Democrat

DOGE panel: Chaos erupts as Stansbury shouts over Greene in wild trans tirade

36 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In a chaotic display of political theater, Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), the ranking member of the DOGE Subcommittee, was gavelled down by Chairwoman Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) after launching into a rambling tirade defending extremist transgender ideology during a congressional hearing Wednesday.

The hearing, meant to investigate alarming instances of government waste, fraud, and abuse—including how taxpayer dollars are funneled through radical gender ideology programs—was repeatedly hijacked by Democrats attempting to derail the proceedings with irrelevant political grandstanding.

“And with that, I recognize Ms. Stansbury to defend all the trans,” Greene said dryly, setting the stage for what turned into a bizarre and embarrassing spectacle. Before Stansbury could begin, Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) interrupted with a failed point of order, accusing Greene of improperly running the committee—a tactic that ultimately fell flat as Greene overruled it.

But what followed was even more absurd. Stansbury, seemingly uninterested in discussing the actual topic of government mismanagement, launched into a nearly five-minute rant accusing Republicans of “bullying trans kids” and bizarrely suggesting that the committee had been created to “do Elon Musk’s bidding.”

“This is not an oversight hearing,” Stansbury declared dismissively. “They’re bullying trans kids. They’re talking about things that have absolutely nothing to do with government oversight.”

As witnesses—including women’s rights activists—testified about the devastating impacts of biological males competing in women’s sports, Stansbury tried to reframe the hearing as an attack on “transgender” individuals, ignoring the real victims: the women and girls injured and sidelined by unfair competition.

When her allotted time expired, Greene politely reminded her: “The gentle lady’s time has expired.” But Stansbury refused to yield, continuing to shout over the chair and attempting to pose further questions to Fatima Goss Graves of the far-left National Women’s Law Center, who was there defending transgender inclusion in women’s spaces.

“You took a minute of my time, wasting my time on a non-point of order. The gentle lady’s time has expired,” Greene reiterated firmly, as Stansbury ignored the gavel and continued grandstanding. “We stand with the LGBTQ+ community, and you can gavel me until the cows come home and it won’t stop it!” she yelled, as Greene had to repeatedly pound the gavel to restore order.

The embarrassing episode exposed the dangerous lengths far-left politicians like Stansbury are willing to go to defend radical gender ideology—even at the expense of women’s safety and fairness. While the committee was focused on exposing how public funds are misused under the guise of “diversity and inclusion,” Stansbury treated the hearing as a stage for partisan theatrics, trivializing the concerns of women injured in sports and the taxpayers footing the bill.

As the hearing continued, Democrats persisted in their efforts to distract and delay, but Greene remained steadfast, ensuring witnesses could testify about how taxpayer dollars are being weaponized to promote extremist ideologies at the expense of everyday Americans.

For Rep. Stansbury, however, the day ended not with a legislative victory, but with an embarrassing spectacle—and the unmistakable sound of the chairman’s gavel silencing her failed political stunt.

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NM Dems react after first GOP candidate Gregg Hull steps into governor’s race

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Rio Rancho Mayor Greggory “Gregg” Hull has officially launched his campaign for governor in New Mexico’s 2026 Republican primary, igniting swift backlash from the state’s Democrat establishment—but also shining a spotlight on the growing dissatisfaction many New Mexicans feel under current Democratic leadership. In a release, Hull stated he will formally announce his campaign on June 2, precisely one year before the general election, marking his transition from municipal leadership into the state’s highest-stakes political arena.

Hull, who has served as mayor of Rio Rancho since 2014 and won his third term in 2022, emphasized public safety, job creation, infrastructure development, and education as cornerstones of his platform. On his campaign website, he notes that during his tenure, the Rio Rancho Police Department’s budget has more than doubled, and the city has consistently ranked among the safest in New Mexico. Although 2024 did see a rise in homicides, Rio Rancho still earned a place on Livability’s list of the top 25 best places to live in the Southwest, a reflection of the city’s overall strong governance under Hull.

Hull’s focus on combating crime sharply contrasts with the soft-on-crime policies that have plagued the state under Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, who is term-limited. Hull is advocating for increased law enforcement presence across the state, greater border security to combat the fentanyl epidemic, and a zero-tolerance stance on violent crimes and offenses against children. These priorities are resonating with many New Mexicans frustrated by skyrocketing crime and a state government that seems more interested in progressive virtue signaling than solving real-world problems.

Within hours of Hull’s announcement, the Democratic Party of New Mexico issued an aggressive statement attempting to discredit his candidacy, claiming, “New Mexicans remember how disastrous a GOP governor can be,” and referencing the Susana Martinez administration. They accused Hull of being a “Trump lackey” and painted a glowing picture of Democratic rule, touting so-called progress on abortion access (legalization of abortion up-to-birth with no protections for women, children, or medical professionals), early childhood education (a multi-billion-dollar slush fund), and “climate” initiatives that are driving jobs out of the state in droves.

However, their rhetoric quickly falls apart under scrutiny. Under Democrat control, New Mexico has consistently ranked among the worst states in the nation in multiple key categories. The state is dead last in education, with some of the lowest math and reading proficiency scores in the U.S. It also ranks at or near the bottom for child well-being, economic opportunity, infrastructure quality, and healthcare access. According to U.S. News and World Report, New Mexico remains the most dangerous state in the country, plagued by violent crime and drug abuse. The state is also among the worst for child poverty and unemployment. These aren’t abstract issues—they are measurable failures that have left everyday New Mexicans worse off.

While far-left Democratic candidates Deb Haaland and Sam Bregman may be leading in fundraising (due to them announcing sooner), Hull’s campaign represents something far more potent: the potential for accountability and a return to common-sense governance. Despite that, he has already reportedly raised $210,000.

As crime surges, the economy stagnates, and public schools continue to fail, many voters are questioning whether the so-called “progress” under Democrat leadership has amounted to anything more than empty slogans. Hull’s entry into the race offers a stark alternative—one grounded in results, not political cheap shots. Learn more about Hull’s campaign via his website.

NM Dems react after first GOP candidate Gregg Hull steps into governor’s race Read More »

‘Gaslighting liar’: Democrat scrambles for cover after terror attack on NM GOP HQ

32 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

At a Saturday town hall in Santa Fe where U.S. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-CD-3) called for followers to “agitate” against Republicans, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Trump administration in general, she is now trying to save face following the firebombing of the Republican Party of New Mexico Headquarters early in the morning Sunday.

At the town hall, Leger Fernandez told the crowd, “Legislate, litigate, agitate! And you guys are part of the ‘agitate’ part.” 

The inciting words were widely seen as a call for violence, mainly because they were not qualified in any way to ensure this agitation was done legally or peacefully.

Her comments come in the wake of violent domestic terrorists torching Tesla vehicles at dealerships, including on tribal land in New Mexico, where Teslas have been seen vandalized following CEO Elon Musk’s advisor role to President Donald Trump. 

After the inflammatory language, violent domestic terrorists committed arson at the state GOP headquarters in Albuquerque, effectively blowing up the main entrance, causing smoke damage throughout, and wrote in a stencil on the stucco outside, “ICE = KKK.” 

Many hours following the terror attack, Leger Fernandez wrote, “Political violence is unacceptable, including the arson attack on New Mexico’s GOP headquarters. The perpetrators must be held accountable. Every American should be able to freely and safely participate in our democracy.”

She added, “At my town hall yesterday, I spoke about love in action—about the importance of showing respect and listening. That is what we need right now.” 

The Democrat conveniently left out the part where she called her supporters to take to agitating those who disagree with them by antagonizing conservatives — resulting hours later in a violent arson attack that could have left people injured or killed.

One X user wrote on Leger Fernandez’s post, “Uhm…  You called for people to ‘agitate’ against Trump, Musk, Republicans, conservatives, and others with whom y’all disagree. Stop lying.” 

“You told them their role was to agitate. They did exactly what you told them to do. Step up and bluntly say you were wrong and to NOT cause destruction and harm. This is on you. Fix it,” wrote another. 

One person added, “[Y]ou incite it at your rally then deny, gaslighting liar. you don’t represent me or NM.”

Arsonists firebomb New Mexico GOP’s Albuquerque headquarters

‘Gaslighting liar’: Democrat scrambles for cover after terror attack on NM GOP HQ Read More »

NM legislator’s past conflicts of interest contradict current ethics rhetoric

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New Mexico State Rep. Micaela Lara Cadena, D-Mesilla, recently took a strong stance in favor of what is being billed as a transparency in lobbying bill, passionately advocating for H.B. 143, a measure aimed at shining a brighter light on lobbying activities at the Roundhouse. However, her own record raises serious questions about whether her push for transparency is genuine—or just political grandstanding.

During a recent Senate Rules Committee hearing, Cadena lamented that legislative decisions in New Mexico do not always happen “in light and in transparency,” according to a Santa Fe New Mexican report. 

She pointedly referenced an instance where two committee members voted on a bill despite having direct financial interests in its outcome. 

“Just today in our tax committee, we voted on a bill where two members of the committee who have direct financial interest in the piece of legislation we are considering took votes,” she said, adding, “I think an incredible amendment to this bill would be that us as members of the body, if we had a spouse or ourselves had a financial interest in the legislation we are considering, would have to at least disclose that since recusal is not something our body is used to or seems to practice.”

Yet, just a few years ago, Cadena herself was seen in a bout of blatant conflicts of interest, actively participating in legislation that directly benefited the organization she worked for—without recusing herself.

Cadena’s Own Ethical Questions

Cadena, while serving her first term in the New Mexico House, was also employed as the Research Director for Young Women United (YWU), an organization that aggressively lobbies for expanded abortion access, as reported by our predecessor site, JohnForNM.com in 2019 

YWU was a key player in the push for that year’s House Bill 51, which sought to expand abortion rights in the state. Not only was Cadena personally involved with YWU’s legislative agenda, but her direct association with the group was evident—her name and photo were even featured on the Respect New Mexico Women coalition’s website, an advocacy group tied to YWU.

Under the New Mexico Legislative Ethics Guide, legislators are expected to recuse themselves from voting on bills where they or their organizations have a direct interest. Despite this clear ethical guideline, Cadena actively participated in discussions and votes that directly benefited her employer, violating the very principles of transparency and accountability she now claims to champion.

Double Standards on Lobbying and Influence

Cadena’s recent statements in favor of 2025’s HB 143 come across as hollow in light of her past actions. She has expressed concerns about legislators voting on bills where they have personal financial interests, yet she saw no issue with doing the same when it suited her political and professional objectives. 

This raises a fundamental question: Is Cadena truly committed to ethics reform, or is she simply using the issue as a tool to target political opponents while ignoring her own potential transgressions?

Moreover, her recent push for greater disclosure in lobbying lacks credibility when considering her history of working for a lobbying organization while simultaneously serving as a lawmaker. The very transparency measures she now supports would have, in theory, required her to disclose her connections to YWU more openly—something she conveniently avoided when it would have affected her own career.

Political Opportunism Over Genuine Reform

Cadena’s inconsistency on ethics and transparency demonstrates the kind of political opportunism that frustrates voters. While she is quick to call for others to be held accountable, she has shown little regard for the rules when they apply to her. Her actions highlight the hypocrisy that often plagues politics, where lawmakers demand accountability from others while conveniently ignoring their own conflicts of interest.

If Cadena truly believes in transparency and ethics, she should start by acknowledging her past violations and committing to holding herself to the same standard she seeks to impose on others. Until then, her advocacy for HB 143 rings hollow, serving more as a political maneuver than a genuine commitment to reform.

NM legislator’s past conflicts of interest contradict current ethics rhetoric Read More »

All the NM House Dems who defied party, rejected job-killing paid leave bill

7 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

The controversial job-crushing “Welcome Child and Family Wellness Leave Act,” formerly known as the “Paid Family and Medical Leave Act,” narrowly passed the New Mexico House of Representatives last week, but not without significant pushback. While all Republicans opposed the bill, five Democrats also voted against it. Here’s a look at the five House Democrats who sided with the GOP in rejecting this legislation:

1. Rep. Martha Garcia (D-Pine Hill)

Garcia was recently appointed to the House, succeeding former Rep. Eliseo “Lee” Alcon. Although hailed as a “progressive,” her vote denotes maybe a more independent mindset. 

Photo of Ms. Garcia via the Cibola County Commission website archive.

2. Rep. Patricia Lundstrom (D-Gallup)

Lundstrom, a long-serving lawmaker known for her focus on fiscal responsibility, voted against the bill. Gallup businesses were notably vocal against the bill.

3. Rep. Wonda Johnson (D-Church Rock)

Johnson, representing a largely Native American constituency, rejected the bill with her vote against it.

4. Rep. Marian Matthews (D-Albuquerque)

Despite representing a district in Albuquerque, Matthews has maintained a more moderate stance on business regulations. Democrats attempted to defeat her in primary elections for rejecting the bill in the past, but she has been successful in fending off radical leftists in her party.

5. Rep. Joseph Sanchez (D-Alcalde)

Sanchez, known for his pragmatic approach to policy, voted against the bill, as he has in the past.

A Growing Divide Over Business and Labor Issues

The opposition of these five Democrats highlights a growing divide within the party over business regulations and economic policy. While proponents of the bill, such as Rep. Christine Chandler (D-Los Alamos), call it a “transformational” step for workers, critics argue that it could create a “workforce nightmare,” as House Republicans have described it.

With the bill now heading to the Senate, its fate remains uncertain. Senate President Pro Tem Mimi Stewart (D-Albuquerque) has already raised concerns about the financial feasibility of using state funds for parental leave, signaling potential hurdles ahead. Whether Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham will sign the bill into law, if it reaches her desk, is another question entirely.

All the NM House Dems who defied party, rejected job-killing paid leave bill Read More »

‘Justice and equity’: MLG taps 78-year-old progressive for vacant House seat

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On Wednesday, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham appointed Martha Garcia, a 78-year-old former Cibola County Commissioner and president of the Ramah Navajo Chapter House, to fill the vacant New Mexico House District 6 seat following the passing of Rep. Eliseo Alcon.

The district, which covers Cibola and McKinley counties, including the Village of Milan, the Pueblo of Zuni, and parts of the Navajo Nation, has been unrepresented since late November when Alcon resigned due to declining health. Alcon, who was 74, passed away in January.

Progressive freshman State Sen. Angel Charley (D-Acoma), whose district overlaps with HD 6, called Garcia’s appointment “historic” and praised her commitment to advancing justice and equity. “Today’s appointment marks a significant milestone, not only for House District 6 but for the generations who have fought for a voice in decisions that shape our future,” Charley said in a statement. “Martha’s commitment to justice, equity, and the well-being of our people will serve as a guiding light in the legislature. I look forward to working alongside her to uplift our small towns and tribal communities in western New Mexico and protect the values we hold dear.”

Photo of Ms. Garcia via the Cibola County Commission website archive.

Garcia, known for her progressive stance on key issues, did not respond to voicemails requesting comment on Wednesday, according to reports.

Before Garcia’s selection, governing boards in Cibola and McKinley counties had nominated two other candidates for the seat, but residency investigations found one of them ineligible. The governor chose Garcia over former Rep. Harry Garcia and former state Sen. Clemente Sanchez after a charade attempting to deem Rep. Garcia ineligible. He is a more moderate Democrat versus the progressive Ms. Garcia.

Garcia’s swearing-in ceremony is tentatively scheduled for Thursday, officially marking the beginning of her tenure in the New Mexico House of Representatives.

‘Justice and equity’: MLG taps 78-year-old progressive for vacant House seat Read More »

How DEI is lowering NM legal standards and putting justice at risk

15 Comments / Editorial, New Mexico, News, Politics / By

On Tuesday, the all-Democrat New Mexico Supreme Court issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within the judicial system. The Court framed its stance as a necessity for upholding justice, citing its duty to “eliminate barriers” and ensure “equal access” for all individuals, regardless of race, gender, or other demographic factors. While these ideals may sound noble, the actual implementation of DEI initiatives has proven to be deeply flawed, often undermining the very principles of equal justice and meritocracy that courts should uphold.

DEI: A Shift Away From Equal Justice

The core principle of the American legal system is that justice should be blind—meaning that every individual, regardless of their background, should be treated equally under the law. However, DEI inherently prioritizes group identity over individual merit. By emphasizing race, gender, and other identity markers in decision-making, DEI initiatives risk replacing the ideal of impartial justice with an ideological agenda.

For instance, the Supreme Court of New Mexico’s emphasis on inclusivity efforts directly conflicts with the core principle engraved above their own courtroom: “Equal Justice Under Law.” True equality before the law requires neutrality, not policies that introduce preferential treatment under the guise of “equity.”

Unintended Consequences: Lowering Standards and Promoting Division

One major flaw of DEI programs in the legal system is their impact on professional and educational standards. DEI-driven hiring and promotion policies in law schools, courts, and judicial appointments have been criticized for lowering qualifications in favor of demographic representation rather than competency. This diminishes public trust in the system and creates an environment where judges and legal professionals are perceived as political appointees rather than objective arbiters of the law.

Furthermore, DEI programs often foster resentment and division rather than unity. By continually emphasizing group identity over shared legal principles, such programs risk deepening societal fractures rather than healing them. Multiple studies have shown that workplaces and institutions with aggressive DEI policies often experience greater racial tension, as people are categorized based on identity rather than shared goals or common values.

Legal and Ethical Concerns: DEI vs. Federal Law

Additionally, some DEI mandates may directly conflict with federal anti-discrimination laws. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 explicitly prohibits discrimination based on race or gender in employment and education. Yet many DEI-driven policies—including hiring quotas, admissions preferences, and mandatory diversity training—operate in a way that explicitly prioritizes race and gender, often at the expense of others. This raises serious constitutional concerns and has led to increasing legal challenges against DEI programs nationwide.

Conclusion: A Dangerous Precedent in the Judiciary

While the New Mexico Supreme Court frames DEI as a tool for fairness, it is ultimately a departure from the foundational principles of American law. Instead of ensuring equal justice, DEI initiatives insert ideology into the judicial system, threatening fairness, public trust, and legal neutrality. If true equality is the goal, the judiciary should reject identity-based policies and uphold merit, fairness, and impartiality—values that are rapidly being eroded under the guise of “inclusion.”

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As all other NM congressional Dems back Haaland, Heinrich refuses

32 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

New Mexico Senator Martin Heinrich chose not to endorse former Interior Secretary Deb Haaland in her newly announced campaign for governor, making him the only federally elected Democrat from New Mexico to withhold support so far. His decision comes just weeks after he ruled out running for the position himself.

Haaland’s campaign launch on Tuesday sparked a wave of endorsements from the state’s Democrat congressional delegation. Senator Ben Ray Luján, along with Representatives Melanie Stansbury, Teresa Leger Fernandez, and Gabe Vasquez, all quickly voiced their support. Their backing solidified Haaland’s strong standing within New Mexico’s Democrat leadership. However, Heinrich, who has successfully won statewide office three times and holds considerable influence in the state, remains the only major Democratic figure yet to publicly endorse her.

During an interview with POLITICO’s E&E News, Heinrich did not clarify whether he intends to back Haaland’s candidacy, offering only a vague response when asked about his plans. “If I do, I’ll let you know,” he remarked, leaving the possibility open.

Heinrich’s decision to stay neutral at this stage is notable, given his leadership role as the top Democrat on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, a key position that shapes federal energy and environmental policy. His influence in New Mexico politics has grown significantly over the years, and an endorsement from him would carry considerable weight.

Haaland, who previously served as a U.S. representative before being appointed Interior Secretary by President Joe Biden, is making her bid for governor after her historic tenure as the first Native American to hold a cabinet-level position. Her candidacy quickly gained momentum with the backing of her former colleagues in Congress, reinforcing her ties to the state’s Democratic base.

Heinrich’s reluctance to immediately endorse her could suggest a variety of strategic considerations. He may be weighing other potential contenders in the race, assessing how Haaland’s campaign unfolds, or considering political dynamics within the state. His past decision to step aside from a gubernatorial run indicated that he was not seeking the office himself, but it remains unclear whether he will actively campaign for any candidate.

Given his track record of winning statewide elections and his seniority within the New Mexico delegation, Heinrich’s endorsement—or lack thereof—could influence the primary landscape. While he has not publicly opposed Haaland, his silence stands in contrast to the enthusiastic support she has received from the rest of the delegation.

As the gubernatorial race continues to take shape, Heinrich’s next moves will be closely watched. Whether he eventually endorses Haaland or remains on the sidelines, his decision could have implications for the party’s unity and the broader contest for New Mexico’s governorship.

As all other NM congressional Dems back Haaland, Heinrich refuses Read More »

Arrest warrants might just start flying at Dems in NM

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New Mexico’s Democrat elected officials may soon find themselves in legal jeopardy for obstructing federal law enforcement efforts to protect the nation’s borders. An internal memo from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) indicates that state and local officials who interfere with immigration enforcement could face criminal prosecution.

The document makes it clear that federal prosecutors are being instructed to identify and potentially charge those who “threaten to impede” federal immigration actions. This could mean serious legal consequences for public officials in sanctuary cities like Santa Fe and Albuquerque, where local authorities have actively refused to cooperate with immigration enforcement.

“It’s hard on people when there is an atmosphere of fear and unknown action,” said Alan Webber, the mayor of Santa Fe. However, his city’s policies of shielding illegal immigrants from federal enforcement may now carry serious legal risks.

Mayor Webber admitted, “I don’t know any mayor is in a position, including me, to say that we are going to refuse to comply with the law. But I don’t know if we are required to assist with things that go beyond our legal responsibilities.”

The DOJ’s directive raises serious questions about whether officials like Webber and Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller could be subject to arrest warrants for their defiance of federal law. Keller, in a statement, seemed to double down on resistance:

“As your Mayor, I was elected to lead our city, not work for Donald Trump… APD officers will continue to arrest violent and repeat offenders, regardless of immigration status.”

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham also weighed in, appearing to reject the DOJ’s position, stating, “I expect New Mexico’s public officials to uphold the Constitution and their duties under law, and not be swayed or intimidated by politically motivated threats.”

New Mexico’s Attorney General, Raúl Torrez, dismissed the DOJ’s warning, calling it a distortion of the law and an attack on state and local officials. His position raises further concerns about whether he and other high-ranking state officials could be complicit in efforts to obstruct federal immigration enforcement.

Sam Bregman, the district attorney for Bernalillo County, took an even more defiant stance, outright refusing to cooperate with federal immigration efforts:

“In my roles as District Attorney as well as the Chairman of the OCC, I will continue to vigorously work with all agencies to go after criminals in our state. However, I will in no way assist with the recent executive orders involving immigration.”

These statements, combined with the DOJ’s new directive, highlight the increasing legal risks facing New Mexico’s Democrat officials. If they continue to shield illegal immigrants and block federal law enforcement from carrying out its duty, they could very well find themselves facing warrants for their arrests. The coming weeks may determine whether New Mexico’s leadership chooses to comply with federal law or risk legal action for their defiance.

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Scandal-plagued Deb Haaland wants to be governor—But can NM afford her?

28 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

According to an Axios report, former U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland is reportedly preparing to announce her candidacy for governor of New Mexico, according to sources close to her campaign. Haaland, a former congresswoman, is said to be actively organizing a team of experienced political operatives both from New Mexico and nationally, with Scott Forrester, a seasoned campaign manager, expected to lead her efforts. The move suggests she is positioning herself as the Democratic frontrunner for the race, which will likely attract significant attention given her national profile.

This development comes on the heels of far-left Democrat Sen. Martin Heinrich’s decision to remain in the Senate rather than pursue the governorship, a choice that spares Haaland from a potentially contentious primary battle. 

Heinrich, who is widely regarded as a key figure in the state’s Democrat Party, recently received praise from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer for his decision to stay in Washington, where he is seen as a crucial ally for advancing Democratic priorities. Although Heinrich has chosen not to endorse a candidate for the governor’s race at this time, his decision clears a path for Haaland to consolidate support among Democrats, particularly within progressive circles, unless a dark horse Democrat candidate comes out to challenge Haaland.

Despite the enthusiasm from “progressive” groups, Haaland’s candidacy is already drawing criticism from conservative voices and skeptics who question her suitability for the role. During her time as Interior Secretary, Haaland faced intense scrutiny over her policies, particularly her aggressive push to restrict oil and gas production, a critical component of New Mexico’s economy. 

Many argue that her actions demonstrated a lack of understanding of the state’s economic realities, prioritizing ideological environmental policies over the livelihoods of countless New Mexicans who depend on the energy sector. Her approach alienated many in the state, including those who saw her tenure as a direct threat to their economic stability.

Moreover, her time at the Department of the Interior was marred by allegations of ethical missteps and a series of controversies that called into question her leadership capabilities. Critics argue that Haaland struggled to effectively manage the complexities of her role, with her tenure marked by delays, mismanagement, and what many perceived as poor decision-making. Concerns about her mental fitness have also surfaced, with detractors pointing to moments of apparent confusion and incoherent public statements as evidence that she may lack the clarity and focus necessary to lead a state as diverse and challenging as New Mexico.

While progressive organizations such as EMILYs List have publicly praised Haaland as a “35th-generation New Mexican” and a leader who can deliver results (unknown what those are), many New Mexicans remain unconvinced. 

Her candidacy will likely polarize voters, forcing them to weigh her progressive credentials and national profile against the controversies and doubts that have followed her political career.

Scandal-plagued Deb Haaland wants to be governor—But can NM afford her? Read More »

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