Leadership Albuquerque participants recently experienced a comprehensive tour of government operations in New Mexico. On February 19, the group visited various state institutions as part of "Government Day," an initiative aimed at providing insight into different governmental perspectives.

The day commenced with a visit to the Governor's Office and included stops at the Legislative Finance Committee, the New Mexico Supreme Court, and Santa Fe City Council Chambers. David Campbell, chair of Leadership Albuquerque and executive director of Lobo Development Corp., outlined the day's objective: "Our time together will take us to five different locations and allow us to hear from top leaders in the state legislative, executive and judicial branches – as well as from Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber, who will provide an important local government perspective."

Scott Darnell, director of Leadership Albuquerque, offered preliminary information during their journey north. The first engagement was with Charles Sallee from the Legislative Finance Committee, discussing New Mexico's budget surplus. Jeremy Oswald highlighted that this program explored unprecedented revenues due to oil and gas production.

The group also visited Supreme Court Chambers where Justice Michael E. Vigil discussed court responsibilities. Vigil has served on the court since 2018 and was chief justice from 2020 to 2022.

Later, Dan Schlegel, chief of staff to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, met with participants in the Cabinet Room alongside Terri Cole from GACC. The session focused on gubernatorial priorities and office structure.

During lunch, a panel featuring Joe Thompson, JD Bullington, and Rikki-Lee Chavez provided insights into lobbying roles within state government. Participants then observed legislative proceedings firsthand before heading to Santa Fe City Hall for a presentation by Mayor Alan Webber on municipal leadership challenges.

Concluding their day was a discussion led by Dan Boyd of the Journal Capitol Bureau about media-government interactions in policymaking reporting. Campbell noted Boyd's extensive experience: "Dan is one of the most experienced government beat reporters in New Mexico."

The event concluded with gratitude expressed towards all involved for facilitating an informative day.