A recent opinion piece in the Santa Fe New Mexican challenges a statement made by New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham regarding child poverty rankings. The governor stated on MSNBC's Morning Joe that "New Mexico’s went from 50th to 17th on child poverty [in the nation]." This claim has been criticized as inaccurate.

Paul Gessing, president of the Rio Grande Foundation, argues that Governor Lujan Grisham is confusing two different measures of poverty: the U.S. Census Bureau’s traditional measure and its supplemental measure. According to Gessing, New Mexico remains at 50th in the traditional measure but performs better under the supplemental measure, which includes government benefits like free school meals and tax credits.

Gessing points out that while there have been slight improvements in New Mexico's supplemental poverty ranking, significant improvements in outcomes for children are lacking. He cites the Annie E. Casey “Kids Count” Index, which still places New Mexico last in terms of child well-being using traditional poverty data.

The opinion piece also highlights concerns about education outcomes in New Mexico. Despite recalculations showing improved economic conditions under the supplemental index, educational performance remains poor according to national assessments.

Gessing accuses Governor Lujan Grisham of using data manipulation for political gain rather than addressing underlying issues affecting children’s welfare. He notes that despite financial resources from oil and gas revenues, average citizens have not seen benefits, with predictions indicating a decline in youth population by 2040.

The article calls for legislative discussions based on accurate data during the upcoming session to address these challenges effectively.