Rebecca Dow, a New Mexico House representative, has expressed concerns about the importance of diverse viewpoints in public service. She said that recent actions by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham have undermined this balance. The statement was made on the social media platform X.
"A healthy commission isn't about echo chambers—it's about balance and diversity of thought," said Rebecca L. Dow, New Mexico State Representative for 38th District (R). "Balance isn't a constraint. It's a superpower—fueling legitimacy, innovation, and trust in public service. When members bring varied backgrounds and viewpoints, decisions become stronger, more equitable, and more resilient."
The dismissal of New Mexico Game Commissioner Jeremy Vesbach in 2023, due to his advocacy for endangered Mexican gray wolves, sparked criticism from conservation groups and legislators who viewed it as political retaliation. According to AP News, Governor Lujan Grisham’s office denied any connection between Vesbach's views and his firing. However, the incident left the commission without a quorum, which stalled wildlife decisions and led to legislative calls for reform.
The New Mexico State Game Commission is composed of seven members appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate, with no more than four members from the same political party. This structure aims to balance political affiliation and public stakeholder representation by including representatives of conservation and agriculture interests while reflecting geographic diversity.
In response to previous controversies, New Mexico passed SB5 in 2025, as reported by Governing. This legislation restructured the Game Commission into a newly named Department of Wildlife and established an independent nomination committee for commissioner appointments. The law also removed the governor’s power to fire commissioners without cause, aiming to shield wildlife policy from political interference.
Rebecca Dow is a Republican state representative serving New Mexico’s 38th District, which includes parts of Doña Ana, Sierra, and Socorro counties. According to Ballotpedia, she served from 2016 to 2022 and returned to the legislature in 2025. Dow has emphasized transparent governance and criticized executive overreach in public appointments, particularly concerning commissions affecting rural interests.
