As Republicans in New Mexico join forces to sail a campaign against Democratic Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s unconstitutional ban on open and concealed carry of firearms amidst the 30-day emergency public health order, Democrats in both the state legislature and even her party have begun to distance themselves away for fear of being associated with the governor’s sinking ship.
Despite the state being a Democratic hotbed, Republican leaders in the state senate, including State Representative John Block, who represents District 51, and State Representative Stefani Lord, who represents District 22, are leading the charge in a possible impeachment of Governor Grisham and the lawsuit filed against her by multiple groups.
“The radio silence from every Democrat in the Legislature proves Gov. Lujan Grisham’s support is evaporating quickly. Usually, they flock to defend her in any and all instances,” said Rep. Block in a conversation with Townhall. “On this one, they are staying on the sidelines, so this is a turning point.”
The governor, however, continues to double down on her order in spite of opposition from her own party, recently claiming that “no constitutional right, in my view, including my oath, is intended to be absolute.” This led Republican Senate Leader Gregory Baca, who represents District 29 to chime in, saying “Republicans and Democrats agree. The governor blatantly violated our state and federal constitutions, and by her own admission, her oath of office. There should be consequences for her malfeasance and we are examining all options.”
Adding to the Governor’s opposition are her fellow Democrats Bernalillo County Sheriff John D. Allen and New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez, both of whom refuse to defend her order. Rep. Block has also noted the role Democratic Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller plays in the opposition when the mayor posted that the Albuquerque police “is not responsible for enforcing the governor’s ban.” The opposition, including the ACLU, have all refused to side with the governor and the 30-day ban.
We welcome meaningful solutions and additional resources to fight crime in Albuquerque. APD is not responsible for enforcing the governor’s ban, our officers will continue to enforce all criminal laws, combat gun violence, and push for needed justice in our city. https://t.co/PT1l3o2kcA
— Mayor Tim Keller (@MayorKeller) September 9, 2023
Law professor Jonathan Turley, who has recently weighed in on the constitutionality of the order, brings light to the Governor’s aim stating, “What is striking about this effort is the short specified period…She could face a preliminary injunction in that time. However, if she gets a sympathetic trial judge, the time could run out before a final ruling can be secured on appeal.”
Republican Rep. Block suggested that the governor’s endgame might be to “audition for a high place in Joe Biden’s cabinet if he wins in 2024,” a suggestion of which garnered support from prominent figures like Elon Musk who tweeted, “How soon can this person be removed from office?”
While New Mexico remains a Democratic state, Grisham’s unconstitutional order is echoed by a growing voice of concerned citizens and lawmakers alike, unified in restoring the securement of individual rights and the Constitution with her immediate removal.
