Deb Haaland, former U.S. Secretary of the Interior and a prominent political figure in New Mexico, has recently posted a series of tweets addressing issues affecting rural communities and local businesses in her state.
On August 20, 2025, Haaland emphasized the importance of public radio for remote areas: "Rural and Tribal areas across NM tune in to public radio for public safety info, news, educational programming, and updates in their native languages, but the cuts coming from the Trump Administration puts all of that at risk. As governor, I will support and defend public media." In this statement, she expressed concern over potential federal funding reductions for public broadcasting services under the Trump Administration.
Later that day, Haaland highlighted economic challenges faced by small business owners due to federal trade policies. On August 20, 2025 she tweeted: "I visited Picacho Coffee Roasters in Las Cruces, and the owner shared that they are feeling the harsh impacts of tariffs. These entrepreneurs face ridiculous taxes thanks to Trump's tariffs, and it's harming coffee roasters across New Mexico. Grateful to Ben Ray Lújan for". In this post, she referenced conversations with local entrepreneurs who reported difficulties caused by tariff-related tax increases.
The following day on August 21, 2025 Haaland made a lighter post about local cuisine: "It's green chile season! If you missed buying my homemade salsa, try the recipe for yourself! Donate here and get my recipe sent to you https://t.co/6pPP3sgtGZ https://t.co/NcDpsj0cln".
Public radio plays an essential role in delivering critical information—such as emergency alerts and educational content—to rural communities where internet access may be limited or unreliable. For many Native American populations in New Mexico, broadcasts provided in indigenous languages are often one of the few accessible sources for timely updates.
Trade policies like tariffs have been controversial among small business owners nationwide; many report increased costs when importing goods such as coffee beans or equipment needed for production. These expenses can affect both profit margins and consumer prices within local economies.
Ben Ray Luján is a U.S. Senator from New Mexico who has advocated on behalf of small businesses affected by changing trade policy frameworks at the national level.
