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Vasquez declines KOB 4 debate; Herrell commits to attending
Roundhouse

Democratic Representative Gabe Vasquez has opted not to participate in the upcoming KOB 4 debate scheduled for October 16, where he was expected to face his Republican challenger, Yvette Herrell. The decision comes as a point of contention, with Herrell emphasizing the importance of such debates for voter engagement and informed decision-making.


Edward Garcia resigns from NM State Game Commission amid ongoing commissioner turnover
Roundhouse

Edward Garcia has stepped down from his role as a member of the New Mexico State Game Commission.


Interfaith groups push for fossil-free retirement investment options
Roundhouse

American workers invest substantial amounts in retirement funds, typically through employer-sponsored 401(k) and 403(b) plans. These plans often have significant investments in fossil fuels. A dilemma arises for people of faith who wish to align their investments with their moral values of protecting vulnerable communities and being responsible stewards of the Earth.


Home electrification reduces costs and improves air quality
Roundhouse

Electrifying homes is a topic gaining attention, as it promises to cut energy bills, improve indoor air quality, and decrease climate pollution. A video provided by 350 New Mexico highlights the benefits of home electrification. It features real homeowners sharing their experiences with new tax credits and rebates that make heat pump installations and other electrification upgrades more affordable.


New Mexico Republican party names J.D. Vance winner of Vice Presidential debate against Tim Walz
Roundhouse

Republican Ohio Senator J.D. Vance faced Democratic Minnesota Governor Tim Walz during the first Vice Presidential debate, held in Albuquerque on October 1.


Webinar explores ethical implications of rising demand for transitional minerals
Roundhouse

Amid the ongoing shift from fossil fuels to alternative energy sources, the demand for transitional minerals is on the rise. This situation poses significant questions about mining practices, particularly on Indigenous lands. A recent webinar addressed these concerns and explored how people of faith and conscience might respond.


FOG opens registration for seminar on New Mexico's open government laws
Roundhouse

Registration is now open for the 2024 FOG Continuing Education Seminar. The event, titled “Unlocking Access: A Deep Dive into New Mexico’s Open Government Laws,” will take place on November 1, 2024, in Albuquerque at the offices of the New Mexico Bar Association located at 5121 Masthead St. NE.


Senator Greg Baca supports JD Vance after vice presidential debate
Roundhouse

Following the recent vice presidential debate between Senator JD Vance and Governor Tim Walz, Senate Republican Leader Greg Baca has shared his views on the outcome. According to Baca, "Tonight, Senator JD Vance was the clear victor in the debate versus Governor Tim Walz." He praised Vance for presenting "an eloquent and concise path to prosperity for our country."


Research tracks New Mexico hummingbird health amid climate challenges
Roundhouse

Biologist Shayne Halter is researching the health of hummingbirds in New Mexico as the region experiences warmer and drier conditions.


Equality New Mexico outlines its detailed candidate endorsement process
Roundhouse

Equality New Mexico (EQNM) is preparing to announce its official endorsements for the 2024 elections. The organization emphasizes a thorough vetting process to ensure candidates support inclusive values and policies that impact the LGBTQ community.


New Mexico's child poverty ranking improves with consideration of anti-poverty programs
Roundhouse

The U.S. Census Bureau has released data indicating that New Mexico's child poverty rate improves significantly when anti-poverty programs are considered under the supplemental poverty measure. According to this measure, the state ranks 22nd in the nation for child poverty, a marked improvement from its last-place ranking under the official poverty measure.


Federal report highlights impact of anti-poverty measures on New Mexico's child poverty rate
Roundhouse

A federal report has, for the first time, detailed New Mexico's child poverty rate after considering anti-poverty measures such as tax credits and food assistance. According to advocates, this is a significant achievement for the state.


Longtime child welfare lobbyist Bill Jordan retires after 26 years
Roundhouse

Bill Jordan, a longtime lobbyist at the Roundhouse, is retiring after 26 years with the nonprofit New Mexico Voices for Children. Throughout his career, Jordan has been dedicated to advocating for issues affecting young people.


Bill Jordan reflects on 30 years as NM Voices for Children lobbyist
Roundhouse

New Mexico In Depth Executive Director Trip Jennings recently interviewed Bill Jordan, a longtime lobbyist for NM Voices for Children. Jordan retired last week after over 30 years of lobbying New Mexico lawmakers on various issues. During the interview, they discussed his experiences and aimed to demystify the Roundhouse for readers and viewers.


Martinez del Rio explores vital animal-plant interactions at Wildlife Wednesday
Roundhouse

Carlos Martinez del Rio, a board member of the New Mexico Wildlife Federation, is set to deliver a talk titled "The Bat, The Bee, the Pinyon Jay and the Hunter" at the federation’s "Wildlife Wednesday" event on September 11. The focus of his presentation will be on the conservation of non-game wildlife and its importance for outdoors enthusiasts.


Attorney General expands legal action over Pecos River access dispute
Roundhouse

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez is intensifying his legal efforts against landowners obstructing public access to the Pecos River. This week, Torrez's office sought a court order requiring landowner Erik Briones to justify why he should not be held in contempt.



Senate Republicans criticize Democrats after short special session on public safety
Roundhouse

The Special Session in Santa Fe aimed at addressing public safety concluded after five hours, resulting in the passage of a single bill.


New Mexico advocates push for updated oil industry accountability laws
Roundhouse

Advocates in New Mexico have petitioned the Oil Conservation Commission to update outdated laws on oil and gas cleanup, financial assurance, and operator transfers.


Event planned for missing & murdered indigenous women on May 5
Roundhouse

The Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW) is organizing an event in collaboration with the New Mexico Indian Affairs Department (IAD) on May 5, 2024.