining order adds another layer to the ongoing legal battle over gun regulations. The outcome, expected by October 11, will have significant implications not only for Governor Lujan Grisham’s public health measures but also for the broader debate on Second Amendment rights in the state.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the governor faces mounting pressure on the political front, with calls for impeachment intensifying. State Reps. Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) and John Block (R-Alamogordo) continue to pursue impeachment proceedings against the governor over her unconstitutional order and her claims that no law or oath is “absolute.”

Democrat NM lawmaker to resign for job in another state

8 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In a shocking Monday announcement, University of Colorado Boulder Chancellor Philip DiStefano revealed that New Mexico state Sen. Benny Shendo, Jr. (D-Jemez Pueblo) was appointed Associate Vice Chancellor for Native American Affairs at CU Boulder. He will relinquish the state Senate seat by the spring of 2024.

A graduate of the University, Shendo brings his experience as a New Mexico state senator and his former high positions, such as tribal administrator and lieutenant governor for the Pueblo of Jemez.

Portrait of New Mexico state Sen. Benny Shendo, Jr.

A commitment to Native American affairs has marked Shendo’s professional journey, evident in his past roles at the University of New Mexico and as part of the dean of students office at Stanford University. His multifaceted background positions him uniquely for his new role, which will see him contributing to the Office of Government and Community Engagement.

In his capacity as Associate Vice Chancellor, Shendo will play a key role in fostering connections with tribal governments and communities across Colorado. His duties extend beyond the campus, involving collaboration with state and federal entities on matters pertaining to tribal affairs and higher education.

Shendo stated in a news release, “I cannot wait to get started in this new role at CU Boulder to strengthen our relationships with the tribes of Colorado and those historically connected to Colorado and to build a strong, supportive Native American community on campus for our students, faculty, and staff.”

Shendo is poised to assume his full-time position at CU Boulder on March 1, a move that necessitates his departure from the state senate. His decision to transition into this role underlines his dedication to advancing Native American initiatives within the realm of higher education.

Chancellor DiStefano highlighted Shendo’s appointment, saying in a news release, “We are delighted to welcome Benny Shendo back to the CU Boulder community,” adding, “His wealth of experience and commitment to Native American affairs will undoubtedly contribute to the university’s ongoing efforts to create an inclusive and culturally rich environment.”

Shendo was first elected in 2012 and currently chairs the powerful Senate Tax, Business & Transportation Committee.

New Mexico InDepth reported, “‘We’re trying to work out the details’ of the University of Colorado job, Shendo said, mentioning there was a possibility he could work from his home in New Mexico.”

Gov. Lujan Grisham tests positive for COVID-19 for third time

26 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In an unexpected turn of events, the Office of Democrat Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham confirmed Monday in a press release that the governor has tested positive for COVID-19. The statement noted that Governor Lujan Grisham is currently “experiencing some minimal symptoms.”

The Governor’s office told the public that she is in good spirits despite the mild symptoms.

For the remainder of the week, Governor Lujan Grisham will be carrying out her duties remotely.

The press release did not provide specific details about where or how the governor may have contracted the virus. 

Governor Lujan Grisham’s positive test result also raises questions about potential impacts on the state’s governance, though the remote work arrangement is designed to ensure continuity in decision-making processes.

Lujan Grisham previously tested positive for the virus in August of 2022 and in November of 2022.

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