New Mexico State Senator Anthony "Ant" Thornton expressed skepticism regarding U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury's remarks on inflation and the GOP's debt ceiling plan. In a post on X dated February 15, Thornton questioned, "Is she serious?" He argued that inflation figures are based on year-over-year prices, indicating an increase under the Biden administration. Thornton suggested that those opposing the approach might have undisclosed motives.
"Is she serious," said Thornton. "Inflation numbers are based on year over year prices. Which means the higher inflation numbers occurred under the Biden administration. The Trump administration is discovering where the waste, fraud, and abuse is occurring… they can then correct the system where needed."
According to the post, Stansbury addressed several issues during a speech in the Oversight Committee, including inflation, the debt ceiling, and potential tax breaks for wealthy individuals. She also discussed the stock market and Republicans' plans to raise the debt ceiling while offering tax cuts to billionaires. Additionally, Stansbury invited Elon Musk to testify before the committee to address his role in these matters.
Screenshot of State Senator Ant Thornton's Feb. 15 post on X
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CNN reported on February 12 that U.S. inflation reached 3% for the first time since June 2024, with consumer prices rising by 0.5% since December. This results in an annual inflation rate of 3% for the 12 months ending in January. Among notable price increases, egg prices soared by 15.2% from December and 53% year-over-year, contributing significantly to a general rise in grocery prices.
Stansbury also discussed a budget proposal released by House Republicans that includes $4.5 trillion in tax cuts and a $4 trillion increase in the debt ceiling. According to an Associated Press report dated February 12, this plan directs House committees to reduce spending by $1.5 trillion with an overall goal of cutting $2 trillion. The proposal outlines specific cuts from various committees over the next decade.
Thornton is a Republican aerospace engineer from Bernalillo County who was elected in 2024 to represent Senate District 19, succeeding Dr. Gregg Schmedes. His campaign emphasized technological innovation and economic diversification, earning him recognition for his contributions to the aerospace industry and community involvement.
