Politics

Keller regime allegedly cheated child care providers out of COVID aid: OSI

9 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) released a 24-page report on January 2, highlighting alleged misuse of $287,972.77 in federal COVID-19 Child Care Stabilization Grant funds by 27 employees under Mayor Tim Keller’s administration. These funds were intended for child care providers but were reportedly used to distribute bonuses to city employees, including high-ranking personnel.

The investigation was prompted by an anonymous tip about the alleged improper use of the grant. According to the report, the funds were diverted to compensate employees not directly involved in child care services. This action appears to violate the grant’s stipulations, which explicitly restrict use to personnel associated with licensed child care facilities or services. “The evidence obtained by the OIG substantiates that employees, including high-ranking department personnel, received several premium pay disbursements in violation of allowable personnel costs,” states the report.

Attorney John Day noted the potential for broader consequences, emphasizing, “The real problem for the city is whether the Department of Justice or U.S. government will look at this,” citing similar federal investigations into misused pandemic relief funds. Day added, “If the Department of Justice determines that money was misused, it could be a significant problem.”

The controversy centers on whether the city’s interpretation of “premium pay” under the grant’s guidelines was appropriate. Associate Chief Administrative Officer Carla Martinez defended the payments, stating, “These were employees who kept childcare centers open during the COVID crisis. These were not bonuses and were not inappropriate.” Martinez argued the funds were used for “necessary overtime funding for critical early childhood caregiver programs and management.”

City Council President Dan Lewis, however, referred the investigation to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, alleging federal crimes. “These funds, approved by the Council, were intended exclusively for early childhood programs,” Lewis said. “However, they appear to have been unlawfully redirected as cash bonuses for the Mayor’s staff.”

Mayor Tim Keller’s spokesperson, Alex Bukoski, dismissed Lewis’ accusations as politically motivated, calling them “a grossly inaccurate overreaction” and part of a series of “bitter rants” against Keller’s administration. The OIG report also notes discrepancies in the grant applications, including electronic signatures of employees who were either unaware or no longer employed at the time of submission. These irregularities raise further questions about the oversight and administration of the funds.

Adding to the complexity, the Accountability in Government Oversight Committee—tasked with reviewing the OIG’s findings—declined to approve the report, citing jurisdictional concerns. By a unanimous 5-0 vote, the committee stated the OIG lacked sufficient authority under the Inspector General Ordinance to investigate some allegations.

The OIG’s recommendations include reviewing the disbursements, potentially reallocating misused funds to the city’s General Fund, and repaying the granting authority. Additionally, they suggest implementing clear policies to define “one-time premium pay” and ensuring authorized personnel handle future grant applications. As scrutiny over the issue intensifies, the matter remains unresolved, leaving questions about accountability and adherence to federal guidelines.

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Longtime GOP state lawmaker gets new role on powerful regulatory board

11 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Republican former state Sen. Greg Nibert, a longtime state lawmaker, has been appointed to the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC) for a two-year term starting January 1, 2025. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham announced the appointment, which follows the conclusion of Commissioner James Ellison’s term on December 31, 2024.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Nibert stated, “I am honored to be nominated to the Public Regulation Commission….I look forward to securing New Mexico’s energy future for generations to come.”

Nibert’s selection came after a competitive process involving over 30 candidates. The Public Regulation Commission Nominating Committee, established under legislation signed by the governor in 2020, evaluated and recommended candidates. This seven-member committee plays a pivotal role in ensuring qualified individuals are selected for the PRC. It will continue to convene as needed to fill future vacancies.

Sen. Greg Nibert’s official photograph.

As a PRC commissioner, Nibert will earn an annual salary of $190,000. This position places him at the forefront of key regulatory decisions impacting utilities and energy across the state.

Nibert brings extensive experience to the role. He has been a partner at Hinkle Shanor LLP since 1987, specializing in real property, energy, and administrative law. His legal expertise has contributed to advancing major energy and natural resource projects throughout New Mexico.

In addition to his legal career, Nibert has a notable history of public service. He has served in both the New Mexico Senate and House of Representatives, earning recognition for his legislative accomplishments. He left the House as the minority whip before being appointed to the state Senate. His leadership and commitment to the state’s progress have been widely acknowledged.

With his appointment to the PRC, Nibert is poised to play a significant role in shaping New Mexico’s energy policies. His focus on meeting renewable energy targets aligns with the state’s long-term vision for sustainability and growth.

“This is a responsibility I take very seriously,” Nibert added.

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NM’s influence in the 2024 elections: How the Land of Enchantment ranked

4 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In the wake of the critical 2024 elections, a recent WalletHub study sheds light on voter power across the nation. While some states emerge as key battlegrounds, others hold less sway in determining the outcome of presidential and Senate races. For New Mexico, the data reveals a mixed but intriguing picture of voter influence.

Senate Power Rankings: New Mexico in the Top 10

In the Senate rankings, New Mexico ranks 10th with a Voter Power Score of 51.63. This places the state firmly in the upper echelon of influence among the 33 ranked states. Vermont, Wyoming, and North Dakota take the top three spots, highlighting the outsized impact smaller states often enjoy due to equal Senate representation.

New Mexico’s relatively high ranking in Senate influence stems from its smaller population relative to its two Senate seats. While larger states like California (ranked 33rd) and Texas (32nd) see their individual voters’ impact diluted, New Mexico’s voters carry significantly more weight per capita. This dynamic underscores the importance of New Mexico’s participation in shaping the composition of the Senate, where every vote could determine critical policy decisions in the coming years.

Presidential Rankings: A Swing but Less Powerful State

In the presidential election rankings, New Mexico’s Voter Power Score is 65.01, placing it 14th among the 49 ranked states and Washington, D.C. While this score highlights a moderate level of influence, it’s worth noting that the top-ranking states, such as Nevada (201.78) and North Carolina (186.29), are all considered fiercely contested battlegrounds.

New Mexico’s middle-ground position reflects its historical voting patterns. Although the state has swung between parties in past elections, recent trends show it leaning Democratic. As a result, New Mexico’s role in deciding presidential outcomes has lessened compared to pivotal swing states like Georgia and Wisconsin. However, its influence still surpasses larger, more predictable states like New York (ranked 33rd) and California (42nd).

The Broader Context: Why Voter Power Matters

The WalletHub study highlights disparities in voter influence stemming from the structure of the Electoral College and Senate representation. For example, while Senate races afford smaller states like New Mexico a greater say, the presidential election’s winner-takes-all system in most states diminishes the influence of those not in highly competitive regions. Nonetheless, New Mexico’s relatively strong performance in both rankings underscores the importance of voter turnout and civic engagement in the state.

Methodology

WalletHub calculated Voter Power Scores based on factors such as population size, number of electors, and win probabilities. The study incorporated data from the U.S. Census Bureau, YouGov, and other sources.

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$10 billion reasons NM can’t afford to abandon oil and gas

9 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

New Mexico’s energy landscape is deeply intertwined with its economic stability and political priorities. The state’s renewable energy sector has grown in recent years, but oil and gas remain the cornerstone of its prosperity, providing unparalleled economic benefits and reliable energy for both the state and the nation. Despite efforts to transition to renewable energy, significant concerns exist about the long-term viability and fairness of these alternatives, particularly when compared to the proven success of oil and gas.

New Mexico is a leading oil and gas producer, thanks to its location within the resource-rich Permian Basin. In 2023 alone, the state’s oil and gas industry generated over $10 billion in revenues, enabling New Mexico to fund schools, healthcare, infrastructure, and public safety.

According to the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association, these revenues accounted for more than 40% of the state’s budget. Unlike renewables, the oil and gas industry pays significant excise taxes, royalties, and other fees to the state, ensuring a steady revenue stream and providing well-paying jobs to thousands of New Mexicans. The economic benefits of oil and gas are unmatched, supporting virtually every facet of the state’s government and public services.

In contrast, renewable energy—especially wind and solar—has faced criticism for its dependency on heavy government subsidies. According to a 2022 report from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), federal and state subsidies for wind and solar projects in New Mexico have amounted to hundreds of millions of dollars annually. Without these subsidies, many renewable projects would struggle to remain financially viable.

Additionally, wind and solar farms do not pay excise taxes comparable to those imposed on oil and gas production, creating a significant disparity. This is particularly troubling given that much of the renewable energy generated in New Mexico is exported to states like California and Arizona, leaving New Mexicans to bear the environmental costs without receiving proportional economic benefits.

Renewable energy projects also raise environmental concerns. Studies, such as a 2020 report published in the journal Nature Sustainability, highlight the significant land use associated with wind and solar farms, which often disrupt local ecosystems. Furthermore, the disposal of solar panels and wind turbine blades poses long-term environmental challenges, as these materials are difficult to recycle. The intermittent nature of wind and solar power requires backup systems, often relying on natural gas, to maintain grid reliability, undermining claims that renewables can fully replace fossil fuels.

Many New Mexicans remain steadfast in their support for the oil and gas industry. Beyond its economic contributions, oil and gas provide a reliable energy source that underpins the state’s infrastructure. Proponents argue that instead of shifting prematurely to renewables, New Mexico should focus on making its oil and gas operations more environmentally sustainable. Measures like the Methane Waste Prevention Act demonstrate that it is possible to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship without abandoning a proven industry.

Ultimately, New Mexico’s energy future must prioritize what works: oil and gas, supplemented by nuclear energy for sustainable and reliable power generation. Renewables, while a component of the energy mix, cannot compete with the economic and practical advantages of these established energy sources. By focusing on oil, gas, and nuclear power, New Mexico can secure its economic prosperity and maintain its role as an energy leader for decades to come.

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NY Times skewers Lujan Grisham for her epic failures on stopping crime

31 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Far-left Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s tenure has become a political lightning rod, sparking criticism from both Republicans and members of her own Democratic Party. As reported by The New York Times, the state faces severe challenges, including a violent crime rate double the national average and a homelessness crisis spiraling out of control. Critics argue that Lujan Grisham’s leadership has failed to deliver meaningful solutions, instead amplifying the state’s issues and alienating her political allies.

“More violent crime went unsolved in New Mexico in 2023 than in any other state,” according to Times, citing data from the Council of State Governments Justice Center. This alarming statistic highlights the inadequacies of the state’s criminal justice system, which remains overwhelmed by skyrocketing crime rates and insufficient resources. Lujan Grisham’s attempts to address these issues, such as a proposed gun ban in Albuquerque, have only exacerbated tensions. Even New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez, a Democrat, opposed the gun ban, underscoring her growing isolation within her party.

While the report acknowledges that Lujan Grisham is “trying to strike a balance between a liberal and a pragmatic approach,” it bluntly notes that “she hasn’t always succeeded.” Her policies have drawn criticism from progressives like Las Cruces City Councilor Johana Bencomo, who condemned the governor’s approach to crime and homelessness, stating, “We are going back to policies we know do not work.” Meanwhile, Republicans have seized the opportunity to amplify these failures, framing them as emblematic of broader Democrat mismanagement.

The article also reveals the human toll of New Mexico’s unchecked crime crisis. It recounts the harrowing murder of police officer Jonah Hernandez in Las Cruces, killed by a mentally ill individual with a history of violent behavior. 

The incident underscores the inadequacies of the state’s mental health system, which remains in disarray despite the governor’s rhetoric about reform. “More mental health resources” are desperately needed, according to critics, who argue that Lujan Grisham’s solutions are insufficient for the scale of the crisis.

Even Democrat lawmakers are growing frustrated. When Lujan Grisham called a special legislative session to push her crime-related proposals, it ended in less than a day, with lawmakers refusing to back her measures. Undeterred, she has resorted to public town halls to gain grassroots support, but her rhetoric often seems more performative than productive.

“Ms. Lujan Grisham said she had been approached by a man with a machete on the sidewalk outside a business in Albuquerque, even with her security detail present,” the Times reported — an unverified and likely false account by the governor that she has used to garner sympathy. 

As New Mexico struggles under the weight of unsolved crime, rampant homelessness, and systemic failures, Lujan Grisham’s leadership appears to have galvanized her opponents while splintering her support base. The New York Timesarticle paints a damning portrait of a governor whose ambitions and policies are increasingly out of sync with the realities faced by her constituents.

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Is NM’s regulatory environment killing manufacturing jobs?

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New Mexico’s manufacturing sector, while small compared to other states, is home to several significant players, according to a recent ranking by Albuquerque Business First. The list, based on the number of full-time employees, highlights the diversity in New Mexico’s manufacturing landscape, with industries ranging from technology and medical equipment to traditional crafts.

Leading the charge is Intel Corporation, based in Rio Rancho, employing 2,600 full-time workers in New Mexico and contributing to a global workforce of 124,800. Intel, with its $54.2 billion revenue, stands out as a tech giant driving innovation and economic activity in the state.

Second on the list is Vitality Works, headquartered in Albuquerque. This company specializes in manufacturing high-quality health products and employs 300 people locally. Its operations underscore the growing focus on health and wellness manufacturing.

Miller Bonded Inc., ranked third, focuses on mechanical contracting and sheet metal work, employing 156 individuals in New Mexico. Meanwhile, Roses Southwest Papers, a family-run business producing paper products, follows with 128 employees. Santa Fe Marble Inc., known for its stone and travertine products, rounds out the top five, employing 95 workers.

Despite these successes, New Mexico’s manufacturing sector struggles to compete nationally. The state ranks poorly in attracting new manufacturers, a trend some attribute to its regulatory environment. Critics argue that recent far-left legislative measures—ranging from stricter environmental mandates to increasing labor costs—could exacerbate these challenges.

For instance, newly proposed laws to raise corporate taxes and impose stringent energy efficiency standards could deter potential investors. While these initiatives aim to address eco-leftist and social goals, industry leaders warn they may burden businesses already operating on thin margins.

The disparity becomes evident when comparing New Mexico to neighboring states like Texas and Arizona, which have more business-friendly policies and thriving manufacturing sectors. Advocates for reform emphasize the need for balanced regulations that promote sustainability without stifling growth.

Supporting the sector with incentives and streamlined processes may help attract new businesses, sustain existing ones, and ensure a competitive future for manufacturing in the state.

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Violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua expands to NM: Inside its ATM theft ring

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The violent prison gang Tren de Aragua (TdA), originally from Venezuela, has expanded its influence across multiple states, including New Mexico. The gang, notorious for crimes like kidnapping, extortion, and drug trafficking, has been linked to a nationwide ATM theft ring, with incidents reported in Doña Ana County, New Mexico, as well as in Colorado, South Dakota, and other states.

In New Mexico, local law enforcement has been collaborating with federal agencies to address these crimes. Investigations reveal that the TdA network targets financial institutions with sophisticated techniques, such as “jackpotting” ATMs—hacking machines to release large amounts of cash.

Doña Ana County officials reported several suspicious ATM thefts this year believed to be connected to the gang’s operations.

This criminal activity is part of a broader, multi-state effort led by the Department of Homeland Security, FBI, and other agencies to dismantle the gang’s operations. Local authorities in New Mexico have expressed concern over the gang’s ability to exploit vulnerabilities at the border, allowing its members to enter the U.S. illegally.

The Biden administration has faced criticism for the record number of Venezuelan migrants crossing the southern border, some of whom are believed to have ties to TdA. In some communities, they are taking over apartment complexes and areas of towns.

In July, the U.S. Treasury Department classified TdA as a transnational criminal organization, freezing its assets and sanctioning its leaders. New Mexico officials have taken this designation seriously, partnering with state and federal agencies to disrupt the gang’s activities within the state.

Governor Greg Abbott of Texas recently declared TdA a foreign terrorist organization, emphasizing its threat to public safety nationwide. The designation has prompted states like New Mexico to increase vigilance, especially in areas near the border where gang-affiliated migrants may attempt to establish operations.

As law enforcement agencies continue to investigate, the U.S. State Department has offered significant rewards for information leading to the capture of key TdA leaders. These efforts aim to curtail the gang’s violent influence, which spans multiple states, including New Mexico and threatens local communities through its involvement in ATM theft, drug trafficking, and other crimes.

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Victory for NM heritage: Judge demands city restore Santa Fe plaza monument

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A state district judge has ordered the city of Santa Fe to remove the wooden box and shrubbery surrounding the remnants of the Plaza obelisk within 30 days unless the city requests and secures a stay. The ruling, issued Friday by District Judge Mathew Wilson, also directs the city to either rebuild the Soldiers’ Monument within 180 days or consider alternative options, potentially prolonging the contentious debate over the monument’s fate.

The decision, which follows months of deliberation after a trial in the case, is a significant victory for Union Protectíva de Santa Fé, a historic preservation group that sued Santa Fe far-left Democrat Mayor Alan Webber and the city over the monument’s destruction during Columbus Day in 2020.

Wilson’s ruling supports the group’s claims that the obelisk is protected under the state Prehistoric and Historic Preservation Act and that any changes to the monument must adhere to the act’s guidelines. The city’s actions—including a proclamation calling for the obelisk’s removal and the construction of the large protective box—were deemed noncompliant with the act.

In his decision, Wilson stated that obscuring the obelisk violated state laws protecting historic sites. He described the monument as “an integral part of the aesthetic, character, and history of the Plaza.”

Erected in 1868, the Soldiers’ Monument honors Union soldiers from the Civil War. In 2020, Mayor Webber called for the obelisk’s removal, along with other monuments in the area, including a Kit Carson memorial (which was violently attacked) and a statue of Don Diego de Vargas (which was removed in the dead of night and stashed in a city worker’s yard until it was removed to the history museum), amid growing protests by radicalized out-of-state “activists.” Later that year, the monument was toppled during a protest, and the city’s subsequent efforts to address the issue have repeatedly faltered.

Friday’s ruling was met with approval from Union Protectíva members and others advocating for the monument’s restoration. Daniel Ortiz, founder of the Hispanic Anti-Defamation Association, expressed hope that the decision signaled “the end of cancel culture on the Plaza.”

Attorney Kenneth Stalter, who represented Union Protectíva during the trial, called the ruling “a victory for the rule of law and for the preservation of our shared history.”

“The Court’s ruling underscores that government entities must follow established legal processes when altering historic sites,” Stalter said. “The Soldiers’ Monument holds deep cultural and historical value for the Santa Fe community, and today’s judgment ensures that it will once again be visible as a central feature of the Plaza, where it belongs.”

The judge’s decision allows the city to choose from several options regarding the monument’s future.

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Major NM county removes marijuana testing for new employees

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Bernalillo County, encompassing Albuquerque and home to approximately 672,000 residents, has recently amended its Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace Policy. The county commissioners unanimously voted to exclude marijuana—when used legally off-duty for medical or recreational purposes—from its definition of illegal drugs. Consequently, most public employees will no longer undergo pre-employment or random workplace testing for marijuana.

While this policy shift aligns with actions taken in other municipalities such as Atlanta, Cleveland, Philadelphia, and St. Louis, as well as states like California, Connecticut, and New York, it raises significant concerns regarding workplace safety and productivity. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that employees who tested positive for marijuana had 55% more industrial accidents and 85% more injuries compared to those who tested negative.

Furthermore, the absence of reliable testing methods to determine current impairment from marijuana use complicates the enforcement of workplace safety standards. Unlike alcohol, marijuana metabolites can remain in the body for extended periods, making it challenging to assess whether an employee is under the influence during work hours. This issue has been highlighted by workplace safety experts, raising concerns about potential liability for employers.

The decision by Bernalillo County also sets a precedent that may influence other counties in New Mexico. However, it’s important to note that the state’s Cannabis Regulation Act does not prohibit employers from maintaining drug-free workplace policies. Employers retain the right to discipline employees for being impaired by or possessing marijuana on the job, as noted in guidance from the Employers Council.

The implications of similar policy changes in other states are concerning. For instance, in Vermont, a medical marijuana user was terminated from his job after testing positive for cannabis and was subsequently denied unemployment benefits. This case highlights the potential legal and ethical dilemmas employers face when balancing employee rights with workplace safety.

Moreover, the trend of removing marijuana from drug testing panels has been linked to increased instances of employees attempting to subvert drug tests. A report by Quest Diagnostics indicates that workers are cheating on drug tests at the highest rate in more than 30 years, with marijuana being the most commonly detected substance.

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Stansbury fights tears in video after power play blows up in her face

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In a Tuesday video posted to X, a clearly shaken and bitter-sounding far-left Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-CD-1) held back tears, announcing that she had failed to secure a committee leadership role in the House Committee on Natural Resources, losing by default to Rep. Jared Huffman (D-CA) after she quit the race before the vote.

“On Tuesday, Stansbury withdrew from the race, leading to a unanimous vote by the full Democratic caucus in support of Huffman,” the Santa Fe New Mexican reported.

According to Axios, “House Democrats’ Steering and Policy Committee voted to recommend Huffman for the role, according to sources familiar with the matter,” adding, “The choice still has to be approved at House Democrats’ full caucus meeting – though steering picks are rarely rejected in those votes.”

In an X video, Stansbury whined that she “spent literally my entire career working at the nexus between the environment, social justice, and our communities.”

“And there were three contested races, and three women ran, including myself. And one of the reasons I ran is because in the 220 years there has been a public lands committee, there has never been a woman in charge. But unfortunately, one, only one woman won [a] leadership race today — that was Angie Craig — who won the ag race.” 

Stansbury earned the endorsement of outgoing Natural Resources Ranking Member Rep. Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ), who is a socialist, along with all members of New Mexico’s congressional delegation except Sen. Martin Heinrich, who refused to back her in the contest. 

Heinrich is actively mulling a run for the governorship, while Joe Biden’s Interior Sec. Deb Haaland is setting the groundwork for a formal launch after she falls from power in January when the Donald J. Trump administration is inaugurated.

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