A recent poll commissioned by the New Mexico Business Coalition reveals significant concerns among New Mexicans during the current legislative session. The survey highlights pressing issues such as crime, taxes, and border security, reflecting the public's desire for effective action from their legislators.

Crime emerges as a primary concern across all demographics in the state. Residents are advocating for stricter enforcement and harsher penalties for repeat offenders and theft. Despite this, several bills aimed at tackling crime have been postponed by lawmakers. Carla Sonntag, president and CEO of the New Mexico Business Coalition, expressed frustration over this situation: “People are tired of the out-of-control crime in this state and living in fear. They don’t want any more excuses from legislators; they want solutions.”

Taxation is another key issue identified by respondents. Seventy percent support repealing the state income tax; however, House Bill 275, which proposes eliminating personal income tax, has also been tabled.

Furthermore, border security remains a priority for many residents. Ninety percent of those surveyed believe measures should be taken to prevent drugs, gangs, and human traffickers from entering New Mexico through its southern border. Nonetheless, Senate Bill 36 was recently passed by the Senate. This bill prevents state agencies like the Motor Vehicle Division from sharing information with federal law enforcement regarding illegal immigrants.

Sonntag criticized legislators' actions during this session: “The problem with what we’re seeing in this legislative session is that many legislators are completely out of touch with what New Mexicans want and need.” She hopes that lawmakers will consider these poll results seriously and address the state's needs rather than pursuing personal agendas.

The poll was conducted between January 31 and February 6, 2025. It involved online surveys sent via SMS to a randomly selected group of 541 registered voters in New Mexico. The sample was demographically proportionate to represent the state's population accurately. The survey has a margin of error of ±4.213% with a confidence level of 95%.