Michelle Lujan Grisham

NM Reps. Block, Lord formally launch impeachment process against Gov. MLG

36 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

On Tuesday, State Representatives John Block (R-Alamogordo) and Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) officially initiated the process to impeach Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. The lawmakers introduced a certificate form for their colleagues in the State House and Senate to sign, signaling their call for an extraordinary session aimed at impeaching and removing the governor from office.

The impetus for this move arose from a recent controversial action by Lujan Grisham. She issued an order prohibiting law-abiding citizens from openly or concealed carrying firearms in Bernalillo County while simultaneously asserting that constitutional rights and her oath of office were not “absolute.” A federal judge promptly intervened, issuing a temporary restraining order (TRO) to halt the governor’s edict. Her actions were decried far and wide by both Republicans and Democrats.

“The U.S. Constitution is absolute and designed to protect the rights of the people against tyrannical decisions like Governor Lujan attempted to do,” declared Rep. Lord, highlighting the fundamental principles underpinning the impeachment proceedings.

The effort spearheaded by Representatives Block and Lord involves disseminating the certification form, tailored for both the House and Senate, to all 112 members of the Legislature. Each legislator will return their signed forms to Legislative Council Service Director Raul E. Burciaga.

In conjunction with this formal process, the two lawmakers launched a web page, ImpeachMLG.com, to galvanize New Mexicans to call for the governor’s resignation. The website empowers citizens to send emails to all Democratic state lawmakers, urging them to endorse the certificate form for an extraordinary impeachment session of the legislature. Furthermore, ImpeachMLG.com will serve as a record-keeping tool, tracking the lawmakers who defend constitutional principles by supporting the call for an impeachment session.

Rep. Block emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “We are taking formal steps for Gov. Lujan Grisham’s impeachment because her despotic actions violated her oath and put every single New Mexican in danger. We must nip this governor’s lawlessness in the bud, which is why we have led the charge since day one to see the governor impeached. We mustn’t fail in this effort, or else every petty tyrant across the land will use Lujan Grisham’s illegal actions as precedent to seize more power by trampling on Americans’ rights.”

The move by Reps. Block and Lord signals a critical juncture in New Mexico’s political landscape as the state grapples with balancing executive authority and individual liberties.

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ABQ Journal scorches ‘self-absorbed’ Lujan Grisham in scathing editorial

54 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In a scathing Albuquerque Journal editorial, the newspaper’s editorial board pulled no punches in its assessment of New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s recent decisions. The article begins with a nod to Kenny Rogers’ timeless advice about knowing when to fold, an allusion that sets the stage for a blistering critique of the governor’s approach to crime and her controversial gun ban.

The governor’s unilateral decision on September 8th to impose a wide-ranging gun ban across Bernalillo County initially sparked controversy, with New Mexicans rightly decrying it as a flagrant violation of Second Amendment rights. In response to the national backlash and a federal judge’s restraining order, Gov. Lujan Grisham revised her public health order to limit the gun ban’s scope to “public parks and playgrounds” in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County — still a violation of Second Amendment rights.

However, the Albuquerque Journal editorial board argues that this move was too little, too late. They point out that the governor’s decision to backtrack came only after widespread opposition and legal challenges, questioning her original intent and decision-making process.

One of the op-ed’s key points is the governor’s failure to address the pressing issue of rising crime rates in the state. The editorial board highlights that, during the 2023 legislative session, Democratic majorities in the state House and Senate rejected numerous crime-fighting proposals, many of which had bipartisan support. These proposals aimed to enhance public safety by addressing issues like pretrial detention, bail conditions, and sentencing for violent offenders.

The board criticizes the governor’s reluctance to call a special legislative session to address these urgent concerns, even as House Republicans called for action on the crime bills that had been shot down during the regular session. They argue that Gov. Lujan Grisham’s inaction raises questions about her commitment to combatting crime effectively and her ability to lead bipartisan efforts to address the issue.

The op-ed contends that the governor’s preference for going it alone, as seen in her handling of the gun ban and other matters, undermines her credibility and effectiveness. It suggests that Gov. Lujan Grisham is too partisan, self-absorbed, and politically ambitious to engage in the kind of bipartisan problem-solving that New Mexico needs.

“Lujan Grisham can’t be relied upon to lead a crime-fighting effort. She’s too partisan, too unpopular with state lawmakers, too self-absorbed, too interested in scoring political points, too discredited now on the national stage after her unconstitutional overreach, and too politically ambitious on a national level to shape solid bipartisan solutions that could really make a difference here in New Mexico,” wrote the board.

The editorial concludes with a call to action for lawmakers from both parties to convene an extraordinary session on crime, even if the governor is not on board. The editorial board questions whether legislators have the will to fulfill their responsibilities and override any potential veto by the governor in the next regular session.

The Journal piece also highlights the growing dissent from law enforcement officials, with several sheriffs and a district attorney publicly expressing their unwillingness to enforce or support the gun ban. This added layer of opposition, including skepticism from a CNN interview, underscores the widespread concerns surrounding the governor’s decisions.

In a state grappling with escalating crime rates and constitutional debates, the Albuquerque Journal’s editorial serves as a powerful critique of Gov. Lujan Grisham’s leadership and decision-making, challenging her to reconsider her approach and engage with lawmakers to address the pressing issue of crime in New Mexico.

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Protecting our Constitution from tyranny on Constitution Day

20 Comments / Opinion / By

As we celebrate Constitution Day, we are reminded of the enduring wisdom enshrined in this venerable document — a wisdom that has guided our nation through its most challenging moments. Our Constitution, born from the crucible of liberty, represents the embodiment of our Founding Fathers’ vision: a government of, by, and for the people, firmly grounded in the protection of individual rights.

Yet, on this Constitution Day, our Constitution finds itself under an unprecedented threat right here in New Mexico, where Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s wildly illegal executive order—even in its now-edited form — has stripped away the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens. This egregious overreach is not only an affront to our Constitution but also to the oath Governor Lujan Grisham took to uphold it.

Governor Lujan Grisham’s claim that no Constitutional right is “absolute” should send shivers down the spines of all Americans who value their liberties. It is a dangerous assertion that reveals a concerning disregard for the fundamental principles on which our nation was built. Our Founders understood the importance of protecting these rights as bedrock principles, not mere privileges subject to the whims of government officials. Our rights cannot be signed away by the stroke of a pen.

The Second Amendment, like all constitutional rights, is not a suggestion; it is a right expressly guaranteed to the people. It is the safeguard against tyranny and the assurance of our ability to protect ourselves and our loved ones. The lawless governor’s actions undermine the very essence of our Constitution, and it is our duty to defend it.

State Rep. Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) and I are tirelessly working to impeach Gov. Lujan Grisham for her unconstitutional actions. Our efforts should be a beacon of hope for anyone who cherishes the Constitution and the rights it protects. We stand at the threshold of a critical moment where the fate of our Constitution hangs in the balance. Only We The People can protect it.

Now is the time for all lovers of liberty, regardless of party affiliation, to rally behind us and our pursuit of justice. The Constitution is not a partisan document; it is the foundation of our nation, and its preservation is our shared responsibility.

On this Constitution Day, let us recommit ourselves to the timeless principles enshrined in our Constitution. Let us remember that our rights are not subject to the whims of any politician. And let us stand united in support of impeachment efforts against Gov. Lujan Grisham, for the defense of our Constitution is a cause that transcends politics—it is the very essence of our American identity.

To help Rep. Lord and me in this fight, please help our efforts by supporting me here and Rep. Lord here. More information on our impeachment efforts will be released this next week.

John Block is the founder and editor of the Piñon Post and is the state representative for New Mexico’s 51st House District in Otero County. John has fought for years for New Mexicans’ constitutional rights and is the primary sponsor of New Mexico’s Constitutional Carry legislation.

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Thief snatches beloved Virgin Mary statue from ABQ church

6 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

In an act of pure evil that has left hundreds of parishioners heartbroken, a beloved decades-old statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary has vanished from St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The theft of this cherished five-foot statue, which had warmly greeted churchgoers for years, occurred back in August. It was reported when a church member witnessed a vehicle performing donuts in the church’s parking lot.

Now, all that remains in place of the statue is a simple wire outline, a poignant reminder of its absence. The church promptly filed a police report in the hope of recovering the stolen statue, but the initial response from law enforcement offered limited prospects for its return, according to KRQE News 13.

St. Anne’s Associate Pastor Benjamin Maes expressed the church’s frustration, saying, “The police came, and there was a report filed at that time; there was really nothing they could do, they said, but to ask around and to ask our community.” However, the incident did lead to an increased police presence in the area.

The statue of the Virgin Mary held great sentimental value for the congregation and was created by artist Felix Pedroncelli in 1999, fashioned from metal and fiber cement. It had graced the church’s front steps since its creation. Pedroncelli, who had earlier crafted a similar smaller statue for another part of the church, is deeply saddened by the theft but has pledged to create a new statue if the church requires one.

Pedroncelli shared his sentiments, saying, “Whatever I make, I donate them to people; It’s just my joy seeing somebody happy.” He hopes that the stolen statue can be returned, sparing him from having to create a new one. However, if it has been damaged or destroyed, he stands ready to repair and reinstall it for the church and its faithful congregation.

This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the challenges facing communities, including instances of theft and vandalism, and underscores the need for vigilance and community support. Albuquerque, in particular, has faced high crime rates under Democrat city and state leadership, with concerns about public safety remaining at the forefront of local discussions.

Recent unconstitutional actions by anti-gun Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham to disarm Bernalillo County citizens were struck down this week by a Joe Biden-appointed federal judge, but the governor reinstated the order for parks and many public places in direct defiance of the temporary restraining order granted by the judge. 

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Lujan Grisham calls presser to change unconstitutional order, bash GOP

58 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

On Friday, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham called a press conference in Bernalillo County, where she attacked Republicans critical of her unconstitutional orders while announcing she is changing the public health order released last Friday.

The move came one week after she signed an illegal order to unilaterally usurp New Mexicans’ gun rights, where she said no rights and even her oath are not “absolute.”

On Wednesday, a Joe Biden-appointed federal judge struck down her order.

The Santa Fe New Mexican reported on the conference:

But, she said at the news conference, “We have removed the requirement that open and concealed carry cannot occur until the public health order has been removed or extended anywhere in the city.”

She added the ban on carrying firearms, open or concealed, will remain in place at parks and playgrounds where families and children gather. 

Lujan Grisham acknowledged last week the gun ban would face legal challenges. Most recently, the National Rifle Association and Republican lawmakers in New Mexico filed a lawsuit Thursday in the state Supreme Court. 

Watch live:

This is a developing story…

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Amid lawsuits and impeachment calls, Lujan Grisham leaving for Taiwan trip

63 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Late Thursday, far-left Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s office announced the governor would be traveling to Tawain to “lead a business and trade mission,” departing Sunday. She will “participate in U.S. Business Day and meet with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen, Minister of Economic Affairs Wang Mei-hua and manufacturing companies interested in locating to the state,” according to the release.

“New Mexico has the ideal economic climate to attract global businesses, including in Asia,” said Lujan Grisham. “I see great potential to strengthen the partnerships we have already established in Taiwan, bringing continued stability and economic opportunity to all our citizens.”

“Since 2019, the state Economic Development Department has opened a foreign trade office in Taipei and several Asian companies have chosen to expand to New Mexico for its logistical proximity to North American customers and excellent transportation infrastructure, providing for a more robust and resilient supply chain. In August, Singapore-based Maxeon Technologies announced it would locate the only solar panel manufacturing plant in the United States in Albuquerque. Taiwan-based Admiral Cable and label-printing company Cymmetrik have expanded to Santa Teresa in the last several years,” the release continued.

The news comes as Lujan Grisham faces increasing calls for her impeachment, led by state Reps. Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) and John Block (R-Alamogordo), and a flurry of lawsuits against her anti-gun order that banned gun possession — concealed or open carry — in Bernalillo County for thirty days. 

A Joe Biden-appointed federal judge swiftly shot down the order on Wednesday, citing its blatant unconstitutionality. During her announcement of the order, Lujan Grisham claimed New Mexicans’ rights and her oath of office are not “absolute.” 

According to Lujan Grisham’s office, “The Governor will travel with an official delegation which includes Chief of Staff Daniel Schlegel, Director of Communications Maddy Hayden, Senior Advisor for Global Trade & Infrastructure Joseph De La Rosa, former Economic Development Department Secretary Alicia J. Keyes, New Mexico Partnership President Melinda Allen, and President and CEO of the Mesilla Valley Economic Development Alliance Davin Lopez. Ethan Chen, the New Mexico Economic Development Department’s foreign trade representative in Taipei, will assist the delegation.”

Leftist NM columnist desperately tries to shield Lujan Grisham from impeachment

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U.S. House GOP moves to condemn gun-grabbing Gov. MLG over illegal order

8 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

A substantial coalition of House Republicans, spearheaded by Representative Dan Newhouse of Washington, has introduced a resolution on Thursday aimed at condemning the actions of Democratic Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico regarding her recently blocked ban on carrying firearms.

The GOP resolution is a response to Governor Grisham’s emergency order, which suspended both concealed and open carry of firearms in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Bernalillo County for a minimum of 30 days. This move has drawn criticism from Republicans, some Democrats, and Second Amendment advocates, who argue that it infringes upon the constitutional rights of Americans.

Rep. Newhouse expressed his concerns, stating, “The shocking move from Governor Grisham is a blatant subversion of the U.S. Constitution and a violation of her oath of office while she deprives the citizens of New Mexico of their right to bear arms. The Governor’s action should send a chill up every American’s spine as it strips away the protection of individual rights and freedom, which sets a dangerous precedent for the rights of Central Washingtonians and Americans across our nation. I’m proud to lead this resolution to condemn the Governor’s actions and I call on her to rescind her order immediately.”

Over 50 Republicans have joined Rep. Newhouse in introducing this resolution, including prominent figures like GOP Majority Leader Steve Scalise, GOP Whip Tom Emmer, GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik, and GOP Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler, among others.

The National Rifle Association (NRA) and the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) have also endorsed the resolution, with NSSF senior vice president Lawrence Keane remarking, “The order is Constitutionally baseless, and there are no laws or regulations giving the state’s Regulation and Licensing Department authority to inspect federally licensed firearm retailers. By falsely declaring a rise in crime as a public health emergency and suspending the rights of the law-abiding people of New Mexico, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham is proving her contempt for the U.S. Bill of Rights, New Mexico’s Constitution, her oath of office and the voters of New Mexico. NSSF appreciates Congressman Newhouse’s leadership in pushing back against this blatant and unconstitutional power grab and joins him in this fight.”

Governor Grisham’s emergency order was issued in response to recent gun-related deaths in New Mexico, including the tragic killing of an 11-year-old boy outside a minor league baseball stadium. However, the order has faced substantial opposition since its issuance.

Rep. Newhouse’s resolution condemns Governor Grisham for “subverting the Second Amendment of the Constitution and depriving the citizens of New Mexico of their right to bear arms.” It also highlights that the order imposes fines and civil penalties on New Mexico citizens who exercise their Second Amendment rights, while directing local law enforcement to apprehend violators.

The resolution emphasizes the absolute nature of rights secured by the Constitution and argues that any attempt by a Governor to strip citizens of their rights deserves condemnation from Congress.

Furthermore, the resolution quotes several Supreme Court cases affirming the Second Amendment and references Governor Grisham’s statement that no constitutional right, in her view, “is intended to be absolute.”

This resolution comes after a federal judge in Albuquerque issued a temporary restraining order blocking key elements of Governor Grisham’s executive order. U.S. District Court Judge David Urias issued the order, which prohibits the enforcement of the portion of the order that restricts lawful gun owners from carrying their firearms in public for 30 days.

Judge Urias, during the court hearing, emphasized that the violation of a constitutional right, even for brief periods, constitutes irreparable harm. The temporary restraining order will remain in effect until at least October 3, the date of the next hearing.

U.S. House GOP moves to condemn gun-grabbing Gov. MLG over illegal order Read More »

Judge swiftly smacks down MLG’s unconstitutional gun ban

19 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

On Wednesday, far-left Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s anti-gun order on Bernalillo County residents was swiftly smacked down by a federal judge.

U.S. District Judge David Urias issued this ruling on Wednesday, which represents a setback for Democrat Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s efforts to address a series of recent shootings, including the tragic death of an 11-year-old boy leaving a minor league baseball game in Albuquerque.

The far-left governor issued an emergency public health order last Friday, suspending the right to openly or concealed carry firearms in public areas, a measure rooted in a specific threshold of violent crime statistics primarily observed in Albuquerque and its surrounding areas. The governor cited recent incidents of shootings across the state, particularly those involving the loss of young lives, as the impetus for this action. Nevertheless, she acknowledged that criminals might disregard the order.

Those found in violation of this order could have faced civil penalties and fines of up to $5,000, enforced by the New Mexico State Police. However, the local sheriff and Albuquerque’s police chief had chosen not to enforce the order.

Advocates for gun rights launched a barrage of legal challenges against the order in the U.S. District Court in Albuquerque, alleging that it infringed upon their civil rights protected by the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

In response to these developments, Republican lawmakers have called for impeachment proceedings against the governor. This marks another instance of Governor Lujan Grisham testing the boundaries of her executive authority, reminiscent of her prior use of public health orders to implement stringent lockdown measures during the initial stages of the COVID pandemic.

Democrat state Sen. Joseph Cervantes of Las Cruces, the chairman of the powerful Senate Judiciary Committee, responded, “Federal Judge Urias predictably enters a restraining order precluding recognition of the Governor’s gun ban. Senate Judiciary has recognized even well intended gun laws must comply with the constitution to serve any purpose; and has dealt with those efforts accordingly.”

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Leftist NM columnist desperately tries to shield Lujan Grisham from impeachment

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The Santa Fe New Mexican’s Milan Simonich tried to shield far-left anti-gun Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham from calls for her impeachment.

Impeachment calls came from Reps. Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) and John Block (R-Alamogordo), who are currently working on articles of impeachment against the governor following her order “suspending” law-abiding Bernalillo County citizens’ rights to keep and bear arms for 30 days. The governor claimed all rights; even her oath is not “absolute.”

Bipartisan fury has come out against her edict, especially from members of her own party, including at least seven legislative members so far, including state Sen. Joseph Cervantes (D-Las Cruces), who chairs the powerful Senate Judiciary Committee and the interim Legislative Courts, Corrections, and Justice Committee.

Other leftists jumping ship from Lujan Grisham on this include U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, U.S. Rep. Ted Lieu of California, rabid anti-gun activist David Hogg, the American Civil Liberties Union, and entrepreneur Elon Musk, among others. 

Democrat Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen is refusing to enforce her order, along with Albuquerque Police, under the direction of Democrat Mayor Tim Keller.

State Attorney General Raúl Torrezl issued a letter to Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham Tuesday, telling her he refuses to represent her in court cases regarding her unconstitutional order.

Impeachment a “waste of time,” claimed the leftist New Mexican columnist, calling holding the governor accountable for infringing upon New Mexicans’ rights “political theater.”

“Talk of overturning the result of a statewide election that occurred only 10 months ago is going nowhere. Lord and Block advocate a hanging offense for a governor who made a poor decision,” Simonich added. 

What the governor did — to suspend state and federal constitutional rights — was arguably more than just a “poor decision.” 

“The Republicans’ punitive approach is unreasonable. Even if it were sensible, Lujan Grisham would be safe,” he claims, completely ignoring all the legislators from both sides of the aisle blasting the governor and her unconstitutional edict.

As proof of the supposed unreasonableness of impeaching a governor who broke her oath, he quoted state Rep. Jim Townsend (R-Artesia), who told him, “It is mathematically and politically impossible.”

Six Democrats have already opposed the governor’s mandate in the House. If all of those in opposition and just six more join to impeach the governor, which is entirely possible given the politically cancerous executive order, the governor will be impeached. These more moderate Democrats are the reason most of the extreme anti-gun laws haven’t been enacted in the state due to the lack of support from a majority of members. 

Impeachment remains a very real option to hold the governor accountable, and each day, more people support the idea in the Land of Enchantment.

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AG Torrez delivers devastating blow to anti-gun Gov. Lujan Grisham

36 Comments / New Mexico, News, Politics / By

Left-wing Democrat Attorney General Raúl Torrez issued a letter to Democrat Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham Tuesday, telling her that he is refusing to represent her in court cases regarding her unconstitutional order to unilaterally ban gun possession in Bernalillo County for thirty days.

Torrez wrote in a letter, “I do not believe that the Emergency Order will have any meaningful impact on public safety…I do not believe it passes constitutional muster.”

“I believe it is unwise to stretch the definition of a ‘public health emergency’ to encompass something that is fundamentally a public safety issue,” Torrez concluded.

The devastating news for Lujan Grisham comes after six Democrats in the state legislature signed a letter telling the governor to rescind her unconstitutional edict, while state Sen. Joseph Cervantes did as well on his X account.

Other leftists jumping ship from Lujan Grisham on this include U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, U.S. Rep. Ted Lieu of California, rabid anti-gun activist David Hogg, the American Civil Liberties Union, and entrepreneur Elon Musk, among others. 

Democrat Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen is refusing to enforce her order, along with Albuquerque Police, under the direction of Democrat Mayor Tim Keller.

State Reps. Stefani Lord (R-Sandia Park) and John Block (R-Alamogordo) are currently working on impeachment articles against the governor, who called constitutional rights and her oath of office not “absolute.”

AG Torrez delivers devastating blow to anti-gun Gov. Lujan Grisham Read More »

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