Stefani Lord, a House Representative from New Mexico, said that most Republicans did not oppose proposed gun control bills in committee and called for greater defense of constitutional rights. This statement was made on the social media platform X.
"Unbelievable," said Lord, New Mexico State Representative for 22nd District (R). "Rep. John Block and Senator Brantley were the only Republicans who spoke out against blatantly unconstitutional gun grab bills during the Crime & Criminal Justice interim committee. Where is everyone else? Come on, Republicans, DO BETTER!"
Recent gun control proposals in New Mexico have sparked intense debates within legislative committees. According to the Albuquerque Journal, Democrats have supported measures such as background checks and assault weapon bans, while Republicans argue these actions infringe upon constitutional rights. Most committee votes on gun bills have reportedly split along party lines.
The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that recent gun bills, including a 14-day waiting period and an assault weapon ban, passed out of committee on party-line votes, often by margins of 4–2 or 5–3. However, several of these bills ultimately stalled or failed during full House votes.
According to the Associated Press, Democrats in New Mexico have concentrated on expanding gun restrictions over the past two years. In contrast, Republicans have sought to broaden gun rights, frequently asserting that proposed controls would negatively impact lawful gun owners.
Lord has been serving as a Republican representative in the New Mexico House for District 22 since 2021. As noted by Ballotpedia, she is recognized for her advocacy of gun rights, opposition to red flag laws, and support for expanding concealed carry permissions.
