Senator Ant Thornton of New Mexico has expressed skepticism regarding Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's call for a special session on immigration detention, suggesting it may be politically motivated. Thornton questioned the potential impact on federal contracts in a statement made on X.
"Does Governor MLG really want to go down the path of showcasing her affection for criminal illegal foreigners being detained so that I.C.E. can perform its immigration duties," said Anthony Linn Thornton, New Mexico State Senator from 198th District (R). "Many of these local private jail facilities have contracts with the federal government and receive significant federal funding for their efforts in housing these offenders. Trump Derangement Syndrome (TDS) is not a reason to call a Special Session. Does she really want to raise the ire of Homeland Security Secretary Tom Homan and President Trump?"
Governor Lujan Grisham has scheduled a special session for 2025, focusing on public safety and border security. According to the Albuquerque Journal, this move underscores New Mexico’s significant role as a site for federal immigration detention amidst ongoing debates over state and federal responsibilities.
The Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse reports that New Mexico hosts at least three major federal immigration detention centers under contracts with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These centers receive millions of dollars in federal funding annually, benefiting local governments and private operators.
The Santa Fe New Mexican notes that previous special sessions in New Mexico addressing immigration or public safety, such as those held in 2019 and 2023, have yielded mixed outcomes. Some sessions resulted in new border measures, while others concluded without substantial legislative changes.
Thornton, according to Ballotpedia, is a Republican State Senator representing District 19 since 2025. With a background as an aerospace executive and Navy officer, he has consistently advocated for stronger border security and enhanced cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
