Abenicio Baldonado, host of The Chile Wire podcast, has expressed concerns regarding New Mexico's recent series of child deaths under the supervision of the Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD). Baldonado described these incidents as indicative of a "moral crisis" and also criticized state and national leaders for their perceived hypocrisy on issues such as gerrymandering, border security, and political speakers.
"We are failing our kids," said Baldonado. "If this isn't a public health crisis, it's a moral health crisis. What's not okay is gaslighting New Mexicans and people across the country to believe what the GOP is doing is wrong, when you have no moral high ground to stand on. Immigrants come here for the American dream."
The New Mexico CYFD has come under scrutiny following several child fatalities involving families it supervises. According to the Albuquerque Journal, an 18-month-old's death in August marked the sixth child fatality within four months in the state. Lawmakers have been debating reforms and resource allocation for CYFD; however, critics argue that policy changes have been slow to materialize.
New Mexico consistently ranks low in national child well-being indicators. The 2024 Annie E. Casey Foundation Kids Count Data Book placed the state at 50th overall for child well-being, citing high rates of child poverty (24%) and adverse childhood experiences. Metrics related to education, health, and family economic security all scored below national averages.
Gerrymandering remains a contentious issue across the United States. The Brennan Center for Justice reports that partisan redistricting in several states has significantly altered political representation by combining urban communities with distant rural areas whose interests may differ. Both Democratic and Republican-led states, including New Mexico and Texas, have faced criticism for this practice.
Baldonado is the creator and voice behind The Chile Wire podcast, which he brands as "Real News For Real New Mexicans." According to Apple Podcasts, he leads discussions on political commentary and analysis covering topics such as family policy, economic trends, and state governance to emphasize transparency and civic accountability.
