On Monday, Bernalillo Sheriff John Allen blasted Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s unconstitutional order to disarm all law-abiding citizens in Bernalillo County from having either concealed or open firearms.
He said, “I’m not going to enforce it.”
“The governor made it clear in her press conference,” he said, adding, “She knew we as law enforcement did not agree with the order, and as a result this was solely her decision.”
“We don’t agree with this at all. This is unconstitutional and like I said, I uphold my oath seriously,” Allen said.
The first Democrat legislator finally broke their silence, with state Sen. Joseph Cervantes (D-Doña Ana County) writing on Twitter, “Having passed key gun safety laws working with her administration, I call on the Governor to rescind her order outlawing arms.”
He further wrote, “An unconstitutional approach undermines the important collaboration gun issues deserve, and the important role of a Governor to lead genuine reforms.”
Having passed key gun safety laws working with her administration, I call on the Governor to rescind her order outlawing arms. An unconstitutional approach undermines the important collaboration gun issues deserve, and the important role of a Governor to lead genuine reforms.
As the U.S. Constitution comes under attack in his district by anti-gun Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, far-left U.S. Rep. Gabe Vasquez, who is extremely vulnerable in 2024, refused to stand up for constitutional rights by condemning the governor’s attacks.
On Friday, New Mexico Governor Lujan Grisham issued an emergency order suspending the right to carry firearms in public across Albuquerque and all of Bernalillo County county for at least 30 days. She also erroneously claimed she had the power to do it by executive order, claiming citizens’ rights are not “absolute.”
While other Democrats like far-left U.S. Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA) and anti-gun activist David Hogg publicly condemned Governor Grisham for suspending the U.S. Constitution, Vasquez and all New Mexico congressional representatives are silent. Not a single Democrat state representative or senator has come out in support of the governor’s unconstitutional order.
Lujan Grisham even went on the defense on X, formerly Twitter, to attack Lieu for his stance against her gun grab.
“Hey Ted, conceal and open carry are state laws that I have jurisdiction over. If you’re really interested in helping curb gun violence, I’d welcome you to join our next police academy class,” the governor wrote to her former colleague in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Hey Ted, conceal and open carry are state laws that I have jurisdiction over. If you’re really interested in helping curb gun violence, I’d welcome you to join our next police academy class. https://t.co/Odf9fNbO2Whttps://t.co/17ca1dYpLc
Vasquez and other Democrats’ silence on Governor Grisham’s decision is deafening, with the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) saying it is again “showing that Vasquez is willing to align himself with the extreme edges on his party.”
The NRCC’s spokeswoman, Delanie Bomar, said in a statement, “Since coming to D.C. Gabe Vasquez has aligned himself with the extreme Left on a number of issues, the latest of which is this gun ban.”
She added, “Vasquez cannot ignore a violation of the Constitution and expect New Mexicans to accept his silence.”
New Mexico has made international news for the unconstitutional gun grab, with news outlets in Europe, Asia, and other continents picking up the story of the power grab.
On Friday, far-left anti-gun Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham opened up likely the biggest can of worms in her entire tenure as governor with the most brazenly unconstitutional move yet — banning all open or concealed carry for anyone in Bernalillo County — claiming their constitutional rights are now “suspended” due to a “public health emergency” she just declared via executive order.
Social media and the news exploded with outraged comments coming from all sides. State Reps. Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) and John Block (R-Alamogordo) called for the governor’s impeachment over her crimes against the Constitution and her oath of office, which she described as not “absolute.”
The state House Republicans announced their own lawsuit against the governor, writing in a press release that they “will file a federal lawsuit alongside the NM Senate Republicans challenging the unconstitutional gun ban enacted by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.”
“The outrage from New Mexicans and Americans across the country reveals how precious our rights are, and we will not back down from defending and fighting for what makes the United States of America a unique experiment. This country and our state were founded on principles of freedom and democracy, and one political figure will not erase our shared history,” said GOP House Leader Ryan Lane (R-Aztec).
Elon Musk even called for the far-left governor’s removal.
Then the most unlikely voice came out against her — extreme far-left U.S. Rep. Ted Lieu (R-California) — who said, “I support gun safety laws. However, this order from the Governor of New Mexico violates the U.S. Constitution. No state in the union can suspend the federal Constitution. There is no such thing as a state public health emergency exception to the U.S. Constitution.”
I support gun safety laws. However, this order from the Governor of New Mexico violates the U.S. Constitution. No state in the union can suspend the federal Constitution. There is no such thing as a state public health emergency exception to the U.S. Constitution. https://t.co/kOhLMtaOl2
Lieu served alongside Lujan Grisham while she was a congresswoman from New Mexico’s First District from 2013 to 2019. She served with the California Democrat from 2015 until her inauguration as New Mexico governor. To make matters worse for the governor, Democrat Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller and Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen have refused to enforce the unconstitutional order, saying he has extreme “reservations” regarding its constitutionality.
Following Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s controversial press conference where she announced the suspension of Bernalillo County residents’ rights to open or concealed-carry firearms, the responses on social media, particularly X (formerly Twitter), have ignited a massive national conversation. Among those who voiced their concerns was Elon Musk, the renowned entrepreneur behind SpaceX and Tesla.
In response to a video of Governor Lujan Grisham’s announcement, Elon Musk took to X to express his sentiments. He stated, “At [the] risk of stating what should be obvious, deliberately violating the Constitution is next-level illegal,” underscoring his belief in the unconstitutionality of the governor’s actions.
Musk continued by posing a question that resonated with many, “How soon can this person be removed from office?”
At risk of stating what should be obvious, deliberately violating the Constitution is next-level illegal.
Musk’s comment echoed the concerns of numerous individuals who viewed Governor Lujan Grisham’s order as an infringement on Second Amendment rights, sparking a broader conversation about the legality and constitutionality of such measures.
During her press conference, Governor Lujan Grisham acknowledged that her order might face constitutional challenges. She emphasized that no right is absolute, including her own oath to uphold the Constitution. The move was met with fierce opposition from those who believe it infringes on citizens’ rights.
The controversy surrounding this issue has raised questions about executive authority’s limits and constitutional rights’ protection. While Governor Lujan Grisham asserts that her actions are necessary to address the issue of gun violence, critics argue that suspending residents’ Second Amendment rights goes against the principles of the Constitution.
Elon Musk’s involvement in this debate adds a high-profile voice to the chorus of those who believe that the governor’s actions are unconstitutional. As the founder of multiple influential companies, Musk’s statements carry significant weight in public discourse. His call to remove Governor Lujan Grisham from office underscores the seriousness of the constitutional concerns raised by the order.
It is important to note that this issue has sparked intense debate in New Mexico and across the United States. The balance between public safety and individual rights has long been a contentious topic in the country, and this recent controversy further highlights the deep divisions surrounding the Second Amendment and gun control measures.
As the debate continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how various legal challenges, public opinion, and political actions will shape the outcome of Governor Lujan Grisham’s order and its impact on the rights of Bernalillo County residents.
State Reps. John Block (R-Alamogordo) and Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) have announced that they are already lining up impeachment articles with legal counsel.
On Friday, following a press conference where far-left anti-gun Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham ordered all concealed and open-carried firearms banned in Bernalillo County, Sheriff John Allen distanced himself from the extreme order.
Although he did not go right out and say he would not enforce her order, he wrote in a statement that “as the elected Sheriff, I have reservations regarding this order. While I understand and appreciate the urgency, the temporary ban challenges the foundation of our Constitution, which I swore an oath to uphold.”
He continued, “I am wary of placing my deputies in positions that could lead to civil liability conflicts, as well as the potential risks posed by prohibiting law-abiding citizens from their constitutional right to self-defense.”
“I was elected to represent and safeguard all constituents and to ensure the balance between our rights and public safety is maintained. That means we must critically evaluate any proposed solution to the deeply rooted issue of gun violence, ensuring we both protect our community and uphold the values that define us as a nation.”
He listed some ways he wanted to address so-called “gun violence,” including enforcing anti-gun laws actually passed by the legislature, such as an extreme Red Flag law. He also said he will continue to find “sustainable solutions” to address the issue.
Today, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham issued an emergency order temporarily suspending open and concealed carry laws in Albuquerque and throughout Bernalillo County for the next 30 days. This move has been positioned as a response to the alarming and tragic rise in gun violence,… pic.twitter.com/prfHGdISS1
At the press conference, Lujan Grisham said no rights are “absolute” and that her oath to the Constitution is not absolute. Allen joined the governor and others at the roundtable press conference held at the Capitol.
On Friday, far-left anti-gun Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham unilaterally — and unconstitutionally — violated New Mexico state laws and the U.S. and state constitutions by ordering all concealed-carrying of firearms be banned in Albuquerque.
She said, “In this public health order, which is effective today, September 8th, which lasts thirty days, and then like all the other public health orders, we will either amend or renew or adjust depending upon where we are. So, effective immediately, no person other than a law enforcement officer or licensed security officer shall possess a firearm either openly or concealed within cities or counties averaging 1,000 or more violent crimes per 100,000 and more than 90 firearm-related emergency department visits.”
She noted how the criteria in the order would affect “Albuquerque and Bernalillo Counties” for 30 days.
“We’re suspending open and concealed carry,” she added.
Lujan Grisham even admitted how illegal the order is, saying, “I am sure before you [the media] write this, there will be a legal challenge, and I can’t tell you that we win it, given all of the different challenges to gun violence laws and restrictions on individual firearm access and control.”
The extremist move violates the New Mexico and federal constitutions, as well as state laws such as the Concealed Handgun Carry Act of 2003. Because the order is illegal and an abomination of the Constitution, it is therefore null and void.
However, the governor still contends that any right in the Constitution is not “absolute,” saying even her oath to the Constitution is not absolute:
Governor Lujan Grisham says her duty to uphold her oath to the constitution is "not absolute" pic.twitter.com/Mla4rcNXMX
Former state Rep. Sharon Clahchischilliage, a lifelong public servant, veteran, teacher, and former State Representative, has officially announced her candidacy for the Republican nomination in New Mexico’s Third Congressional District. Clahchischilliage’s extensive background in serving her community positions her as a candidate ready to deliver for the hardworking people of New Mexico.
Clahchischilliage is challenging the incumbent far-left Democrat Teresa Leger Fernandez, whom she criticizes for prioritizing a radical agenda over the needs of New Mexico’s citizens. She asserts that it is time for Congress to hear a voice like hers, one grounded in service to the country, education, farming, and opposition to radical policies in Santa Fe.
“We are tired of hearing one thing from our elected officials in New Mexico and watching them do another in Washington. Teresa Leger Fernandez has promised a lot and delivered on none of it, probably because she’s too busy playing politics and pushing President Biden’s failed agenda on us,” said Clahchischilliage. “It’s time for Congress to hear a voice like mine, someone who has served our country, taught in the classroom, raised on the family farm, and fought against the radicals in Santa Fe.”
Courtesey photo via former state Rep. Sharon Clahchischilliage.
Clahchischilliage’s candidacy centers on restoring commonsense values to Washington and delivering results for the hardworking families of New Mexico. She emphasizes the need to address pressing issues such as high costs, escalating crime rates, struggling public education, and border security, which she believes have been ignored by Teresa Leger Fernandez and President Joe Biden.
“Costs are too high, crime is out-of-control, public education is leaving students behind and pushing parents out, and the border remains open to drugs and dangerous cartels. We can do better, but we need someone in Congress who will tackle these challenges, not ignore them like Teresa Leger Fernandez and Joe Biden,” stated Sharon Clahchischilliage.
Sharon Clahchischilliage’s background as a public servant, rooted in family values and a deep connection to New Mexico’s unique issues, positions her as a candidate who understands the concerns of her constituents. With experience in teaching, public health service, and advocacy for the Navajo Nation, she brings a diverse skill set to the table.
As a former State Representative, Clahchischilliage sponsored legislation aimed at building roads, strengthening the economy, and supporting rural New Mexicans. Currently, she serves on the Public Education Commission and the Board of Directors for Be Well NM, where she continues her dedication to improving the lives of New Mexicans.
Sharon Clahchischilliage’s candidacy represents a commitment to public service, strong family values, and a deep understanding of New Mexico’s unique challenges. Her run for the Republican nomination in New Mexico’s Third Congressional District aims to provide a voice for the hardworking people of the state and address pressing issues in Washington.
A Democrat representative in New Mexico, State Representative Miguel P. García (D-Albuquerque), has taken legal action against Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham over her veto of significant portions of an omnibus tax bill during the 2023 legislative session. García filed a petition in the New Mexico Supreme Court on September 6, 2023, seeking to declare the governor’s actions unconstitutional. To assist in this legal challenge, García enlisted the support of a lawyer and former New Mexico Senator Jacob Candelaria (I-Albuquerque).
The focus of the legal action is House Bill 547, which García contends is primarily a tax bill, not a bill appropriating money. He argues that Governor Lujan Grisham exceeded her limited line-item veto authority by striking down most of the bill, including provisions related to tax proposals to exempt more Social Security retirement income from State Income Tax.
House Bill 547 was a substantial piece of legislation during the recent legislative session, spanning over 100 pages. It sought to bring about various changes, including adjustments to the state’s income tax brackets, establishing a single corporate income tax rate, and introducing tax credits for a wide range of workers. This bipartisan effort was hailed as one of the most comprehensive tax reforms in recent years.
However, when the bill reached the governor’s desk, Lujan Grisham exercised her veto power to eliminate significant portions, including the proposed changes to the state’s income tax brackets. In her message to the legislature explaining her decision, she expressed concerns about the overall sustainability of the tax package, citing potential impacts on essential services and programs such as education, healthcare, public safety, and infrastructure.
Despite her veto, the governor did acknowledge her support for specific aspects of the bill. She emphasized her approval of portions that provided one-time tax rebates, increased the child income tax credit, enhanced the benefits of the film tax credit, and expanded the health practitioners’ gross receipts tax deduction. According to her statement, these measures aligned with her commitment to supporting working families, the healthcare system, and the state’s economy.
KRQE News 13 reached out to the governor’s office for a response to the legal challenge seeking to overturn the vetoes. In response, Caroline Sweeney, the governor’s press secretary, issued a statement acknowledging the right of New Mexicans to use the judicial system for seeking change and stated that they anticipate the suit will be dismissed after a judge’s review.
The legal dispute centers on interpreting the New Mexico Constitution, which grants the governor the authority to veto entire bills and approve or disapprove parts of any bill appropriating money. The petition argues that this language prevents the governor from vetoing portions of a tax bill like House Bill 547, which does not appropriate money. Candelaria contends that while the bill does mention money, such as tax rebate checks approved by lawmakers, a separate law appropriates those funds.
It remains to be seen when the New Mexico Supreme Court will address this issue, as there is no specific time obligation outlined in the state’s court procedures under Rule Set 12.
Far-left Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a “gun violence” “public health emergency” on Thursday, as well as shelling out $750,000 taxpayer dollars on new gun grabs, which she did by the stroke of a pen in an executive order.
The governor used an 11-year-old boy’s tragic murder on the way home from a baseball game as the pretext for her order.
Here’s how New Mexicans responded to Lujan Grisham’s latest attempt at clinging to more power:
New Mexico House Republican Leader Ryan Lane (R-Aztec) wrote, “It is unfortunate that the Governor has decided to politicize the death of an 11-year-old to push her anti-gun agenda. What’s likewise unfortunate is that with billions in revenue this state has not funded meaningful criminal justice reform including addressing reckless pre-trial release policies and behavioral health rehabilitation. The Democrat’s policies have created and exacerbated the crime crisis that is literally killing New Mexicans daily. It is unacceptable that it has taken this long to notice the number of everyday New Mexicans that are being affected by criminal violence.”
State Rep. Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) wrote on X, “If only @GovMLG cared about the high number of babies and children that have died from Fentanyl overdose in New Mexico.”
“Or cared about the 599 overdose deaths each year, putting New Mexico 45.89% higher than the national average OD death rate. Or if she had pushed for the increased penalty bills for criminals with guns that I cosigned with Rep Bill Rehm. Or pushed for the ‘tough on crime’ bills that we presented.”
She added, “If only she cared enough to look at other states and how they have successfully lowered crime with task forces in high-crime areas that target criminals with guns.”
One person wrote, “What are you going to do to stop violent criminals? Guns are inanimate and in no way, shape, or form commit violent crime. People commit crime and it’s cowardice to blame inanimate objects. Not fooled.”
“This is on YOU. You have created the crisis. The Constitution CANNOT be suspended because of a State public emergency that you have no authority to initiate & make up based on the policies YOU put into place,” another wrote, adding, “THE CHILD’S BLOOD IS ON YOU & THOSE THAT SUPPORT YOUR INSANITY. OWN IT. Because I guarantee I will let everyone know about throughout NM. You will not be able to escape the truth of what you are responsible for. I will not be silent.”
“Disregard and flatly ignore NM Executive Order 2023-130,” wrote state Rep. John Block (R-Alamogordo).
The New Mexico Shooting Sports Association wrote, “For years, our Governor has constantly attacked law enforcement and peaceful gun owners while violent crime spiraled out of control. With every legislative measure passed, the problem has only become worse. This only stops when violent criminals are held accountable.”
Here are some other notable replies to Lujan Grisham’s latest order:
Far-left anti-gun Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a public health emergency in New Mexico, cloaking it in the tragic murder of an 11-year-old boy on his way home from a baseball game.
“The time for standard measures has passed,” she wrote. “Today, I am declaring gun violence a public health emergency in New Mexico.” Gov. Lujan Grisham emphasized what she perceived as the need for additional action to combat the escalating gun violence.
“I want to know that local officials are giving the epidemic of gun violence the attention it deserves. I want to know that every parent is making sure their guns are locked up. I want to know that district attorneys and judges are using every tool at their disposal to hold bad actors accountable. I want to know that every gun store is not allowing straw purchases. I want to know that every law enforcement agency is using our red flag law,” she added in the long-winded statement.
The governor called on citizens to demand change from their communities, friends, and elected leaders, urging them to get involved and speak out against “gun violence.” She pledged to provide more details on this public health emergency in collaboration with law enforcement and criminal justice leadership.
Governor Lujan Grisham has scheduled a meeting to determine immediate actions to snatch guns in New Mexico communities. She also made a plea to Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller and U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, urging them to take swift action to combat the illegal flow of drugs and guns into the state and provide additional federal resources. She even claimed she “begged” Garland for additional federal agents.
The governor noted that the executive order “provides $750,000 to state agencies for the purposes of quickly reducing gun violence and encourages mayors, sheriffs and other officials… request additional emergency funding from the state as well.”
Lujan Grisham has been actively seeking federal assistance since June 2022, and she claims she recently sent her fourth letter to the U.S. Department of Justice, emphasizing the urgent need for immediate resources to combat violent crime in New Mexico.
The executive order and accompanying press release were light on solutions to help with New Mexico’s mental health crisis.
