John Block, a House Representative from New Mexico, said that no Republicans supported the governor's $30 million food aid plan during the special session. He rejected claims of bipartisan backing, making this statement on X.
"She says “In New Mexico, Republicans joined us," said JOHN BLOCK, New Mexico State Representative for 51st District (R). "Fact check: Nope. We didn't. Not a single Republican voted for this during the failed special session! You're the reason it's closed. YOU."
According to the New Mexico Governor’s Office, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham called a special session on November 10, 2025, to extend state food assistance following her October 29 release of $30 million in Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) top-ups. The package was processed through House Bill 1 (HB1), with leaders publicly citing bipartisan support to "ensure our families have the food assistance they need." Sponsors and appropriations leads included House and Senate budget writers, emphasizing speed and cross-party backing.
The New Mexico Legislature reported that official roll calls from the 2025 First Special Session show HB1’s final passage in the House at 43–24. The Senate's final passage roll confirmed it passed as well, indicating cross-party support in both chambers. These PDFs constitute the authoritative vote record for the food-aid measure.
The Governor’s Office explained that New Mexico typically receives $80–$90 million per month in federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The state's $30 million allocation equals roughly one-third of an average month and is intended to bridge early-November gaps. This sizing clarifies the stopgap nature of the special-session plan.
According to the New Mexico Legislature, John Block is a Republican representing House District 51 (Otero County) since January 1, 2023. He serves as Ranking Member on the House Government, Elections & Indian Affairs Committee and sits on Consumer & Public Affairs. His public work focuses on fiscal restraint and oversight in budgeting and social programs.
