In New Mexico, crime has become more than a statistic—it has become a daily reality for families, businesses, and entire communities. The most heartbreaking part of this crisis is that it’s not inevitable. Crime is a choice, yes—but so is how we choose to respond to it. Unfortunately, Democrat state leaders have made the choice to put politics ahead of the safety of New Mexicans.
We know solutions exist. Time and again, increasing the presence of officers and law enforcement on the streets has proven effective in reducing crime. Bringing in the National Guard to serve in law enforcement roles has worked in other states and can work here. Additional boots on the ground make a difference. Criminals think twice when they see a visible, organized, and determined presence of law enforcement standing with our communities.
The governor recently called in the National Guard to Albuquerque, but in a way that fell short. By not fully utilizing the National Guard members who are already part of the law enforcement division, New Mexico missed an opportunity to maximize their skillset and support. Simply put, we didn’t take advantage of the resources already at our disposal. The mere presence of the Guard provides long overdue support to our overwhelmed law enforcement officers, but the potential goes far beyond that.
What frustrates me most is that this should not be about politics—it should be about saving lives and protecting our communities. Instead, Democrat leaders in New Mexico have made a deliberate choice to play politics with public safety. They would rather hold on to power than work with President Trump and his administration to combat crime. Their calculation is clear: they don’t want to risk President Trump getting credit for improving safety in our state.
Let me be clear: I don’t care who gets the credit. I care about safer streets for the people of New Mexico. If working with the president—any president—helps us crack down on violent crime, then that’s what we should be doing. Period.
New Mexicans deserve leadership that puts them first. We deserve a government that values lives over political points, safety over partisanship. Until we make that shift, our families and communities will continue to pay the price for the choices our leaders are making.
It’s time to make a different choice—one that finally puts New Mexicans’ safety above politics. The ballot box is where our voices are heard the loudest. It’s time for New Mexicans to speak boldly at the ballot box and choose a new direction for our state—one that puts safety, families, and our future first.
Amy Barela is the Chairwoman of the Republican Party of New Mexico.
