Once again, New Mexicans are being forced to watch political theater instead of seeing their real problems addressed. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has called yet another special session, framing it as a response to federal budget cuts. But a closer look reveals this is less about solving urgent crises and more about advancing a progressive wish list while pointing fingers at Washington, all while ignoring the emergencies New Mexicans face every day.
In her press release, the Governor and Democratic leaders repeatedly invoked President Trump and the “radical right” as scapegoats. That rhetoric might energize her base, but it does nothing for families struggling with violent crime, a collapsing healthcare system, or a failing CYFD. Instead of taking responsibility for what’s broken in Santa Fe, the Governor is deflecting blame and staging yet another round of political theater.
Look at what the Governor says this session will cover: new insurance subsidies, funding for public broadcasting, and Medicaid provisions that won’t take effect until 2027. What’s missing? A plan to address rampant juvenile crime. Accountability for children dying in state custody. A solution for the rapid loss of doctors. These are the real emergencies New Mexicans are living through right now, and they’re nowhere on her agenda.
It has become clear that progressive Democrats in the Legislature set the agenda for the Governor’s Office. Even after declaring a crime emergency and authorizing the National Guard in Albuquerque and Española, the Governor has refused to include meaningful crime legislation in this special session. Rather than lead, she is getting in line with radical progressives in the Legislature.
House Republicans are committed to real solutions. That means addressing the root causes of New Mexico’s healthcare collapse. This starts with reforming malpractice laws that put trial lawyers ahead of providers and patients. Doctors have no issue being held accountable, but the current system bars them from providing even the most basic care that New Mexicans deserve. It also means joining the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact to bring more doctors into our state and expand access to care.
New Mexicans deserve a Legislature that puts their needs first, not one that hides behind national politics while ignoring crises at home. If the Governor truly wanted to solve problems, this special session would be about saving lives, keeping hospitals open, and protecting vulnerable children.
Until then, Republicans will continue fighting for meaningful reforms because New Mexico cannot afford another session of smoke and mirrors.
Gail Armstrong represents House District 49 and serves as the New Mexico House of Representatives Republican Leader.
