Politics

As MLG enters her last 60-day session, Dem infighting likely to sink crime agenda

13 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham enters her final 60-day legislative session with a sharp focus on addressing New Mexico’s crime crisis, which has escalated to unprecedented levels. Her push for a slate of public safety measures—including stiffer penalties for repeat offenders, firearm restrictions, and reforms to criminal competency laws—reflects an acknowledgment of the urgency to restore safety and accountability in the state. However, her own political decisions have created significant obstacles to achieving these goals.

During her tenure, Lujan Grisham orchestrated a reshaping of the Democrat caucus, targeting moderate, pragmatic lawmakers in primary elections and replacing them with progressive allies. 

While this move consolidated her influence, it also sidelined legislators who were more open to bipartisan approaches to crime policy. The result is a Legislature where many Democrats now vehemently oppose tougher penalties, preferring instead to focus on measures like expanded “behavioral health services” and “free” housing initiatives. This ideological shift has left the governor grappling with resistance from within her own party as she attempts to push through her public safety agenda, while also delivering on these ineffective, woke social programs that are proven not to aid in battling crime.

The fallout from last summer’s special session underscores the challenges of this political realignment. The governor’s proposals—ranging from stricter pretrial detention laws to reforms for handling mentally incompetent defendants—were met with a cold shoulder from the very lawmakers she helped elect. The session ended without a single bill advancing, an outcome the governor described as one of the most disappointing days of her career. Her frustration was palpable as she accused legislators of a “dereliction of duty,” but the impasse highlighted her inability to bridge the ideological divide within her own party.

“We all agree that there were a lot of sort of missteps before, in the calling [of the special session] and right after,” she said, according to the Santa Fe New Mexican. “Those missteps, on both sides, are not creating a perception that we can’t work together for any of us in this session. That should not translate to that my job is ever easy or that they think that I’m going to be a pushover. We’re going to come to, I think, the best balance that we’ve ever had. Let’s see if I’m right.”

Despite these setbacks, Lujan Grisham has shown determination to tackle crime. She has held town halls across the state to rally public support and has urged New Mexicans to pressure their representatives to act. Her administration has prepared up to 35 crime-related bills for the session, reflecting a comprehensive, if controversial, approach to addressing public safety. The governor’s emphasis on combating violent crime, holding repeat offenders accountable, and addressing gun violence through measures like assault weapon bans and stricter penalties for felons in possession of firearms resonates with many New Mexicans fed up with the status quo.

However, the governor’s vision faces significant hurdles. Progressive lawmakers and advocacy groups remain skeptical of approaches that punish violent criminals, clinging to the belief that they fail to address the root causes of crime and may infringe on constitutional rights. 

Resistance has also emerged from law enforcement leaders and judges, who question the feasibility of implementing some proposals given the state’s limited behavioral health infrastructure and workforce shortages, according to the New Mexican. 

Even within the Democrat leadership, there is a reluctance to fully embrace Lujan Grisham’s agenda, with Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth cautioning against rushing into measures that could have unintended consequences.

“These are complex, really tricky constitutional issues,” Wirth said. “You can’t pass laws if the infrastructure is not there to get the people the help they need.”

Adding to the complexity is the governor’s mixed messaging about bipartisanship. While she has called for unity in addressing public safety, her political maneuvers have often deepened divisions. Many Republicans, who have long championed tougher crime policies, view her recent proposals as a delayed acknowledgment of the crisis. 

House Minority Whip Alan Martinez noted that Democrats are now adopting ideas Republicans have introduced for years, albeit under different branding. For their part, GOP lawmakers have signaled readiness to work on crime solutions, even as they remain skeptical of the governor’s ability to navigate the legislative gridlock she helped create.

Lujan Grisham’s political legacy is at stake as she seeks to deliver public safety reforms in the waning years of her governorship. The state’s violent crime rate remains among the highest in the nation, with cities like Albuquerque and Santa Fe grappling with repeat offenses, drug abuse, and homelessness. Albuquerque, run by progressive Democrat Mayor Tim Keller, was recently ranked the 20th most dangerous city in the world.

The governor has acknowledged the systemic failures contributing to the crisis, describing it as a breaking point requiring punitive and preventative solutions. Yet her ability to enact meaningful change will depend on overcoming the ideological divisions she has fostered and building consensus across the aisle.

While Lujan Grisham’s newly found crime focus is interesting, given her years-long attacks on New Mexicans’ constitutional rights, her strategy of sidelining moderate voices in favor of a far-left agenda in elections has undercut her ability to rally broad support for critical reforms. 

New Mexicans need action, not political posturing, to ensure safer communities. Whether the governor can deliver on her promises or remains mired in partisan deadlock will define her final chapter in office. However, the ball is entirely in the Democrats’ court, and if they fail to produce results, it is entirely on them — especially since they hold the governorship and wide majorities in both chambers of the legislature.

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What Dems don’t want you to know about their bloated $10.8B budget ask

16 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

State lawmakers unveiled a record-high $10.8 billion spending plan for fiscal year 2026, a budget that includes higher starting salaries for teachers, an average 4% pay increase for state employees, and over $3 billion in one-time expenditures. This marks a 5.7% increase over the current year’s budget. However, a closer examination reveals concerns about the long-term implications of this level of government spending, as highlighted by the Rio Grande Foundation’s analysis.

“New Mexico is in the best financial situation it’s ever been in its history,” said Sen. George Muñoz (D-Gallup), chair of the Legislative Finance Committee (LFC), during a press briefing. Muñoz emphasized that the budget aims to invest in priorities such as education, healthcare, and job opportunities for future generations. Yet, critics argue that such spending perpetuates an unsustainable trajectory.

The budget’s $10.8 billion in recurring spending is slightly below Democrat Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s $10.9 billion proposal. Additionally, while the LFC’s recommendation calls for a 4% raise for state employees, the governor’s plan includes a smaller 3% increase. Differences also exist in reserve levels, with the LFC maintaining reserves at 33% compared to the governor’s 34.2%.

The Rio Grande Foundation raised concerns about the broader implications of the spending spree. With $900 million in new revenue and $13.4 billion in general fund revenue available, the Foundation criticized the lack of focus on returning surplus funds to taxpayers. “Whether the money is spent now or allocated to one of our State’s permanent funds, it is going to be spent by government,” the Foundation noted. The question, they argue, is whether average New Mexicans and businesses will benefit from this surplus.

Despite the enthusiastic rhetoric from lawmakers, the Foundation’s analysis highlights that this budget reflects a growing government at the expense of direct relief to taxpayers. “The Democrats have grown government and mostly NOT shared the wealth with average New Mexicans,” the Foundation’s critique states, pointing to recent electoral success as a driver for this trend. They caution that taxpayers may once again be “left out in the cold,” especially with no tax cuts included in the bill.

Democrat House Speaker Javier Martínez lauded the budget’s focus on affordability, safety, and healthcare access, calling it “a guide and driving force of the entire session.” Similarly, Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth described the spending plan as an “extraordinary opportunity” for investment. However, the Rio Grande Foundation’s perspective suggests a need for restraint and an emphasis on fiscal responsibility.

The proposed $3 billion in one-time spending includes $1.7 billion for endowments and funds, as well as new initiatives such as a “behavioral health trust fund.” While these initiatives aim to address immediate and long-term needs, critics argue they sideline opportunities for direct tax relief. “Taxpayers should have a say in how surplus funds are utilized,” the Rio Grande Foundation posits, urging lawmakers to prioritize returning money to the people who generate it.

As New Mexico’s financial position remains strong, questions about how to balance investment in public services with taxpayer relief will shape the upcoming legislative session. With a budget described by some as a “responsible investment” and by others as a “missed opportunity,” the debate over spending priorities continues.

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Why this major NM practice will no longer deliver babies at Presbyterian Hospital

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In a major shift impacting hundreds of patients, Women’s Specialists of New Mexico has announced it will no longer deliver babies at Presbyterian Hospital. The move, according to Dr. Jean Valdez of Women’s Specialists, is driven by the need to prioritize the physical and mental health of their physicians, who are already stretched thin.

“We can no longer stretch our physicians to cover two hospitals,” Valdez explained. “We have to take both the physical and mental wellbeing of our physicians in mind and can’t stretch them out too far.”

Currently, the practice operates with nine physicians providing 24-hour OB coverage. To meet the demand, they would need to double that number—an unachievable goal given the state’s severe shortage of medical professionals. Valdez highlighted several contributing factors to this crisis, including New Mexico’s medical malpractice laws, tax policies, and low Medicaid reimbursement rates.

This announcement underscores the broader healthcare challenges facing the state. New Mexico has long struggled with recruiting and retaining medical professionals, a situation exacerbated by rural geography, high crime rates, and a struggling education system. These systemic issues, coupled with the economic realities of practicing in the state, have created what many describe as a “crippling shortage” of doctors and other healthcare providers.

On the same day as this announcement, Democratic leaders in the Legislature revealed their plans to address the healthcare provider shortage. The proposed measures include housing subsidies and mandates for specific nursing ratios. However, critics argue these initiatives fail to address the underlying policy issues highlighted by experts like Valdez.

State Rep. Eleanor Chavez (D-Albuquerque), a key proponent of the plan, claimed, “Corporate greed is a driver of the [health care] crisis.” However, this explanation has faced significant pushback. Observers point out that the challenges in healthcare stem from deeper structural issues, such as the third-party payment system, Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement policies, Obamacare regulations, and burdensome occupational licensure requirements. New Mexico’s poor economic climate and historically high crime rates further complicate efforts to attract and retain healthcare workers.

Critics argue that while Democratic leadership acknowledges the problem, their approach does little to address the core barriers preventing medical professionals from choosing New Mexico. As one analysis from the Rio Grande Foundation notes, “Democrats don’t want to address what the EXPERT says is the issue which involves fundamental policy change. Instead, they’d like to blame ‘corporate greed’ and do nothing.”

The decision by Women’s Specialists reflects the real-world consequences of these systemic issues. Without significant reforms to address malpractice laws, economic incentives, and the broader challenges facing healthcare providers, New Mexico’s doctor shortage is likely to persist, leaving patients and providers to bear the burden.

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Heinrich claims energy in NM is ‘affordable’ due to Green New Deal

26 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

During the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee’s confirmation hearing for Energy Secretary nominee Chris Wright, Senator Martin Heinrich of New Mexico asserted that the state has achieved “affordable and reliable” energy. This statement has drawn criticism, given the significant rise in energy costs experienced by New Mexicans in recent years.

Data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicates that residential electricity prices in New Mexico have increased notably. In 2019, the average retail price was approximately 9.47 cents per kilowatt-hour. By 2023, this figure had risen to 11.22 cents per kilowatt-hour, representing an increase of over 18%. This upward trend has placed a financial strain on many residents, with more than 25% of New Mexicans reportedly struggling to pay their energy bills.

Furthermore, statistics indicate that New Mexico energy prices are up over 60% since 2019, with the latest Census data showing more than one out of four New Mexicans struggle to pay their energy bill.

Critics argue that policies such as New Mexico’s Energy Transition Act (ETA), also known as the state’s Green New Deal, aimed at shifting the state towards renewable energy sources, have contributed to these rising costs. The ETA, enacted in 2019, sets ambitious goals for renewable energy adoption, including a transition to 100% carbon-free electricity by 2045.

While the act aims to promote environmental sustainability, opponents contend that the associated costs of infrastructure development and the phasing out of coal-fired power plants have been passed on to consumers, leading to higher utility bills.

The confirmation hearing for Chris Wright, Liberty Energy’s CEO and Secretary of Energy’s nominee, also featured discussions on the nation’s energy policies. Wright emphasized the importance of an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy, advocating for the expansion of nuclear power, liquefied natural gas (LNG) production, and the strengthening of the electrical grid to meet rising demand.

The hearing was not without contention. Senator Heinrich, along with other Democrat committee members, grandstanded over the expedited scheduling of the hearing, citing delays in receiving Wright’s financial and ethics disclosure forms, although Wright’s personal wealth, which is estimated at around $200 million, must take much deliberate accounting to properly report to the Committee.

However, Heinrich’s comments downplaying New Mexicans’ struggles to afford energy in their homes and businesses rings insensitive, especially as Heinrich is reportedly considering running for the governorship in 2026, likely facing off against Joe Biden’s outgoing Interior Secretary Deb Haaland and possibly Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman. 

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First serious GOP name ‘weighing’ 2026 NM governor run

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​​Gregg Hull, currently serving his third term as mayor of Rio Rancho, is reportedly weighing the possibility of entering the race for the Republican nomination for governor of New Mexico. 

While Hull has not confirmed whether he plans to seek reelection as mayor in 2026, speculation is growing about his potential gubernatorial ambitions.

In an interview with the Sandoval Signpost, Hull acknowledged being approached about a run for the governor’s office.

“I’ve been approached by a lot of individuals to look at the possibility, and I’m currently weighing all of my options,” he shared.

Hull first entered the political arena in 2014 when he was elected mayor of Rio Rancho, the state’s second-largest city, after a long career in the private sector.

Sources within the Republican Party, speaking anonymously to the outlet, indicated that Hull is actively gauging support among party members for a campaign to succeed Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, who is term-limited and cannot seek reelection in 2026.

New Mexico Republicans face an uphill battle in statewide elections, having last won a statewide race in 2016 when Judith Nakamura secured reelection to the state Supreme Court. 

However, the GOP has previously seen success at the governor’s mansion, with Susana Martinez winning two terms before Lujan Grisham’s tenure.

On the Democrat side, Joe Biden’s lame-duck Interior Secretary Deb Haaland and U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich are rumored to be considering campaigns for the governorship, with Haaland’s campaign set to start shortly following her ouster from the Interior Department.

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Raising kids in NM? Here’s why new report ranks it 50th for families

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In WalletHub’s 2025 report ranking the best states to raise a family, New Mexico landed in last place out of 50 states, with an overall score of 32.40. 

The report, which analyzed 50 key indicators of family-friendliness, painted a concerning picture for families in the Land of Enchantment.

The report evaluated states across five dimensions: Family Fun, Health & Safety, Education & Child Care, Affordability, and Socio-economics. New Mexico scored poorly across the board, particularly in education and child care, where it ranked dead last at 50th.

This dimension considered metrics like public school quality, graduation rates, and child-care availability—areas where New Mexico continues to struggle despite the so-called “free” (taxpayer-funded) daycare passed by the Democrat-dominated Legislature, which currently has a $9 billion “trust fund.”

According to WalletHub, the state also ranks 47th in both Health & Safety and Socio-economics. Factors such as high crime rates, low median family income (adjusted for cost of living), and a significant percentage of families living in poverty contributed to these low scores. For context, the median family income in New Mexico is among the lowest in the nation, and families face substantial economic challenges.

Chip Lupo, a WalletHub analyst, explained the broader challenges families face nationwide. “Raising a family has become significantly more expensive in recent years as the cost of living has risen quickly. In fact, it can cost a family well over $300,000 to raise a child to age 18, according to statistics from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In light of the expensive nature of being a parent and the responsibility it entails, it’s important to live in a city that is affordable while still providing quality health care, education, safety, and opportunities for enrichment,” Lupo said.

New Mexico also struggles with affordability, ranking 44th, and is noted for being a state where many families find it difficult to save for college or manage medical bills. Moreover, the state ranks 39th in Family Fun, reflecting limited recreational opportunities for children and families compared to higher-ranking states.

While New Mexico offers cultural richness and natural beauty, this report underscores the need for significant investment in public education, economic development, and public safety. 

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Former Rep. Eliseo ‘Lee’ Alcon, 74, passes away

1 Comment / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

​​Eliseo “Lee” Alcon, a longtime legislator who had been battling liver cancer, resigned from his position in the New Mexico House of Representatives late last year after entering hospice care. 

According to House Democrats, he was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing.

Alcon, a Democrat from Milan, was first elected to the New Mexico House of Representatives in 2009. 

Over 16 years, he became a powerful advocate for veterans. He served as the chair of the Consumer and Public Affairs Committee and the Labor, Veterans, and Military Affairs Committee.

A military veteran himself, Alcon served as a combat medic in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, earning a Bronze Star for his valor and commitment on the battlefield.

In a heartfelt statement, House Democrats expressed their grief over Alcon’s death. “We are tremendously saddened by the loss of our esteemed colleague and dear friend Eliseo. During his 16 years in the House, Rep. Alcon was a tireless champion for his western New Mexico community and our service men and women. We deeply appreciated the warmth, kindness, good humor, and dedication he brought to the Roundhouse.”

The statement continued to highlight his achievements, adding, “Rep. Alcon’s legacy will live on through the historic victories he achieved for veterans and their families, New Mexico workers, and our environment. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, especially his beloved wife Darlene and their children, grandchildren, and great-grandson.”

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Piñon Post’s John Block joins RGF’s Paul Gessing to preview 2025 legislature

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Piñon Post publisher and state Rep. John Block (R-Alamogordo) joins the Rio Grande Foundation’s Paul Gessing for an episode of “Tipping Point New Mexico” to discuss what to expect during this upcoming 2025 Legislative Session and what is expected to come up the pipeline.

Block has overseen the Piñon Post since its inception as “John For New Mexico” in 2016 and its official launch as the Post in 2020 — marking five years of constant reporting in the state.

Watch Gessing’s interview with Block by clicking below: 

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Ahead of legislative session, GOP lawmaker resigns, citing health concerns

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New Mexico state Rep. Jared Hembree (R-Chaves) has officially announced his resignation from the New Mexico House of Representatives, citing unforeseen health-related issues that require his immediate attention. The announcement marks the end of his tenure as a representative, a role he described as an honor and privilege.

“It is with a heavy heart that I step down from the State Legislature,” said Representative Hembree in his resignation statement. “Serving the people of my district has been a profound honor. My family and I believe in Chaves County, and we must prioritize my health to ensure we can serve in good faith in the future.”

Rep. Hembree official portrait.

This statement underscores the weight of his decision, as Hembree emphasized his commitment to his constituents and his deep-rooted belief in the Chaves County community. He and his family extended their gratitude to the residents of his district and people across the state for their steadfast support.

In his departure, Hembree has pledged to ensure a smooth transition for his successor, working closely with House Republican leadership to maintain uninterrupted representation for the district. This effort highlights his dedication to his role and the well-being of the community he has served.

House Republican Leader Gail Armstrong released a statement following Hembree’s announcement, expressing the caucus’s collective sorrow and support during this challenging time.

“The thoughts and prayers of the House Republican Caucus are with Representative Hembree and his family during this difficult time,” said Armstrong. “We will forever be grateful for his heart for service and tireless dedication to improving the lives of New Mexicans. Representative Hembree has been a mentor, friend, and inspiration to many of us, and he will be greatly missed in the Roundhouse.”

Hembree’s resignation creates a vacancy in the state legislature, which will necessitate the appointment of a replacement to represent the district. Local officials and the House Republican leadership are expected to work collaboratively to ensure the district continues to receive effective representation.

While Hembree’s departure is a loss for the New Mexico State House, his focus on health and family resonates as a reminder of the personal sacrifices that public service often entails.

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After escaping manslaughter charges, unrepentant Baldwin now suing

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Actor Alec Baldwin has filed a lawsuit against New Mexico prosecutors and the Santa Fe Sheriff’s Office, alleging “malicious” prosecution in the wake of the tragic 2021 shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the film Rust. This comes after Baldwin’s manslaughter case was dismissed during his July trial, with the actor’s legal team accusing officials of withholding critical evidence and pursuing the case for “political” and “personal” reasons.

The shooting shocked Hollywood and reignited debates over firearm safety on movie sets. Baldwin, who was both the actor holding the weapon and a producer on the film, faced intense scrutiny for his role in the incident. Despite this, he managed to evade criminal charges, sparking criticism that justice has not been served for Hutchins and her family.

In the lawsuit filed in Santa Fe, Baldwin’s attorneys claim that the special prosecutor and sheriff’s office conspired to bring him to trial for “political” gain. They point to a comment made by former special prosecutor Andrea Reeb, who allegedly suggested the case could bolster her political career. The complaint further alleges that prosecutor Kari Morrissey presented “false and incomplete” testimony to secure Baldwin’s grand jury indictment.

While Baldwin’s legal team seeks financial damages, they also call for accountability from those who pursued his case. “Defendants must now be held accountable for their malicious and unlawful pursuit of Baldwin,” the lawsuit states. But this aggressive counteraction has drawn criticism, especially given Baldwin’s role as a producer and central figure in the Rust tragedy.

Halyna Hutchins lost her life when Baldwin pointed a reproduction 1873 single-action revolver at her during a rehearsal. Baldwin has claimed he did not pull the trigger, but forensic evidence has suggested otherwise. The gun discharged a live round, allegedly loaded inadvertently by weapons handler Hannah Gutierrez Reed, who was later convicted of involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to 18 months in jail.

Baldwin’s defense has consistently emphasized that live rounds should never have been on set and that he bears no responsibility for the weapon’s safety. However, as a producer, Baldwin had a duty to ensure that safety protocols were followed, raising questions about his accountability beyond the moment of the shooting.

Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer dismissed Baldwin’s case, citing the “willful withholding” of evidence by the prosecution. She described the actions of the special prosecutor and sheriff’s office as showing “scorching prejudice.” Morrissey and the sheriff’s office filed evidence regarding the source of live rounds under a different case number, further complicating the investigation. Morrissey denies any wrongdoing, maintaining that the evidence handling was proper.

While Baldwin has filed his lawsuit, he must now prove that the defendants—public officials—are not protected by state laws granting immunity for actions taken within their official duties. This legal battle adds yet another layer of complexity to a case already fraught with controversy.

Critics argue that Baldwin’s lawsuit is an attempt to shift focus from his own responsibilities as both an actor and producer. While the prosecution’s errors are undeniable, Baldwin’s refusal to acknowledge any personal accountability has left many feeling that justice remains elusive for Hutchins’ family. The actor’s dismissal of any role in ensuring on-set safety—despite being one of the film’s key decision-makers—has fueled accusations of deflection.

This lawsuit may provide Baldwin with a platform to clear his name in court, but it also highlights broader issues about accountability in Hollywood. As calls for stricter safety protocols on film sets grow louder, Baldwin’s case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of negligence and the legal quagmires that often follow.

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