Tipping Point New Mexico: Recent Episodes
Paul Gessing
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Albuquerque mayoral candidate Mayling Armijo. Armijo has been involved in economic development at various levels of government and has filled out the RGF mayoral candidate survey which highlights her views on economic development. Although new to electoral politics Armijo has plans to bring significant change to Albuquerque. Don't miss this important conversation.
Paul stopped by the No Kings rally in ABQ on Saturday. He offers a full report.
Route 66 visitors center highlights failure of government.
We have received a few candidate surveys back. They can be found at ErrorsofEnchantment.com
New Mexico (stupidly) joins California lawsuit over EV mandate repeal.
RGF "beats the heat" attending "fiesta" in Albuquerque.
New Mexico NPR/PBS stations among the most dependent on federal $$:
We talked last week about NM's 50th ranking in Kids Count. This is what the left wing Voices for Children group had to say.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Sarah Smith, an activist in Las Cruces, New Mexico, about some of the most important issues facing her area of the State. Sarah came to prominence during the COVID as a leading opponent of MLG's lockdowns.
Sarah is involved with Coalition of Conservatives in Action (a Las Cruces grassroots group), New Mexico Freedoms Alliance (which operates statewide), and the National Coalition for Health Integrity.
They discuss a recent referendum attempt that was denied by politicians in Las Cruces, plans afoot to ban natural gas in Las Cruces, and broader economic and political issues in the City. Don't miss this conversation!
On this week's conversation Paul has an update on the heat rule (plus some more information on exactly who is behind it).
Another year, another 50th ranking for NM in the Kids Count index. We discuss what is happening and why New Mexico will improve its outcomes only when voters decide they want better.
A bill being considered at City Council would impose stiff new regulations on landlords.
RGF has sent out candidate surveys for ABQ Mayoral and Council candidates.
NM residents spend 6th most nationally on health care.
Trump tariffs WERE overturned by a court, but they are back thanks to a rapid appeal
Howie Morales will NOT run for Gov. after all.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Doug Peterson. Doug is principal of Peterson Properties which is a real estate holding and management company based in Albuquerque. Doug and Paul discuss exploding property tax assessments imposed by Bernalillo County Assessor Damian Lara, the proposed Business Improvement District downtown, and broader issues in New Mexico's commercial real estate sector. You don't want to miss this timely conversation!
A panel of trade judges just unanimously declared the majority of Trump's tariffs illegal. What does this mean?
Another candidate has entered the race for Gov. What does it mean?
Treasurer of New Mexico's Democratic party abruptly resigns 5 weeks into the job. What's going on?
The Food Stamp program (SNAP) is being trimmed in the BBB. New Mexico is the number one food stamp recipient state.
MLG and other blue state governors respond to the end of California's EV mandates.
Recent testimony highlights New Mexico's absurd federal dependency.
Paul recently talked to KOAT TV about Albuquerque's shady public campaign financing system.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with New Mexico House Minority Leader Rep. Gail Armstrong. They discuss her rural district and added responsibilities as minority leader. They address the recently-completed legislative session and its challenges. Mostly, Paul and Rep. Armstrong discuss education policy in New Mexico and a recent forum in Albuquerque at which Sen. Mimi Stewart and Armstrong engaged in a discussion over early childhood reading and Mississippi's educational successes. Check out this important conversation!
Paul recently sat down with KOAT Channel 7 to discuss New Mexico's $6 billion in unspent capital outlay funds. He discusses why it is an issue and what he believes should be done about it.
NPR: left leaning Texans are moving to New Mexico.
New Mexico is corrupt, but lack of economic freedom is a primary cause, not the effect.
New Mexico's "clean fuel standard" takes another step towards implementation.
The US Senate has voted to overturn California's EV mandate (which is what NM is working under). The bill now heads to Trump's desk.
Paul to participate in panel discussion on Trump tax cuts/reform.
RGF to host event on decline in NM's economic freedom.
Paul and Wally recently watched a video series about New Mexico by a YouTuber named Nick Johnson. The video on Santa Fe is particularly interesting and funny.
On this week's show Paul talks to Senate Minority Leader Bill Sharer of Farmington. Sen. Sharer has been a long-time conservative stalwart in Santa Fe. They discuss some of the Republican successes of the 2025 legislative session and his new role in leading the GOP Senate. During the second half of the interview they focus on the proposed heat regulations which are currently open for public comment. Finally, they discuss the closure of San Juan Generating station and the potential sale of PNM.
On this week's show Paul and Wally begin by discussing breaking news with the potential sale of PNM.
They also discuss former President Joe Biden's cancer diagnosis and the fact that this diagnosis was likely known for some time.
Santa Fe Public Schools' budget is a massive $46,000 per student next year:
RGF appeared in National Review recently.
An okra farm received $25,000 from New Mexico taxpayers. Then things got even more interesting.
With talks under way in Washington over Medicaid reform New Mexico politicians are "freaking out." Paul and Wally explain why cuts and reforms are long overdue.
There has been a spate of issues with air traffic control especially in Newark, Paul has done work on this issue in the past. The solution can be found by looking north to Canada.
There has been a lot of discussion about New Mexico's underfunded pensions recently. What's going on?
On this week's Tipping Point NM interview Paul talks to the legislator who scored the VERY best among all 112 in the Foundation's Freedom Index: Rep. Randy Pettigrew. Pettigrew represents Lea County in the Legislature. He has long been a conservative stalwart in the Legislature. Pettigrew pulls no punches in this frank discussion!
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss several recent developments relating to New Mexico's political situation.
Skyrocketing costs of New Mexico's pre-K places the State at: $13,227 per child. Where are the results?
To their credit the media have started to discuss the APS budget using our approach to overall spending.
House Republicans w/ Democrats including Rep. Vasquez vote to overturn California's EV waiver.
One Rep.'s bizarre constituent mail.
Do oil and gas "run" New Mexico's Legislature.
Trump threatens film tariffs?
On this week's episode Paul talks to local entrepreneur and businessman (and Hillsdale College graduate) Daniel Higbie. They discuss unique cultural obstacles to entrepreneurship in New Mexico and their historical origins. They also discuss specific efforts that he and other business owners have undertaken in order to change New Mexico and its approach to business, wealth, outsiders, and more. Here are several links to various concepts discussed in the conversation: https://www.praxis.co/redemptive-entrepreneurship
https://faithdrivenentrepreneur.org/
https://www.faithdriveninvestor.org/
https://faithdrivenentrepreneur.org/find-a-group/
Paul was in Las Cruces recently. He gives a brief report about his efforts there and the latest things happening in the City. Paul and Wally also discuss the City's growth potential and economic challenges.
Las Cruces is coming after natural gas heating and appliances.
Paul recently talked to KOAT TV regarding Gov. MLG's contingency fund and questions about its use.
Albuquerque City Council recently considered and rejected a gross receipts tax hike. Paul was in attendance.
$3.3 million spent by city of ABQ to renovate apartment steps?
As prices drop it is worth noting that NM oil production has been rising. Will that continue?
7 years in and we have ANOTHER judge-ordered remedial plan for New Mexico's education system.
On this week's Tipping Point NM interview Paul sits down with Carlos Garcia of Garcia Automotive for an update on New Mexico's electric vehicle situation. What's the latest with the mandate both at the federal and state levels? Did the Legislature do anything? When do 2026 vehicles (43% of which are supposed to be EV's show up on dealer lots?). What's next for EV mandates and car buyers in New Mexico?
Also, Carlos and Paul discuss the impact of Trump's tariffs on the auto industry and Elon Musk's fall from grace (with his best customers).
NM Democrats pick teachers union official as new state party chairwoman. Paul and Wally discuss the TRUE purpose of NM's government education system.
The 2025 legislative session concluded with no action taken on the Gov.'s EV mandates. latest on EV mandates in New Mexico. With the 43% mandate set to kick in soon, what are the latest EV numbers?
Paul will be in Las Cruces for two presentations on May 1/2nd.
Proposed New Mexico regulations on working in the heat could have a profound impact on some businesses.
A recent event in Santa Fe put on by the media outlet Axios involved several New Mexico political types. The event was about "renewable energy" but it included discussion of the budgetary impact of renewables when compared with oil and gas that were enlightening.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Rep. Elaine Sena Cortez a freshman Republican from Hobbs, NM. Cortez has a unique and compelling story that has led her to the New Mexico Legislature. Paul and Elaine discuss the recent session, some of the bills she sponsored, and her philosophy as a legislator. Sena Cortez is an energetic and exciting person to have in New Mexico's Legislature!
Whatever you think of the recent Blue Origin flight, the fact is that Bezos' technology is far superior to Virgin Galactic's.
Paul recently traveled to Gallup: I-40 is a dangerous embarrassment to NM.
The Albuquerque Public Schools 2025-2026 budget is slated to spend an estimated $35,384 per student. As usual Trever of the Journal nails it with his latest cartoon.
9 candidates have declared for mayor. Paul and Wally discuss the latest details.
A big tax hike is quietly moving through ABQ City Council.
We can discuss this article which had a different title in print. Regardless, the article and the people quoted completely miss the point.
On this week's interview Paul talks to former Albuquerque Journal opinion editor Jeffery Tucker. They begin by discussing the recently announced plan by the Journal to sell its building and launch into a discussion of the newspaper business. They further discuss the life of an opinion editor, changes to the business over time, and Jeff's numerous jobs in the business over the years. Finally, they discuss current economic topics including Trump's tariffs.
The GOP HQ fire bomb suspect appears to have been captured. He looks JUST as you'd expect.
MLG vetoed two bills in the waning hours of her signing period (we agree with her on both). MLG also ripped Democrat leadership in the Legislature saying of the tax bill
“Even more troubling is the fact that what ultimately emerged lack both strategic coherence and fiscal responsibility,” the governor added. “There was no plan and no preparation for how to pay for the tax relief in this bill. She also vetoed a lowrider license plate bill and tortilla as the state's official bread. MLG argued that these bills represent a "misuse of time and priorities"
Paul and Wally discuss the latest political news in Albuquerque's Mayoral race and race for Governor. Specifically Paul and Wally discuss the possible impact of one of the bills the Gov. signed sets up "semi-open primaries" and how it COULD open new strategic voting opportunities.
Freedom Index results are now finalized. How did your legislators do? Also, RGF recently tabulated how the average stacks up relative to other sessions.
The Maxeon deal has been changed (downsized) dramatically, yet the Economic Development Department website still touts the original deal.
Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin recently launched Katy Perry and others to space for 11 minutes. Is Bezos taking Virgin Galactic's market?
MLG sends the National Guard to Albuquerque, but to what end?
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Troy Clark. Troy is head of the New Mexico Hospital Association which represents most hospitals throughout New Mexico. They discuss how hospitals are set up in New Mexico (government, non-profit, and for-profit), but quickly turn to the legislative session and the Gov.'s signing of a bill directly (negatively) impacting hospitals. Finally, the conversation broadens out to the health care provider shortage and what can and should be done to address it.
MLG has until Friday to sign or veto bills that passed this session. She signed a few on Monday. Paul and Wally discuss some of the bills signed. Many of them were not relevant to RGF, but nonetheless will impact the State in important ways.
Then, Paul and Wally have a lengthy discussion of the most important economic issue facing our nation, the tariff situation. What does it mean, what are the goals, and how might it turn out in the end for New Mexico and the United States?
Crude oil prices have dropped significantly for the first time in months.
Michael Cannon, director of health policy studies for the libertarian Cato Institute was in Albuquerque for some talks to RGF and Federalist Society. He sat down with Paul to discuss the medical provider shortage in New Mexico and broader issues in healthcare. Michael especially takes on the issue of Medicaid which is a joint federal/state program to (supposedly) provide Medicaid for the poor and how this program's perverse incentives drive health care costs upward, doctors out of business, and are driving America into a debt crisis. You don't want to miss this timely conversation!
Someone appears to have committed arson at NM GOP HQ.
According to a new Wallethub report, New Mexico is dead last when it comes to the Return on Investment (ROI) for taxpayers
And, another new Wallethub report places New Mexico first on "most stressed."
The best part of what happened in the session is the death of several bad bills.
State data on Albuquerque Public Schools finds the District's performance on education metrics wanting which broadly reflects the recent findings of NAEP.
A travel journalist on Youtube named Nick Johnson recently traveled to Albuquerque's Warzone. He called it: "The Most Frightful Neighborhood In America."
New Mexico's film industry is in a "lull" but the state expects to pay out $118 million in tax credits in the current fiscal year, while $117 million was paid out last year and $73 million the year before that.
On this week's Tipping Point interview Paul sits down with Tego Venturi, a realtor in Albuquerque. He recently won realtor of the year from the National Association of Realtors. Tego and Paul discuss the local housing market and current conditions in the metro area and then move on to talk about housing legislation and whether the bills being passed (or considered in Santa Fe) would address the housing "crisis." Is the Legislature moving in the right direction or do they need to consider other approaches to addressing housing in New Mexico? Paul and Tego may not agree 100% but this is an informational conversation about an important part of New Mexico's economy.
On this week's Tipping Point NM conversation Paul and Wally discuss three timely events:
The end of the 2025 60-day legislative session;
The Lobos success and subsequent defeat
The shooting in Las Cruces which (again) involved young people, even teenagers shooting and killing each other.
Much of this episode is dedicated to going through the bills that passed both houses this session. Unfortunately, they are almost universally bad although ONE good bill not only passed both houses, but almost overcame an MLG veto.
Finally, Paul had a chance to testify as an expert witness on Sen. Jay Block's "GATO" bill on rooting out wasteful government spending (SB 484).
You don't want to miss this detailed recap of some of the bills that will likely become new laws in New Mexico.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Matthew Mitchell. Matt is Senior Fellow in the Centre for Human Freedom at the Canadian Fraser Institute (a free market think tank). But Matthew WAS with the Rio Grande Foundation many years ago. He is a native New Mexican living in Angel Fire. More importantly, he and Paul have co-authored a new report "Economic Freedom in the Land of Enchantment" which Paul considers the most important policy study the Foundation has ever undertaken. The report has loads of useful information but specifically finds that New Mexico is the ONLY state in the nation to lose economic freedom since 1981.
With less than a week left in the session, Paul and Wally discuss the latest from Santa Fe. Specifically, Paul and Wally discuss SB 176 and the fact that reforms like it to address NM's medical malpractice laws have been slowed thanks to the trial attorneys.
In a huge win for businesses and taxpayers paid leave died over the weekend.
HB 14, a mediocre bill goes bad.
What's the latest on the Freedom Index?
A new report by Rio Grande Foundation and the Fraser Institute finds that New Mexico is the only state in the nation to have seen a decline in economic freedom since 1981. Paul and Wally go into detail on NM's lack of economic freedom.
On this week's Tipping Point interview Paul sits down with Albuquerque mayoral candidate Eddie Varela. RGF hopes to talk to each of the candidates about their visions for Albuquerque's future and how they would address some of the very serious issues facing New Mexico's largest City.
Check out the first of these conversations with Mr. Varela about his personal history and plans.
Paul and Wally discuss the latest on HB 11, formerly known as Paid Family & Medical Leave.
A bill to raise alcohol taxes died in committee (HB 417). Are alcohol taxes dead for the session? Speaking of which, the tax bill is/could be the biggest bill yet to drop this session. It could STILL include this and other tax policies and be rammed through by session end.
Democrats in the House Energy Committee rejected another opportunity to reform EV rules by overturning MLG's mandate.
Bipartisan support for a Medicaid Trust Fund? What does it mean?
Paul attempted to testify (virtually) against HB 6. Why and what happened?
Today is the 5th anniversary of MLG's first COVID public health emergency. Paul and Wally look at that legacy and the recent NM supreme court decision to ratify it and other emergencies like her anti-gun emergency.
Paul will be in Alamogordo on the day of March 26 and we have an exciting event on New Mexico's medical shortage that evening in ABQ as well:
Darren White is the latest addition to the Albuquerque Mayoral race. Can anyone knock off Tim Keller?
This week's "interview" is a little different. This week Paul and Wally talk taxes. What is their purpose? Why are they such a priority right now for the Rio Grande Foundation? Which taxes do more or less economic harm? Why is the GRT such a "unique" issue here in New Mexico? Paul is doing a more thorough presentation on taxes in New Mexico at an event THIS Saturday. You can find out more here.
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss the latest on the newly renamed paid leave bill and other issues in the Legislature.
How are things looking in terms of the Freedom Index?
Paul recently wrote a blog post that was picked up by the Santa Fe New Mexican that the process in Santa Fe stinks.
MLG plans a special session to deal with Trump cuts, but Medicaid is in dire need of reform. What does it all mean?:
Paul will be discussing tax reform at an event this weekend w/ AFP. If you have a chance to come out on Saturday Paul will talk state taxes and there will be a separate presentation on the Trump tax cuts.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with attorney, activist, and author Ilya Shapiro. Shapiro worked at the libertarian Cato Institute for more than a decade and attempted a career change to Georgetown Law School. Sadly, a factually accurate but "controversial" post on social media got him into hot water and caused nationwide controversy including at Georgetown Law. The dustup caused Ilya to look elsewhere for employment and also resulted in his new book "Lawless: The Miseducation of America's Elites." You don't want to miss this informative conversation!
Paul and Wally share the latest from the Roundhouse. Paid Family Leave is revised and heading for the House floor. HB 417 a revised alcohol tax of 6% has passed through the House Tax Committee on partisan lines.
Free speech is under attack in Santa Fe: https://errorsofenchantment.com/new-mexico-s-b-85-a-legally-dubious-speech-chilling-proposal/ In a bit of good news SB 4 (net zero) was tabled in the Senate Finance Committee.
RGF's president had an article in National Review about the disaster that would be Deb Haaland as Gov. of New Mexico. Former Las Cruces Mayor may run for Gov. He says he's "do things 90% differently than MLG." Will changes to New Mexico voting law impact this race? Paul and Wally discuss.
Despite numerous dire challenges facing New Mexico the Legislature has no solutions besides shoveling money into various "permanent funds." New Mexico now has $61 billion under SIC control.
Another fabulous Trever cartoon highlights (just some) of the good bills that get no love from the hyper "progressives" in Santa Fe. Sadly, plenty of bad bills ARE moving quickly.
Paul recently sat down with Americans for Prosperity's new state director for New Mexico Sarah Hetemi.They discuss what AFP does and is doing here in New Mexico especially during the ongoing legislative session (and how you can help) as well as what their plans are nationally in terms of issues like the Trump tax cuts and education choice. Paul and Sarah then move on to discuss Sarah's personal journey from Norway to Alaska and now to New Mexico.
AFP is one of the Rio Grande Foundation's most important partner organizations. You don't want to miss this conversation!
I testified yesterday on a bill that would eliminate New Mexico's income tax. Here's what I said and here's what happened. Speaking of zero income tax states, IN & OUT burger chain moves to Tennessee from California.
PFML will finally be considered in its 2nd committee on Wednesday. Paul and Wally discuss what that means.
NM Democrats seem to have settled on a plan to raise alcohol taxes.
SB 139 which would have eliminated MLG's EV mandate was defeated in its first committee on partisan lines.
A "study" claims UNM athletics creates a big economic benefit for New Mexico. We appreciate collegiate sports but take the study with a big grain of salt.
How's the NM "Portfolio" doing? We have an update.
New Mexicans spend 6th most on groceries as a percent of income according to a new report.
On this week's interview Paul talks to return guest, author, and commentator Philip K. Howard about DOGE. For advocates of limited government DOGE is the most exciting effort to cut wasteful spending and bring functionality to the federal government that we have seen since at least the Grace Commission during the Reagan Administration. Howard and Gessing have a robust discussion of DOGE and numerous aspects of its mission and activities so far. They address whether Congress will go along with DOGE, whether there are more effective potential ways to streamline government, and whether this effort will ultimately succeed. More information about Philip K. Howard's work can be found at his Common Good website and at his recent Manhattan Institute paper.
Super Bowl: game wasn't so great, but great to see America celebrated and Trump cheered.
A bill relating to expanding Medicaid is moving through the session. This is madness!
Now MLG is the education reformer? This one is a doozie!
I went on KOAT 7 to discuss a crazy bill that would hand our tax dollars to UNM and NMSU to pay athletes.
HB 11 PFML remains bottled up in committee. Some lawmakers even blame us for "bullying."
A bill to increase royalties (taxes paid on oil and gas) is moving through the Legislature.
A recent op-ed running across New Mexico by our policy analyst Carter Swanson ran in the ABQ Journal last week.
Paul talks with Representative Rebecca Dow about good and bad legislation that is being considered at the 2025 Regular Session of the New Mexico Legislature. They also discuss issues facing education and whether the legislature is considering items that improve New Mexico's low performance. Don't miss this informative discussion.
A judge has ruled that MLG overreached in attempting to force districts to adopt 5 day school weeks.
Paul and Wally discuss the latest from the Roundhouse.
National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) scores came out last week. New Mexico again brings up the rear.
Tennessee becomes 13th state in US to adopt universal school choice.
According to the latest EV sales numbers New Mexico is nowhere near the mark.
SB 139 introduced this session would overturn the Gov.'s EV mandates.
Surprisingly New Mexico is not ranked very highly as a retirement destination.
Ilya Shapiro will be speaking at an RGF event on Feb. 21.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Andrew Handel of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) about the new 2025 Education Freedom Index which he authored and his organization published. New Mexico ranked a poor 44th in the latest version of this index.
It's been a week since the Legislature began. Paul has been to Santa Fe twice and discusses what is happening.
SB4 (net zero) is one of the craziest bills that will be moving this week.
MLG gave her State of the State address. We have some thoughts. The Santa Fe New Mexican did a fact check of the address.
RGF is part of a coalition working to defeat Paid Family Leave. Find out more here.
Paul had an opinion piece in several media outlets on alcohol taxes and why raising them is unnecessary.
New Mexico has the lowest median pay in America: DC workers now make nearly two and a half times as much as the average New Mexico resident.
ABQ bus ridership continues to slowly rebound post-COVID.
Mayor Keller's latest scheme in downtown Albuquerque is particularly dumb.
The WNMU situation keeps getting worse.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Zach Fort. Fort, a return guest on Tipping Point NM, handles legislative affairs for the New Mexico Shooting Sports Association. They discuss threats to gun rights, crime and whether genuine efforts to fight it will come about it in the the 2025 legislative session as well as Gov. Lujan Grisham's status as the most anti-gun governor in the entire country.
Donald Trump was (again) inaugurated president of the United States on Monday. Paul and Wally discuss and address issues w/ Biden's presidency.
Biden issued more pardons on his way out the door including for Anthony Fauci, Mark Milley, and several family members. More pardons have been issued by Biden than any other president in American history.
Biden even attempted to declare the Equal Rights Amendment the 28th amendment to the US Constitution.
The LFC budget (like MLG's) is ALSO a dud for New Mexico taxpayers.
Yes, New Mexico could/should eliminate NM's personal income tax.
NM Women's Specialists to stop delivering babies at Presbyterian citing New Mexico's tax, malpractice, and Medicaid. Also, NM House Dems outline their health care plans for session (which don't do anything for the doctor shortage).
Paul has been watching the TV show Landman. He recommends this short, profanity laced talk by actor Billy Bob Thornton about the importance of oil and gas.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Jim Winchester. Jim is the Executive Director of the Independent Oil Producers of New Mexico (IPANM). IPANM is the voice of "small" oil in New Mexico. As small businesses their views tend to align with those of the Rio Grande Foundation. Thus, RGF works closely with Jim and his group on a variety of issues. Find out what is coming during the 2025 legislative session in this important interview.
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss the closure of the Amador Entertainment District in Las Cruces and the owner's eye opening comments.
RGF helped the national Free Speech Coalition win a big victory w/ Meta/Facebook.
New Mexico ranks last in Wallethub's best states for families.
Albuquerque City Council takes one step forward, one back.
RGF was in the National Reviewrecently.
Paul has a few thoughts on California fires.
With the presidential inauguration and New Mexico Legislative session coming early next week we are excited to keep our listeners updated on developments in Washington and Santa Fe.
Paul talks with Representative John Block about the upcoming legislative session. They discuss issues that will likely be addressed and the Republican's ability to shape what passes and what does not pass.
New Mexico remains a slow growth state when it comes to population.
Tax changes took effect at the New Year. Here's what they mean.
New Mexico's Environment Department releases a draft "clean fuel standard."
New Mexico's RailRunner ridership rises slightly in 2024.
The Administration of ABQ Mayor Tim Keller was found to have misused federal COVID $$ to give raises to top officials.
Bills are being introduced in the 2025 legislative session.
In a win for freedom Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has resigned as Canada's prime minister.
Biden is locking up large tracts of offshore resources in his waning days in office.
On this week's Tipping Point interview Paul sits down with regular guest Carol Wight Executive Director of the NM Restaurant Association. Paul and Carol begin by discussing issues with the City of Albuquerque over the City's incorrect (by admission) calculation of its minimum wage law. Carol explains why this is not "restaurant greed," but actually an issue of fairness between front-of-the-house and back-of-the-house workers.
They discuss issues in the upcoming 2025 legislative session, most especially paid family leave. They address other issues in the upcoming legislative session as well including New Mexico's generally anti-business political climate. Check out this interview, the last of 2024!
The APS school board takes one tiny (yet controversial) step towards reality. The challenge of embracing a population decline for the government education system.
More MLG misdirection on child poverty. RGF continues to call out the Gov.'s lies.
A bill on the verge of being signed by President Biden will accelerate Social Security's demise.
Paul and Wally then review some of the top events of 2024 in terms of their impact on public policy both nationally and in the State of New Mexico. Merry Christmas and Happy and Prosperous New Year!
On this week's Tipping Point interview Paul sits down w/ Carla Kugler head of the NM chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors. They discuss New Mexico's performance in the organization's Merit Shop Scorecard. They talk about New Mexico's massive $6 billion in unspent capital outlay dollars and the State's deteriorating roads. Finally, they discuss New Mexico's construction workforce and how the state can find and train new workers in the trades and what ABC is doing about it. You don't want to miss this important discussion!
MLG's budget is out and it offers taxpayers nothing. Paul and Wally do a bit of a deep dive into the budget process and why it is so confusing and lacking in transparency.
Not all legislators want to address New Mexico's medical provider shortage.
A $10B program to buy EVs for the U.S. Postal Service is far behind schedule, with defense contractor Oshkosh not disclosing significant manufacturing difficulties for more than a year. The USPS has received only 93 trucks - far fewer than the 3,000 expected by now. Cost is $167K per truck
New Mexico sticks out (badly) in the brand new "Merit Shop Index" put out by Associated Builders and Contractors which ranks state construction environments in all 50 states.
On the latest Tipping Point interview Paul talks to Dean Stansel, lead author of the 2024 Economic Freedom of North America report. What is economic freedom and why is it so important? Why does New Mexico lag in it and why is it getting worse?
New Mexico drops two spots to 47th in latest Economic Freedom of North America.
UNM football loses head coach. Why does this have economic importance?
"Free" college drives up attendance at New Mexico colleges and universities, but to what end?
Bernalillo County is voting on Tuesday to potentially raise County Commissioner salaries under the recently-passed constitutional amendment. Is YOUR county voting to increase commissioner salaries soon?
MLG wants to potentially move the New Mexico's State Fair. Paul and Wally take a closer look. .
We took a look at Maxeson Solar's financials and they are UGLY.
6% of federal workers are in the office full time while one-third are fully remote.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Fred Nathan of Think New Mexico. The organization has a new policy report about the State's ongoing medical provider shortage. Paul and Fred discuss the organization's findings, whether the Legislature will be open to them, and areas of agreement/disagreement they have. Fred and his organization hope to make this a top priority in the upcoming session. Check out this timely and important conversation!
Joe Biden pardons his son for ANY federal crime dating back to 2014. This is a major about face and further highlights Biden's family corruption.
Maxeon Solar moves forward in NM with a dramatically scaled back plant. Will their subsidies be scaled back as well?
Has MLG put New Mexico on a path to banning RV sales?
A proposal to put MORE New Mexicans on Medicaid will be introduced this session.
Also, a proposal to weaken New Mexico's anti-donation clause will be introduced this session.
Finally, Paul has a brief conversation with small-time mine operator Lori Coleman about the situation regarding a potential Biden Administration monument designation before he leaves office.
Tom Clifford has an extensive background in taxation and fiscal matters for New Mexico. He was Cabinet Secretary of the Department of Finance and Administration in the Martinez Administration, Tax Policy Director at Taxation and Revenue Department, and Economist at Taxation and Revenue Department, Department of Finance and Administration, and the Legislative Finance Committee.
Paul and Tom discuss the issues affecting taxation in New Mexico, discuss some strategies to improve the economy of the state through tax policy as well management of the large permanent funds that exist in New Mexico.
NM House speaker says "Trump Could Learn from NM": how's that?
MLG claims New Mexico's child poverty rate dropped from50th to a ranking of 17th. What's the REAL story?
NM's stark decline in public school enrollment is set to accelerate. .
Economic ignorance of those "leading" New Mexico is a real problem.
The US Constitution should be amended to keep the Court at 9members.
Heritage Foundation finds New Mexico election integrity ranked 36th.
MLG's symposium on transportation omits the dominant transportation technology and other important issues.
NM State auditor finds numerous instances of wasteful spending at WNMU.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Carol Gessing. Not only is Carol his mother, but Carol worked the two weeks of early voting this fall as well as over the summer during the primaries. They discuss the various jobs of election officials at polling places, the processes used to verify the accuracy of the elections and other issues involved in conducting New Mexico's elections. Carol lived in Ohio and has some comparisons with the way things work in that state as compared to NM.
On this week's Tipping Point conversation Paul and Wally discuss President-elect Trump's cabinet choices and their special importance to New Mexico. Interior, Energy, HHS, and "border czar" are among the most impactful. How will they impact our State?
Speaking of RFK, Paul's tweet about RFK taking MLG's "dream job" recently went viral.
Paul was in Lake Tahoe last week with Grover Norquist and members of the center-right coalition. What was he there for and what did he learn?
Newly imposed food stamp work requirements took effect in a few counties around New Mexico recently. Some liberals are freaking out.
New Mexico House Speaker Javier Martinez says NM is "Trump Proof." Paul and Wally believe differently.
California recently enhanced its "clean fuel standard" like the one New Mexico has in place. It will cost California motorists 67 cents/gallon as a starting point.
It will be a challenging legislative session for freedom lovers in New Mexico in 2025, but RGF has outlined its goals for 2025.
12 women volleyball players in the Mountain West are suing the conference on First Amendment grounds over the transgender player for San Jose State University.
A former Democrat State Senator recently took Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller to task over crime.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Daniel Turner the Founder and Executive Director of Power the Future, a pro-energy activism organization that works nationally and in New Mexico. Paul and Daniel discuss the role energy issues played in the 2024 election and why New Mexico failed to embrace pro-energy, reform-minded candidates. Also they discuss what Trump will do on energy issues in the near future and over his four years in office as well as where things are headed in New Mexico.
Don't miss this thoughtful, forward-looking conversation!
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss the election results. Specifically each of them made predictions about the election and potential outcomes. How did they do?
Ultimately this conversation wraps up the election outcomes and looks forward to some big issues and races looming in the months and years ahead for the United States and New Mexico alike.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Jared Walczak of the Tax Foundation. The Tax Foundation is a prominent center/right taxpayer research organization based in Washington, DC. They often testify in New Mexico's Legislature on issues relating to taxation. They also have a new State Tax Competitiveness Index. New Mexico ranks 31st which isn't at the bottom, but isn't great either. Paul and Jared discuss the Index, its findings and implications for tax policy, which states perform well and poorly and why, and what New Mexico policymakers should do to make New Mexico more competitive with other states.
You don't want to miss this fascinating conversation!
Election Day is here. Paul and Wally discuss what's at stake in the election. They also discuss Donald Trump's Albuquerque rally. A recent ABQ Journal editorial calls for fundamental change on crime. Paul concurs but wishes they'd also discussed the economy and education.
Defenders of the Judicial Performance Evaluation Commission believe THEY have the answers when it comes to judicial retention.
Santa Fe schools see a 25% decrease in student population. Rebecca Dow with the Foundation's OAK project attended a recent ABQ Chamber event on education and offers her own thoughts.
Legislature’s craziest idea yet?
On this week's interview Paul interviews former New Mexico Senator, demographer, and election official, Rod Adair. They discuss the role of demography in redistricting, the redistricting process itself, and whether New Mexico's Congressional and legislative districts are "fair." Then Paul and Rod moved on to discussing the 2024 election including the Secretary of State's recent mailing that generated controversy, how to better secure New Mexico elections, and whether the election results themselves will be "fair." With Election Day looming you don't want to miss this important conversation!
Trump is coming to New Mexico. What are the details and what does it mean for the election and New Mexico?
Paul voted this week. No lines but it was busy. We're in the 2nd week of early voting. You can vote through Saturday.
The ABQ Journal comes out hard for change in NewMexico. This is welcome, but Paul wishes they'd say the same thing about the economy and education.
Mandating setbacks for oil and gas development would costNew Mexico big $$$ according to a new report by the Legislative Finance Committee.
The National Association of Manufacturers has a new report touting the economic impact of LNG exports and highlighting problems with the Biden/Harris pause.
O'Neill's owner says ART and COVID cost him his business.
Think New Mexico produces plan to (further) address the State's medical provider shortage.
Finally, Paul and Wally offer some predictions for the election including who wins the presidency, US Senate races, and other critical races.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Attorney Germaine Chappelle about the Energy Transition Act and some of its real-world impacts in the Four Corners area (current and prospective). Specifically, Chappelle is working on behalf of the Central Consolidated School District (a heavily Navajo district) to make good on the law's requirements that certain power generation be located within the District's boundaries for purposes of helping the District's property tax revenues which saw a 60% reduction due to the closure of San Juan Generating Station.
Flooding impacts Roswell New Mexico.
Early voting is in full swing. Find out where you can vote.
Sen. Heinrich expresses opposition to charter schools.
Details on AZ's successful ESA program.
The Rail Runner is bad for the environment according to the LFC.
Albuquerque Journal weighs in on retention ballots for judges.
UNM volleyball plays.
O'Neill's Nob Hill closes.
MLG receives a D from Cato Institute.
WSJ article on New Mexico: “New Mexico Can’t Afford California’s Green Deal”
Las Cruces Tax Hike on the ballot.
ACE's mission is to advance K-12 educational freedom, with a focus on securing financial support for families so they may access the quality education of their choice. Erik and Paul have a wide ranging conversation on helping families access high quality education including the exciting economic achievement data from ACE's scholarship recipients.
RGF op-ed. The "rich" already pay more than their "fair share" of taxes.
Deconstructing the leftist "freedom" agenda. City of ABQ Ballot measures, what's the point? New Mexico EV shares rise slightly to 4.78%. Evolution of economic freedom in New Mexico. Sen. Martin Heinrich accepted campaign donations from both Avangrid and PNM. How this is both relevant and not. Unions encapsulated in longshoremen's strike.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Trent England of SaveourStates.org. Trent and his organization work to preserve the American Electoral College as a means of electing presidents. He is full of information and historical details highlighting why Americans regardless of political party should support retaining the Electoral College. Paul and Trent also discuss the issue of ranked choice voting and why that is problematic.
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss the excitement of Albuquerque's Balloon Fiesta and the passing of Scott Appleman and John Arthur Smith.
Paul recap the Electoral College events with Trent England and highligths the next RGF event.
A new study highlights America's Great Transfermation.
New Mexico's crisis of progressive governance.
Gender ideology to hit UNM volleyball.
As early voting gets started at the Clerk's office on October 8. Here are some of the items on your ballots this fall.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Peter Rice. Peter is the owner and lead reporter of Downtown Albuquerque News, an online news outlet that covers downtown Albuquerque.
Paul and Peter discuss the importance of downtowns in general, what constitutes downtown, some of the issues facing Albuquerque's downtown and urban cores across the country, and whether some recent proposals by Mayor Tim Keller can improve downtown. Check out this timely and important conversation!
NM sitting on $6 billion in unspent capital outlay (with the worst roads in the nation).
Maxeon Solar (MLG's favorite for which she plans to give big subsidies) has announced a "reverse stock split." The company is hoping to boost its flagging stock price.
RGF successfully pushed back against MLG's "over the top school lunch rules."
In more good news a federal judge ruled that UNM can no longer discriminate against conservative speakers.
MLG continues pumping oil and gas $$ into subsidies for politically-favored energy companies.
Preliminary data highlight "stagnant" education results in New Mexico.
NMSU picked its new president and it's not MLG's former PED secretary.
Last week Paul was in Dallas for a conference talking about New Mexico's lack of economic freedom with other leaders on the issue. What are people saying about New Mexico's lack of economic freedom?
Paul led Liberty on the Rocks in Santa Fe on Monday and then was in Farmington, NM for a Rotary presentation on New Mexico's economy.
Paul's new opinion piece on the Electoral College was run in the Santa Fe New Mexican.
RGF's education project OAK New Mexico recently surveyed candidates for the Legislature on various education issues. You can find the questions and survey results here.
New Mexico's politicians have a very government-centric view of the economy.
MLG and other liberals express misguided "pride"in our high poverty.
A new poll finds New Mexicans not happy with the economy.
A recent Albuquerque Journal poll found New Mexicans are not pleased with Biden, but the same poll indicates they want Kamala.
California adopts a total ban of plastic bags: CA governor signs law banning plastic bags at grocery stores | cbs8.com Carlsbad, NM adopted a plastic bag ban on a "temporary" basis Tuesday night.
Paul and Mackenzie discuss the position that the UNM Lobo athletics find themselves as five teams leave the Mountain West for the Pac-12 conference. They also discuss the issues facing all UNM sports but particularly the UNM football program.
The conversation then turns to the status of the New Mexico housing market and the factors and issues affecting supply and demand.
We the Living will be shown in Albuquerque on September 24, 2024 at 6:30 pm at Guild Cinema. In this podcast, learn about the fascinating story about his movie which has been found and recovered and the part the movie played in Italy in World War II. Also listen for how to get 50% off tickets.
Trump was targeted in a second assassination attempt over the weekend. Paul and Wally discuss the details as they understand them.
Brian Sanderoff polling data released shows Harris/Heinrich leading in New Mexico.
MLG names close ally Marianna Padilla PED secretary.,
Paul and Doug Peterson discuss Mayor Keller's plans for downtown in ABQ Journal.
The housing market is "broken" thanks to government policy. Now the government is supposedly trying to "fix" the problem. Will it work?
When economics and sports meet. The Lobos' Mountain West Conference lost four members. Will UNM athletics land on its feet? How does New Mexico's economic situation affect the situation?
Sen. Martin Heinrich recently floated the idea of a "Inflation Reduction Act 2.0" in the ABQ Journal.
Former NMSU president Garrey Carruthers decries MLG's meddling in NMSU presidential search.
On this week's interview Paul talks to David Osborne of the Pennsylvania-based Commonwealth Foundation. Osborne is Senior Fellow of Labor Policy and helped author the recent report "The Battle for Worker Freedom: Grading the 50-states public sector labor laws." Unsurprisingly New Mexico does not fare very well in the report with a "D-" ranking overall. Paul and David discuss the report, their views on public sector unions, and some history relating to public employee unions and recent policy developments. Check out this important conversation!
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss a bizarre article in Sunday's Albuquerque Journal by MLG's Secretary of Higher Education about NMSU president search.
Rob Black to become MLG's economic development secretary. Is this a good sign on the Gov.'s economic policies?
MLG and Democrats celebrate ground breaking of taxpayer funded abortion clinic in Las Cruces.
Maxeon stock prices hits 9 cents per share (and moves even lower)
Judge Cindy Leos' awful track record.
A chart we found online indicates that New Mexico is actually THE poorest state in the US.
Swedish automaker Volvo becomes the latest car company to abandon its pledge to be EV only by 2030.
As mentioned Paul was in Ruidoso last week. Here's what he heard and saw.
Rather than an interview this week Paul and Wally take a detailed look at the stances of presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Using 10 metrics relating to economics, education, and the rule of law, Paul and Wally give letter grades to Harris and Trump.
How do the candidates stack up on issues of concern to the Rio Grande Foundation?
MLG's latest education secretary departs. Paul and Wally discuss the depressing reality of education policy under MLG.
I attended the APS state of the district address. Here's what I saw.
Kamala Harris no longer claims to support EV mandates. Is she just lying about her policies at this point?
RGF tracked down the cost of Dona Ana County's new EV charging stations.
RGF is hosting two upcoming events (one in Albuquerque and one in Clovis) on the electoral college/voting.
It was a deadly August in Albuquerque.
Paul saw the Reagan movie over the weekend and really enjoyed it.
We were told that this would be a record-setting hurricane season. Where are all the hurricanes? Also, this was supposed to be a bad monsoon season in New Mexico. So far that has not been the case.
Paul is heading to Ruidoso for a talk tonight. This will be his first time in Ruidoso since the fires this summer.
On this week's interview Paul interviews Dr. Patrick A. McLaughlin of the free market Mercatus Center. They discuss his new "Snapshots of State Regulation 2024" report which attempts to analyze the regulatory burdens in each state. New Mexico ranks 19th overall. We discuss the methodology of the report and why certain states have allowed regulations to build up. We also discuss how states can act to reduce overall regulatory burdens and their economic harms.
I was in Phoenix last week and got to meet with former Gov. Doug Ducey and others.
Michelle Lujan Grisham's speaking on behalf of Kamala Harris Democrat convention should disqualify Harris. Meanwhile, NM's oil and gas gravy train keeps rolling along. New Mexico shouldn't be sitting on billions of dollars (contrary to an opinion piece by two legislators). Mayor Keller defends his disastrous management of ABQ's crime problems in op-ed. Merchants in Old Town beg for one patrol a night. New Mexico's education system: a "free" product unwanted by many. Smoke stacks come down at San Juan Generating Station. In "other" news Excel Energy asked customers to conserve energy: Left wing Sarah Silva chosen in Las Cruces area District 53.
Paul talks with Isaac Orr about the RGF study that finds New Mexico’s “clean fuel standard” will dramatically raise fuel prices.
Isaac Orr is a founder and Vice President of Research at Always On Energy Research, where he conducts energy modeling and writes about energy and environmental issues, electricity policy, and natural resource development.
Paul is in Arizona. What’s going on?
Mayor Keller has big plans to turn downtown Albuquerque around.
There are worse ideas than the Baby bond idea being discussed for next year’s legislative session.
Paul was in National Review recently with a piece outlining the potential harm Kamala Harris would do to NM’s economy.
EBON says they’ll begin construction on the new solar plant at Mesa del Sol in Q4. Lots still not determined including IRB’s.
Did Kamala really propose price controls? What would be the impact if implemented?
$25,000 for first time home buyers, what could go wrong?
RGF is hosting an event on October on the 3rd with Trent England of Save our States.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Rebecca Dow about "back to school" issues and education reform. Rebecca heads up the Opportunity for All Kids (OAK) education reform project for Rio Grande Foundation. They discuss everything from New Mexico's worsening education outcomes (and possible solutions), a lack of functioning air conditioning in schools, 4 vs 5 day school weeks, and more. Don't miss it!
MLG woos another money losing solar company with our tax dollars.
MLG COULD do something worthwhile to attract doctors to NM. Instead she’s taking out full page ads in Texas outlining NM’s radical abortion laws.
While Biden/Harris have stalled LNG exports France more than doubles imports from Russia.
RGF has published a new report on New Mexico's Clean Fuel Standard which passed in 2024: The Clean Fuel Standard will dramatically increase fuel prices.
New Mexico has a new $2 million Office of Housing. While some of what they plan to do sounds great in terms of reducing regulations, MLG and local gov’t are the real problems.
California is planning to ban plastic bags (again) due to failure of the first law banning plastic bags.
New Mexico’s Legislature is undergoing its own candidate switcheroo.
PNM changes ticker symbol to emphasize TX: TXNM.
On this week's Tipping Point conversation Paul and Wally discuss the announcement that Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz will be Kamala Harris' VP candidate. They discuss his record and pertinent statements.
In the morning paper there was an announcement by the owners of New Mexico Gas that they would be selling the company (pending PRC approval).
New Mexico's EV "transition" is stalling out.
UNM's college of population health requires a DEI pledge.
Gov. Lujan Grisham took out ads funded by New Mexico taxpayers touting the State as a destination for pro-abortion medical professionals.
A new report casts doubt on the merits of Universal Basic Income programs.
MLG is in India with her husband and several staff. Why is our "green" governor globetrotting with such enormous CO2 emissions?
On this week's interview Paul interviews former New Mexico House member Janice Arnold-Jones. They discuss New Mexico's elections and their security. How is New Mexico and Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver doing when it comes to accurate results this fall? Paul and Janice also discuss the SAVE Act passed by the US House which would (if adopted in the Senate) impose citizenship requirements on voters across the nation. New Mexico's House delegation all voted against the bill.
On the latest Tipping Point conversation Paul and Wally look at New Mexico's "economic strategic plan" and encourage listeners to take a moment to comment on it.
Biden lays out plans to impose 18 year term limits on the US Supreme Court. We have thoughts.
A new study claims climate change has stopped Sun Belt migration. Is that the case? What drives the migration in the first place? Why is New Mexico missing out?
Agree or disagree with MLG's crime goals, solving New Mexico's crime problem is more complicated than new laws.
Ford earnings were recently cut thanks to losses on EV's
A new study ranks New Mexico 2nd-worst for at risk youth.
Paul had a chance to visit with former Gov. Susana Martinez over the weekend.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Steve Jones, the GOP candidate to run against uber-left-wing Democrat Melanie Stansbury in Congressional District 1. Jones had been living in Ruidoso before the latest fires so Paul and Steve discuss that, but they quickly get into the myriad issues facing CD 1 and his solutions to them. They also discuss Stansbury's radical record and Jones' eclectic personal background. If you live in New Mexico's first congressional district or care what happens there, don't miss this episode!
Biden drops out, we have questions (lots of them).
NM's special session was a dud. On the bright side the ABQ Journal's John Trever had a great cartoon about it.
The Salt Fire and several smaller fires around Ruidoso earlier this summer were arson.
According to a Learner.com report that includes higher education, NM spends more than all but 3 other states on education.
Paul argues that we should make firing government workers common again.
Paul's opinion piece discusses his recent opinion piece on the Kids Count results and why we can no longer blame a lack of money for them.
California EV sales drop.
Argentina exits recession after free market reforms.
On this week's conversation Paul talks to Carol Wight of the New Mexico Restaurant Association. Paul and Carol discuss President Trump's plan to exempt tips from income taxes. They also discuss the culture of tipping at restaurants and other businesses.
They discuss the economics of the industry these days and how inflation is impacting restaurants. Carol and Paul then turn to the search for talent and how the Industry has worked to hold onto staff at a time when fewer Americans are willing to work.
Finally, Paul and Carol discuss the special session/crime/and ways her industry is attempting to bring better leadership to state and local government.
Paul went out of town for one of the momentous two week periods in American history. The debate was a disaster for Biden. An assasination attempt against Trump. JD Vance was named his VP pick, Biden appears to be staying in the presidential race. Also, the Secret Service received a massive black eye due to their incompetence (which will be analyzed further in the weeks ahead). Where does all this leave us here in New Mexico?
The Congressional SAVE Act would require proof of citizenship to vote. Democrats including Gabe Vasquez and NM's other Democrats voted no.
The special session kicks off on Thursday. Progressives and liberal Democrats are NOT happy. What is being discussed in the session? Are these policies concerning? Will they be effective in addressing crime? What should Republicans say and do about the session?
PNM has asked the PRC for a 23% rate increase to pay for ETA
Everything the left doesn't like is a "power grab." Specifically, we're talking about the left's reaction to some basic election related changes to City of Albuquerque elections.
Paul and Wally also provide an update on the status of election changes.
Las Cruces voters will vote on a massive tax hike this fall.
On this week's episode Paul sits down with newly minted House minority leader Rod Montoya to discuss the upcoming special session of the New Mexico Legislature. The session has been called by Gov. Lujan Grisham to discuss crime issues. Montoya and Gessing discuss the specific issues being put up for discussion, whether they will address New Mexico's serious crime issues, and whether the Legislature and Gov. can possibly address the issues without help from local politicians and judges.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Carlos Garcia of the Garcia Auto Group. They begin by discussing crime issues in Albuquerque, but mostly discuss the Gov.'s electric vehicle mandates which will do great damage to car dealers throughout New Mexico. Paul and Carlos discuss the Biden Administration's approach to the issue as well and where things are headed in the automotive industry.
This week's podcast is a recent talk in Albuquerque given by Corey DeAngelis. Corey is one of the most prominent and effective advocates for school choice. He is also the author of the new book "Parent Revolution: Rescuing Your Kids from the Radicals Ruining our Schools." Corey visited Albuquerque and Alamogordo to discuss his book and the growing movement for school choice on June 17, 2024.
On this week's Tipping Point conversation Paul sits down with former Congresswoman and current candidate for Congress Yvette Herrell. We discuss the fires that recently burned in Ruidoso and her work to reform federal lands policies. We also discuss the economy and various issues from free trade to inflation. Don't miss this important conversation!
The last few weeks have been busy. We can briefly run down some of my travels.
New Mexico is hoarding our money.
Blue Hawaii cuts income taxes.
Voices for Children (the left wing think tank) says minorities can't handle standardized tests: https://errorsofenchantment.com/voices-for-children-says-nm-minorities-cant-handle-standardized-tests/
Pew Center has disturbing population info for New Mexico.
Rebecca Dow had an opinion piece in the Albuquerque Journal recently in which she took MLG to task for focusing on lunch policies while ignoring student outcomes.
On this week's show Paul talks to private space expert Doug Messier about the latest from Virgin Galactic, their collapsing stock price, and challenges they face turning a profit in the future. Messier writes at his substack.
Paul and Wally Recap the Foundation's events with Corey DeAngelis in Albuquerque and Alamogordo. In driving to Alamogordo Paul also saw some of the impacts of the tragic fires burning in Ruidoso.
Oil and gas brought in $15.2 billion for NM in FY 2023. Artesia celebrated 100 years of oil and gas over the weekend.
Another disappointing result in Kids Count report.
There's negative evidence of MLG's covid lockdowns.
Virgin Galactic enacts 20 for 1 reverse stock split.
Paul recently sat down w/ KOAT TV to discuss a flight to Australia (and auditor's report dinging NMED) for shifting $2K flight to a $15K Business Class flight.
On this week's Tipping Point interview Paul talks to independent researcher Leanna Derrick. Derrick has been working to uncover and highlight the outsized influence of "progressive" group Emerge New Mexico which recruits, trains, and funds left wing women in public office throughout New Mexico. They discuss the "Emerge" group which operates in two dozen states. Who funds them? What do they do and what has been happening here in New Mexico with Emerge-recruited and backed candidates? Check out this important conversation. Leanna Derrick can be reached by email at: 68sharpie@gmail.com
In this week's interview Paul sits down with District 1 GOP congressional candidate Louie Sanchez. Louie has a compelling story having grown up in a family of modest means. He now is involved in the medical device industry and owns Calibers gun range. Paul and Louie discuss the medical industry, 2nd amendment issues, COVID, and Rep. Melanie Stansbury's radical record in Congress (among other things). Check out their conversation here!
Education reform and school choice evangelist Corey DeAngelis is heading to Albuquerque. Get your seat today.
Paul's opinion piece on 40% vote threshold ran on Sunday in Albuquerque Journal. The vote was sadly postponed. A bid to remove the City's "sanctuary city" status failed 5-4 as well.
Fauci testifies to Congress. Also notes 6ft rule was made up. Same with masking children. Lab leak theory (claims he never denied it) NIH scientists made $710 Million in royalties from drug companies and tried to hide it.
New Mexico's Maxeon deal is a mess even before ground is broken.
Virgin Galactic struggles to maintain stock listing.
State regulations on school meals (school officials say they aren't feasible). Santa Fe New Mexican coverage.
Biden Administration considers new regulations to increase home costs.
Solar project to destroy 3,500 Joshua trees in California.
Also in California they are banning reusable plastic bags now.
Rep. Gabe Vasquez is not a nice person.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Doug Peterson. Doug is the principal of Peterson Properties which owns a great deal of real estate in the Albuquerque area. Paul and Doug discuss rising property taxes and what he/we get in return for those taxes. Doug is outspoken on crime issues (follow him on Twitter here). What is going on with crime in the City and how is it impacting his business and tenants?
Good news/bad news on jobs for New Mexico.
The NIH director acknowledges that no science supported COVID distancing rules (but we did find an amusing old post from Sen Heinrich on social distancing and how to make a cloth mask).
A proposed move to shift vote threshold to 40% at city council is sensible and quite arguably "pro-democratic."
Paul recently spoke to KOAT about the City's $1.4 billion budget.
ABQ to build a 2nd BMX track.
50 year old Albuquerque cigar shop closing its doors.
On this week's Tipping Point interview Paul talks to Sammy Chioda. Sammy is a leader of the Gallup community. He owns a fantastic sports bar (Sammy C's Rock N' Sports Pub & Grille) with one of the largest memorabilia collections in America. Paul and Sammy discuss the challenges he has in finding workers, the hard-hit area's recovery from the COVID 19 pandemic, deteriorating road conditions on I-40 and more.
On this week's Tipping Point interview Paul talks to Sarah Smith. Sarah is a home school mom who got politically active during the COVID 19 pandemic. She is from Las Cruces and describes herself as a political moderate, but has become outspoken and tireless in her work on numerous issues facing her city, state, and the nation.
Paul and Sarah discuss her work with the Coalition of Conservatives in Action, New Mexico Freedoms Alliance, and the National Coalition for Health Integrity. You don't want to miss this important conversation!
NM ranks a poor 49th in US News and World Reports' "Best states" report: Paul and Wally discuss what makes up this report.
NM schools have more money to spend than any neighboring state (and the data don't even include recent spending growth).
NM students spend plenty of time in the classroom (and the international comparisons are really shocking).
New Mexico is the 46th-best state for doctors according to a new report from Wallethub.
MLG: NM's oil and gas boom to continue for at least 5 more years.
Shocking property tax assessments in Sandoval County. Is there anything that can be done?
On this week's interview Paul talks to Christopher Erickson a professor of economics at NMSU. Chris and Paul discuss a recent interview he gave to Newsweek about a report that New Mexico has seen a decline in immigrants. They discuss economic issues in New Mexico and what is holding its back. Then, the discussion shifts to immigration policy. Where are people coming from who are crossing the border? Why are they crossing? What would a sensible immigration policy be? You don't want to miss this informative conversation! You can find out more about his work here.
A Judge puts MLG’s forced 5 day school week on hold.
NM spends millions on solar projects not knowing how much power it will get.
We discussed the challenges UPS and FedEx are having w/ adopting EV’s but NM’s Environment Department is spending just under $500K to buy UPS “clean vehicles."
Rebecca Dow w/ OAK NM had an op-ed in the Albuquerque Journal highlighting why a recent federal report necessitates school choice.
Being a US senator is about more than bringing home pork.
If Sen. Heinrich is re-elected he is in line to massively increase his (negative) impact in Washington.
NM is currently under TWO public health emergencies.
On this Tipping Point interview Paul talks to Sam LeDoux. Sam is a recently elected member of the City of Española council. Sam, a longtime political activist with a long track record in politics is a Hispano Republican. Paul and Sam discuss how Republicans can win in northern New Mexico and what Sam believes are some of the issues/people holding them back. They also discuss the issues facing Española and what can (and can't) be done to turn things around.
On the latest Tipping Point conversation Paul and Wally discuss Gov. MLG caught on tape speaking to top Homeland Security staff. She certainly sounds more concerned about NM's marijuana industry than fentanyl and the border. She's "cranky" with the Secretary and holding the press "at bay".
APS school hosts a drag queen at an Albuquerque high school's prom.
53 New Mexico school districts have sued MLG over her 5 day school week mandate. The latest regulation being pushed by MLG's education department is totally nuts.
NM is ranked 31st among states to retire.
According to CNN, Ford lost $132,000 per EV sold in the first quarter of 2024 despite all the subsidies and mandates. UPS and FedEx run into troubles as they transition from gas to EV vans.
The US birth rate is declining, but those declines are not even across states. We look at where birth rates are highest and lowest among US states.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with UNM Finance Professor Reilly White to discuss issues in New Mexico's "Energy Transition" relating to electricity. While the transition was touted as zero cost or even a financial benefit for ratepayers. White believes that the transition will cost real money and will have some profound impacts on ratepayers and the future of PNM as an independent company alike.
On this week's Tipping Point conversation Paul and Wally discuss:
MLG calls a special session starting July 18. We don't have an exact agenda, but initial statements seem to point to some actual crime reforms, not gun grabs. Time will tell. RGF publishes a report on "The Viscolli Gun Loophole" Some friends of Michelle seem to receive preferential treatment.
A new federal education report highlights the need for dramatic improvements (even from the Federal Government's perspective.
New Mexico has seen an uptick in preschool attendance, but no word on results.
NM has had some level of state support for pre-K in place since 2005.
Our politicians are betting on economic losers including Virgin Galactic and Maxeon Solar.
Wallethub: NM employers face 4th biggest challenge finding workers. Meanwhile the LFC tackles workforce participation issues (again):
Paul's op-ed on Biden's horrible LNG policies hits papers over the weekend
On this week's interview Paul talks to Johnny Johnson, executive director of the New Mexico Trucking Association. Like the auto industry truckers are also being forced by government policymakers to embrace electric vehicles. Find out more about that here. Paul and Johnny also talk about the importance of the trucking industry and the prospects of self-driving trucks.
Truckers are an underappreciated but critical force in both the US and New Mexico economies.
Paul and Wally discuss the potential impact of the new Israel/Iran conflict. The good news is that America's relative oil independence has not caused oil prices to skyrocket. Also, will this change Congress' approach to the stalled aid bills?
Biden's permitting ban on LNG exports is a loser across the spectrum.
A former NPR executive recently said there's bias at NPR. Here's our story about NPR in New Mexico.
NM is the only state in US to see a drop in immigrant numbers from 10 years ago.
NM a mediocre 38th in Rich States, Poor States.
A security firm "fires" their Albuquerque client due to danger of working in "International District."
NY Times: Film subsidies are money losers.
A taxpayer-funded Southern NM abortion clinic location is still TBD.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Nella Domenici. Domenici is the Republican Party candidate for US Senate in New Mexico. She is longtime Senator Pete Domenici's daughter. Paul and Nella discuss what that was like and what formed her politics, her activism and efforts to reform education in New Mexico, and her candidacy for the US Senate and the issues she has with the incumbent.
New Mexico's House Republicans have elected new leaders. Paul and Wally know the players and discuss.
While I-40 crumbles NM asks feds for $250 million to reduce emissions on I-25.
The left doubles down on EV mandates. MLG touts EV mandates (the transition is "inevitable" but must be subsidized and mandated). Tesla's dropping sales, MLG/Biden mandates outstrip estimates.
NM ranks 30th overall in Wallethub tax burden report.
APD garners national headlines for wrong reasons but the City Council fails to hold Chief Medina accountable as the department continues to languish...due to lack of accountability.
RGF hosts an upcoming luncheon in Albuquerque and a dinner event in Roswell on April 22nd. Find out more about the book being discussed here.
On this week's interview Paul talks to William L. Kovacs. Kovacs was senior vice president for environment, technology & regulatory affairs for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and a chief counsel on Capitol Hill. Kovacs has written three books including his newest, “Devolution of Power: Rolling Back the Federal State to Preserve the Republic.” In this book Kovacs asks a basic question: Can a mismanaged federal government unite a polarized nation? If not, how do we divide?
Check out this informative conversation with a former political insider.
NM SIC invests $50 million in CA-based climate investment fund.
Diane Denish used her political connections to MLG to squash a playground proposed for her neighborhood.
CA fast food workers are losing their jobs as $20 minimum wage kicks in.
Despite data to the contrary Santa FE County adopted a plastic bag ban.
RGF attempted to challenge NM's campaign finance laws passed in 2019. It was recently rejected by a federal judge (we're appealing).
Former Rep. Williams Stapleton has been indicted on federal charges.
New Mexico's Public Education Department (under the direction of Gov. Lujan Grisham) has been aggressively pushing mandates on 5 day school weeks and a transformational change to the State's accreditation system. Paul talks to former NM legislator and current Logan Schools Superintendent Dennis Roch about these issues.
On this week's show Paul and Wally recognize the victims of the recent bridge collapse and boat incident in Baltimore and discuss how that will impact the economy.
New Mexico utility cost increases starting to kick in. But, at least in California, the carbon intensity of electricity generation is not falling.
Land Commissioner Garcia Richard is right about one thing.
Joe Biden has imposed his own EV mandate.
RGF releases candidate guide for legislative candidates (and the public): https://errorsofenchantment.com/rgf-releases-candidate-guide-for-new-mexico-legislative-candidates/
New Mexico receives 3rd-worst ROI on its taxes according to Wallethub.
The federal government hands Intel $8.5 billion in subsidies and another $11 billion in loan guarantees.
On this week's show Paul interviews retiring Democrat State Senator Bill Tallman. Tallman and Gessing discuss his long track record of public service prior to coming to New Mexico and serving as a State Senator. Tallman is a critic of New Mexico's capital outlay system and economic development approaches and Paul and Sen. Tallman discuss those. Tallman is also a supporter of electric vehicles and their subsidies and mandates which Paul questions him on.
Paul was in Alamogordo last week speaking to a Rotary club. He also had an opportunity to tour the New Mexico Museum of Space History.
A few Texans move to New Mexico & this is news?
Why do New Mexicans even pay taxes?
Despite Biden’s hostile policies toward the industry American oil production hit record levels this year amidst record global demand. You can find New Mexico data here.
NM ranked 2nd-most-dependent state on federal government by Wallethub.
City of ABQ begins taxpayer-funded "ride share" service.
Democrat Sen. Tallman (Bernalillo County) takes on New Mexico's broken capital outlay system in ABQ Journal op-ed.
On this week's Tipping Point interview Paul talks to Larry Behrens Communications Director of Power the Future, a pro-energy non-profit that works nationwide including here in New Mexico.
Paul and Larry discuss the start of the COVID emergency four years ago and their efforts to push back against the Gov.'s misguided and special-interest-favoring approach to COVID restrictions which destroyed numerous businesses and harmed New Mexico children (to name two impacts). Ultimately her policies failed to improve New Mexico's COVID outcomes.
The rest of the episode is dedicated to energy topics at the state and federal level from the recent legislative session and "clean fuels standard" and NM's ongoing boom. They also discuss the latest from the Biden administration and their lack of permitting for LNG projects.
Paul recently had a piece in National Review Online which details why New Mexico is a “Rich State with Poor People”
In a second op-ed Paul discusses the fact that after four years New Mexico Still has no limits on public health emergencies.
Paul experienced an electronic candidate nominating petition issue.
The 4 day school week saga continues.
No royalty rate increase was padded in the Legislature this session: Land Commissioner Garcia Richard reacted by taking her "marbles" and going home.
RGF recently requested cost information relating to County EV’s. These are costly equipment.
RGF provides comment on the Biden/Ben Ray Lujan vehicle kill switch.
The House approved the Laken Riley Act, mandating that immigration authorities detain non-citizens charged with crimes. All NM Dems voted “no.”
San Francisco voters recently (overwhelmingly) adopted Prop. F which will require single adults
on city welfare to be screened for drug use. Paul wants to make New Mexico as conservative as San Francisco.
In the recent Texas primary only six of the 16 anti-school-choice incumbents who ran for re-election won.
Six lost outright and four were forced into May 28 runoffs. Traditionally, incumbents enter runoffs as underdogs because a majority of voters have already expressed themselves against them.
Biden is wrong on shrinkflation of Snickers Bars.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with former NM legislator, former Congresswoman, and current candidate to regain her congressional seat, Yvette Herrell. Paul and Yvette discuss the current situation in Washington, especially immigration. They talk about the financial hole Washington is digging for the nation and what can be done about it. Finally, they discuss partisanship in Washington and whether she got along with any Democrats when she was in Congress.
In this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss a fantastic editorial/cartoon in ABQ Journal Sunday.
The Journal was reacting to the Gov. speaking to the ABQ Chamber of Commerce. Paul addressed the event immediately and explained that the Legislature did little for NM business this session.
Wallethub report: New Mexico is a good state to be poor.
Santa Fe County is pursuing a discredited plastic bag ban.
MLG: we need more housing (and signs bill subsidizing housing). Also MLG: we need to add costly new regulations on housing.
A few gun/crime bills that passed this session have been signed by MLG. Paul and Wally have thoughts.
On this week's interview Paul talks to attorney and author Philip K. Howard. Howard is Chair of Common Good and a bestselling author, and has advised both parties on needed reforms. In his new book, Everyday Freedom (Rodin Books, 2024), he pinpoints the source of powerlessness that is fraying American culture and causing public failure, and offers a bold vision of simpler governing frameworks to re-empower Americans in their daily choices. Paul and Howard discuss the US Constitution as a framework for our society and public sector labor unions as villians in driving division and failure in American society.
Our tax dollars are now subsidizing the marijuana industry and it makes no sense (regardless of your views on marijuana).
State capital outlay bill has $16 million for UnitedStadium.
PNM adds EV subsidies to existing/new subsidies and mandates. Also, Mercedes Benz said they'll continue producing gas powered cars after 2030.
An electric car charger has been pulled from the market over fears it could be hacked and used to attack the power grid.
A new report says 0.37% of vehicles on the road in NM are electric.
Is this article by 4 "progressive" NM legislators the most out of touch article on crime yet?
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Rep. John Block. Block has been a consistent voice for conservative principles in the Legislature since he took office in 2023. He also manages the Pinon Post, a political news site dealing with New Mexico politics. Block wound up coming in 2nd overall in the Foundation's Freedom Index this year. We discuss what happened and didn't happen in the 2024 session and how New Mexicans can work together to improve their state with the entire Legislature up for election later this year.
Paul and Wally both attended the Seinfeld show. They have numerous thoughts:
1) The City did a poor job with logistics.
2) The media didn't condemn the protests for simply targeting a Jewish comedian (same with Meow Wolf):
3) While Paul and Wally believe that protestors have the right to share their beliefs, they should be doing so with their elected officials.
Freedom Index votes are finalized for the 2024 New Mexico legislative session.
As Paul noted in a recent blog post moderate Democrats came to the rescue of sanity in the 2024 session.
Just in time for the election President Biden appears to be backing away from his EV overreach. MLG shows no signs of backing off. Meanwhile the ABQ Journal finally covered the adoption of costly new mandates requiring EV chargers.
The State is giving a cannabis business funds through the State's LEDA corporate welfare program.
Yesterday was President's Day. Here's our take on some of the best and worst.
Recapping some of the big issues/votes of the session:
Paid Leave (SB 3) narrowly fails on House Floor after having gone through the Senate.
The final tax bill has some small income tax rate reductions but doesn't do much: https://errorsofenchantment.com/taxes-and-spending-in-the-2024-session/
Worse, there are capital gains and corporate income tax hikes in the bill.
There WAS an interesting vote in the House that would have used the surplus effectively for economic growth but it failed: https://errorsofenchantment.com/attempt-to-return-more-of-surplus-to-new-mexicans-fails-on-party-line-vote/
There was an interesting vote in the Senate as well on simply indexing the tax to inflation: https://errorsofenchantment.com/nm-senators-go-on-the-record-on-indexing-social-security-tax-to-inflation/
Thankfully none of the alcohol taxes passed.
The Budget DOES include a prohibition on MLG's attempt to force districts to have 5 day school weeks, but she could line item veto that.
Clean Fuel Standard DID pass (unfortunately) with the NM Environment Department advertising: https://errorsofenchantment.com/nm-environment-department-advertises-in-support-of-legislation-currently-before-legislature/
Folks can find out how their legislators voted on the issues using our Freedom Index: https://riograndefoundation.org/freedom-index/#/
Paul and his daughter had a chance to meet Riley Gaines at the Legislature.
On this week's interview (which we are running BEFORE the end of the session due to its timely nature) Paul sits down with Todd Myers to discuss legislation moving in the Legislature to impose a Clean Fuel Standard (HB 41). What would such a law actually do if imposed in New Mexico? Would it raise gas prices? Would it improve the environment? How would its goals be accomplished?
On this week's interview Paul interviews Jim Winchester. Jim is Executive Director of the Independent Petroleum Association of NM. Jim's group specifically works with smaller oil and gas producers.
Paul and Jim discuss the various ways in which his industry is under attack in the 2024 legislative session. They discuss the economic impact of his industry and whether these attacks are new and what they actually would do to his industry and the environment.
Paul and Wally begin with a discussion of the most important issues being discussed in the Legislature. The big alcohol tax hikes aren't getting much traction, but the tax hikes contained in them are insane. The Gov. wanted $110 million to eliminate 4 day school weeks. Rep. Armstrong got an amendment successfully adopted to allow districts to continue 4 day weeks. Here's the vote. 14 states cut personal income taxes in 2024. New Mexico is not one of them despite its massive surplus. Paul had an opinion piece that ran throughout the state regarding attacks on the oil/gas industry. Nearly 3 years ago Albuquerque purchased land known as the Poole Estate. Since then it has sat collecting graffiti. An issue with EV's that even WE are surprised about.
On this week's episode Paul talks to former legislator and gubernatorial candidate Rebecca Dow. Dow is now heading up the Opportunity for All Kids project for the Rio Grande Foundation. She works every day to bring education reform and school choice to New Mexico. Paul and Rebecca discuss School Choice Week, education in the 2024 session, and goals for the OAK project.
Paul was recently in Ruidoso to talk about government regulations and EV mandates at a Conservative Conference. Other speakers include James Lindsay and Sheriff RichardClarke. Ben Luna organized the event.
RGF has continued its work in Santa Fe, mostly pushing back against bad bills. Here are a few:
HB 41: Clean Fuel Standard (soon to be on house floor)
HB 133 opens up the New Mexico Oil and Gas Act which has governed the industry for decades and enacts language pushed by environmental groups that will have the effect of increasing regulations to the point where small operators can’t do business in New Mexico. HB 48 would dramatically increase “royalties” (taxes) on the oil and gas industry which already generates huge amounts for New Mexico.
HB 140: EV subsidies. Related to what is going on at the Texas Border:
U.S. President Joe Biden on Friday paused approvals for pending and future applications to export liquefied natural gas (LNG)from new projects
Biden vetoes bipartisan bill on "Buy American Provisions" relating to EV's.
New tires every 7,000 miles? Electric cars save gas but tire wear shocks some Florida drivers
MLG seeks federal funding to assist in the border crisis. Why?
New Jersey plastic bag ban actually causes tripling of plastic usage.
On this week's interview Paul discusses the New Mexico Insurance Commissioner's efforts to kill Christian Health Sharing plans in New Mexico. Katy Talento is a health care expert and Executive Director of the Alliance of Health Care Sharing Ministries. We discuss how the plans work and why they became so popular in the wake of ObamaCare. We also discuss why the Insurance Commissioner would come after these plans. Paul and his family once were part of one prominent health sharing plan. He describes his experience.
Paul was in the Roundhouse on Saturday testifying against HB 41 (Clean Fuel Standard). Another bill heard during that hearing (HB 48) would increase taxes on NM's oil and gas industry. Both passed out of the Committee. Another bill, HB 114 attempts to squash the entire oil and gas industry.
MLG's state of the state address was interrupted 3 times by pro-Palestine/anti fossil fuel protests. The Gov. called them "courageous."
NM's Film Office produced a study justifying film subsidies. Paul and Wally pick it apart.
They are filming in downtown ABQ. We have thoughts.
What's wrong with 4 Day School weeks?
NM's politicians are pushing for a "progressive" tax system. What does the term mean and how important is it?
Even with "free"buses, ABQ bus ridership is far below pre-pandemic numbers (even worse than the Rail Runner).
MLG's mind-blowing Reagan Day proclamation.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Zach Fort of the New Mexico Shooting Sports Association about Gov. Lujan Grisham's plans to take away your guns during the 2024 legislative session. We know from this summer's radical and anti-constitutional executive order that this Gov. is not a believer in gun rights or the 2nd Amendment. What are her and the Legislature's plans and what can New Mexicans do to fight back?
The session begins today. For starters Paul sits down with Carol Wight of the NM Restaurant Association to discuss a proposal for paid leave as well as plans to increase taxes on alcohol.
These are a few of the pre-filed bills that we are looking at with some additional links:
HB 41: Clean fuel standard; https://sourcenm.com/2024/01/12/lawmakers-add-new-clean-fuel-standards-to-environmental-improvement-act/
HB 37: Limits on NM's capital gains deduction;
HB 48: increase royalty rates on oil and gas; https://capitalandmain.com/new-mexico-governor-kickstarts-effort-to-overhaul-oil-and-gas-regulation
NM to received $68 million to build an electric vehicle charging network. Details are scanty at this point, but the Gov. is very excited.
Hertz will sell off 20,000 EV's and purchase gas cars instead.
Rail Runner ridership rebounded a bit in 2023, but it remains 22% below pre-pandemic levels. Will it ever achieve pre-pandemic levels or are we at the "new-normal." What about other environmental solutions?
Even with the push to renewables NM's Land Office gets a higher percentage of its revenues from oil and gas than before the current commissioner took over.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Lori Coleman. Lori is a small-time miner in Southern, NM and the Florida mountains.
She owns Spanish Stirrup Rock Shop, LLC & the SS Stone Gallery in Luna County and Lincoln County, New Mexico.
She opposes plans by some politicians in New Mexico to make the region a 245,000 acre National Monument which Lori believes would have detrimental impacts on her business, access to the area, and the local economy.
Paul and Lori discuss serious issues with the process and how New Mexicans can push back against this land grab. One way is by adding your name to the linked petition.
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss the Foundation's ongoing work regarding electric vehicle mandates in New Mexico. The Foundation has also been requesting public records from various governments regarding EV deployment and costs.
New Mexico's 30-day legislative session is right around the corner. One of the big issues RGF will be working to oppose is tax hikes to create a system of paid family leave. Paul and Wally discuss issues with this proposal which was narrowly defeated last year as SB 11.
NM has another mammoth budget surplus ($3.4 billion) again which means there will be plenty of new spending. Sadly, neither the LFC nor the Gov.’s budgets have any tax reductions/reform or even rebates.
PNM’s merger has fallen through. Paul explains why RGF didn’t engage on either side.
On this week's Tipping Point New Mexico interview Paul sits down with Donna Illerbrun, Superintendent of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe's schools. Donna and Paul discuss the benefits of the Catholic education model, the shuttering of one school recently, New Mexico's "birth dearth" and outmigration of families, and how the Legislature could leverage Catholic and other non-public schools to improve outcomes for New Mexico children and families.
Happy New Year! On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss the holidays and some of their activities over the last few weeks. The Gov.'s EV charger mandate will be voted on by CID on Wednesday, January 3rd: https://errorsofenchantment.com/were-opposing-mlgs-next-ev-mandate-heres-how-you-can-help/ With all the subsidies for wind and solar, the State Land Office took in just 0.16% of its revenue from those sources. The State did generate record revenues from oil and gas, however. The latest Census data offers mixed news for New Mexico. Paul and Wally share the details. Now for something different: NM historical ties to Ohio.
On this week’s interview Paul sits down with 2022 New Mexico Republican candidate for Gov. Mark Ronchetti. Ronchetti and his wife Kristy currently create the No Doubt About It podcast, but Paul and Mark discuss the 2022 race, whether Republicans can win in New Mexico, and the impacts both the abortion issue and Donald Trump on his campaign. You don’t want to miss this episode!
RGF was in the ABQ Journal over the weekend discussing the Gov.'s proposed EV charger mandates and how New Mexicans can push back.
In related news Paul did a request of CNM. They said each level 2 EV charging station cost $45,000.
LFC report says New Mexico's welfare programs are ineffective despite spending $10 billion annually (they also find the best anti-poverty program is a job).
New Mexico will be blessed once again by a mind-blowing oil driven budget surplus, but the obsession continues over theoretical declines.
I recently sat down with KOAT to discuss IRB's and their use for the soccer stadium. This is a good time to discuss Industrial Revenue Bonds.
PED pushed to micromanage both public AND private schools at a meeting on Monday.
On this week's interview Paul sat down with Gabriella Hoffman. She recently spoke at an RGF luncheon on "Government's Quiet Land Grab." You can view her slides here.
Gabriella is director of the Center for Energy and Conservation at Independent Women’s Forum. She is a freelance media strategist, award-winning writer, and Townhall.com political columnist. She hosts the District of Conservation podcast and CFACT original video series “Conservation Nation.”
Among other topics in our conversation is the recently-announced planned 245,000 acre monument in southern New Mexico which would put a large tract of land off limits to most uses.
Learn more about her work at http://www.gabriellahoffman.com.
Albuquerque air board and the crisis of democracy.
Another land grab under way in Southern New Mexico.
NM PED is requesting a mind-blowing $5.1 billion next year. How has education spending grown and what is happening with results?
MLG's next attempt to force EV's on you (and how you can push back) using our KeepYourCarsNM.com site.
Trever's ABQ Journal cartoon is a masterpiece.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Jon Decker of Viante Foundation. Jon is President of the organization and local entrepreneur Dale Armstrong is the Founder. Viante was founded in 2017 to promote better schools, safer neighborhoods, and more economic opportunity in the state of New Mexico.
Paul and Jon discuss Viante itself and its goals as well as former Attorney General Hector Balderas' efforts to hide certain contracts with third party attorneys from the public and issues related to transparency and the previous/current AG.
MLG flew to Dubai recently for the latest UN climate conference. Paul recently appeared on Mark/Krysty Ronchetti's "No Doubt About it"podcast. He discussed NM's new EV mandate; More than 3,800 car dealerships to Biden: tap brakes ono EV mandates. You can read their letter here and an article about it here. PNMsays 23% of customers will have rooftop solar by 2040. On one hand this is more realistic than MLG's vehicle mandate, on the other it is driven by huge subsidies. RGF is holding its final luncheon of 2023 with Gabriella Hoffman discussing the government's quiet land grab. NewMexico fails in economic freedom, performs well in personal freedom inCato report. There was a debate recently between CA Gov. Newsom and FL Gov. DeSantis. When it comes to their economies, there is no comparison (but MLG is following theCalifornia model). The ABQ Journal recently had two stories that highlight trades vs. academia that highlight interesting issues. CatholicSchool Our Lady of Fatima closes: On one hand this is sad for our community (and highlights serious demographic issues), but on the other it highlights the gulf between public and private schools.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Doug Messier, an expert on the private space industry. You can find his Substack here. We discuss the latest announcements from Virgin Galactic regarding their business model, layoffs, and flight cessation in 2024. If you care about Spaceport America and the investments New Mexicans continue to make in the facility you don't want to miss this conversation!
Paul was shocked over the Holiday to receive a Thanksgiving card (taxpayer funded of course) from the Gov.
Over the Thanksgiving weekend I discovered (the hard way) the Rail Runner app has incorrect information on it.
VP Kamala Harris uses a gas stove posing with her husband on social media.
Job growth in the energy sector is NOT a win for the economy.
In the wake of the EIB's decision I wrote a piece outlining why their plan simply cannot work.
Conservative ABQ City councilor Dan Lewis and a majority of the Council recently voted to reform the City's unelected air board, sadly Mayor Keller vetoed their legislation.
New Mexico Supreme Court won't hear GOP appeal on district map.
On this week's episode Paul discusses an innovative approach to regulation that comes to us from Utah that has been embraced by red and blue states alike. The idea is the creation of "regulatory sandboxes" which allows live, time-bound testing of innovations under a regulator's oversight. Paul discusses the issue with Rees Empey, Director of State Govt. Affairs at the Utah-based Libertas Institute and Brian Knight is the Director of the Program on Financial Regulation at the Mercatus Center based in the DC area.
The "Sandbox" issue has bipartisan support in the New Mexico Legislature having been introduced by Democrats in the 2023 session.
Gov. Lujan Grisham's Environmental Improvement Board adopted her EV mandate. Find out more here and how RGF attempted to stop this debacle. According to a new LFC report New Mexico student results are not improving despite more money being pumped into education. The NY Times admits terrible learning loss due to COVID lockdowns like those of MLG. Unfortunately the Texas Legislature has again killed school choice. NM United get their stadium 7-2 vote. A self-described "libertarian" just won Argentina's election. Paul lived for a time in Argentina and has studied the place. Here's his take.
Sarah Jane Allen is the head of Moms for Liberty Bernalillo County chapter. Mom's for Liberty has been the recipient of attacks from left wing groups and the media. What IS Mom's for Liberty and why is Sarah Jane involved? We clear up questions and set the record straight on this show.
Paul attended and spoke at the EIB meeting. The Foundation continues to encourage New Mexicans to sign in opposition to the mandate at: KeepYourCarsNM.
All members of the GOP Legislature oppose MLG's EV mandate.
RGF pours cold water on "free buses," but a 6-3 majority on Council supports them anyway.
Paul and Wally recap what was decided in the election last week.
Virgin Galactic largely pulls out of New Mexico and other big news about the company.
I talked to Channel 7 about Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller's taxpayer-financed book.
ABQ spent $80,231.98 on Biden's trip back in August.
On this week's interview Paul interviews Andrew Handel, Director, Education and Workforce Development Task Force of the American Legislative Exchange Council about the new report of which he is lead author, "Index of State Education Freedom: A 50-State Guide to Parental Empowerment."
Paul and Andrew discuss various aspects of educational freedom and its components. New Mexico is not 50th or even 51st in this index of educational freedom, but how does it perform and what metrics does it do well on and which of them need work especially given the State's poor education outcomes.
It's election day. Here are some of the important issues and races being voted on in New Mexico and nationwide.
The City of Albuquerque Council will be voting on whether to make "free buses" a "permanent" program this Wednesday. A City report downplays the impact the program has had on crime rates, but in reality does nothing of the sort.
Our case against ABQ City Council's "donation" to Planned Parenthood has merit according to the judge.
According to the Washington Post home schooling grew dramatically in the wake of the COVID pandemic but not especially in New Mexico (according to the best available data).
Inflation has hit New Mexicans when it comes to car insurance.
Stories questioning the merits of EV's are coming fast and furious.
On this week's conversation Paul talks to Carlos Garcia of Garcia Automotive. Garcia is one of the State's largest car dealership networks. Paul even purchased his car from them!
Paul and Carlos discuss the business, its history, and the myriad problems with Gov. Lujan Grisham's headlong push to mandate electric vehicles. You can contact the EIB through this website set up by the Rio Grande Foundation called: KeepYourCarsNM.com.
While MLG and others talk a big game about "green" energy, wind and especially solar receive massive subsidies.
Toyota's chairman "I told you so" about EV's while alarm bells ring over slowing sales.
The most ridiculous government job in New Mexico? Also, here are details on the $6 million in "economic development for the Four Corners."
RGF supports the Senate Finance Committee Chair's effort to better understand film subsidy impact.
Albuquerque ranked 8th on a new list of retail theft hotspots.
MLG flies to Australia and brings back a hydrogen company.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Tom Clifford to discuss New Mexico's hidden pots of money and billions of dollars in unspent funds sitting around, often not generating a return. Tom Clifford was cabinet secretary of the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration under Gov. Susana Martnez. He now works as Research Director with New Mexico Tax Research Institute.
Why is New Mexico sitting on billions in unspent funds? Could there be a better approach? What should be done with those dollars instead?
Plenty to discuss on the EV front. I had an opinion piece that ran in numerous papers statewide on the Gov's EV mandate.
The City of Albuquerque is buying electric buses from a company favored by the Biden Administration which is also bankrupt. A busservice in Wyoming can't even get spare parts.
In yet another EV debacle the City of Albuquerque installed an electric shuttle (replacing the train from the Zoo to the Biopark). Apparently the shuttle doesn't work very well in the cold or heat and it likelywon't be ready for River of Lights.
According to a story from Yahoo Finance an EV could cost $13,000 MORE than the cost of a gas-powered vehicle to own over its lifetime.
A British columnist wrote this week: "We must put astop to the electric vehicle revolution – before someone gets hurt." One fire took 20,000 gallons of water to put out.
People are sending thousands of emails to the EIBthrough our new site: KeepyourcarsNM.com
A new report ranks New Mexico a mediocre 35th in school choice.
An Albuquerque city council candidate faked HAVING a felony conviction.
On this week's conversation Paul sits down with energy journalist and commentator Robert Bryce. Bryce is the author of 6 books on energy and writes regularly at his substack. We discuss various energy issues, but especially focus on Gov. Lujan Grisham's headlong push for electric vehicle mandates and subsidies and why they are so flawed. You don't want to miss this timely conversation!
RGF launches "Keep Your Cars"initiative. According to a new poll Americans are not ready to buy EV's.
New Mexico fails to win race for "hydrogen hub."
Big-spenders in Santa Fe are looking for massive spending growth.
New Mexico has a welfare problem.
NY Times story highlights New Mexico's education woes.
In the wake of his post on Sen. Tallman's opinion piece in ABQ Journal he had a lengthy conversation with the Senator. Paul shares a bit about the article and his conversation.
New Mexico is an exporter of college graduates.
Arizona's ESA's are being taken up by those in disadvantaged communities:
Amid service cuts some at ABQ City Council want to make"free" bus fares permanent.
Paul talks energy policy and its impacts with Kathleen Sgamma of the Western Energy Alliance.
The impact of the Middle East war on energy prices.
Kathleen Sgamma sets the record straight in a House of Representatives hearing.
The impact of Biden administration policies on energy in New Mexico and nationwide.
Conflict issues related to Secretary Deb Haaland's daughter and her political activities.
Access to oil and gas under attack on federal and state lands in New Mexico.
The problems being created by the rapid push for electric vehicles.
Paul and Wally discuss the wonderful International Balloon Fiesta taking place as well as the tragic situation in Israel and some of the geopolitical impacts such situations would traditionally have in global energy markets.
World’s largest EV charging station relies on diesel generators. Biden is also coming for your gas vehicle.
In a new opinion piece RGF board member Julie Wright argues the federal government shouldn’t dictate credit card fees.
According to a new LFC report New Mexico's workforce participation remains a challenge. Sadly, the LFC is lacking inrecommendations.
Even amidst an unprecedented oil boom New Mexico has weak personal income growth.
KOAT does an in-depth story on NewMexico’s economically-ineffective film subsidies.
On this week's interview Paul interviews Carol Wight of the New Mexico Restaurant Association and the local HELP coalition regarding HELP's efforts in this fall's local elections. Paul and Carol discuss the political dynamic in Albuquerque and previous (successful) efforts by HELP to transform City Council in a more positive direction. What are their past accomplishments? What needs to be done still?
Who are the candidates up for election this fall and when does early voting start?
On this week's show Paul and Wally discuss a few big and important topics of long-standing interest to RGF.
MLG's Construction Industries Division is planning to implement a new EV charging station mandate that will have negative impacts on apartment developers and commercial real estate alike. The ABQ Journal has an excellent editorial and opinion piece.
A new LFC report trashes New Mexico's film subsidy program.
Over the next month Mayor Keller will be attempting to push a lease for the United Stadium through City Council. There are real issues with the proposal as it stands now.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Pete Dinelli. Dinelli has a long track record of public service. He's an unapologetic progressive Democrat and blogs at: https://www.petedinelli.com/
Paul and Pete discuss homeless policy in Albuquerque and some of the issues surrounding it. They also discuss a lot of data surrounding homelessness and the numerous factors that make homeless policy so difficult to implement successfully.
Paul is in Savannah, Georgia. He discusses what has brought him there. Paul also recaps the OAKNM education conference which took place on Friday.
The shooters who precipitated MLG's anti-gun health order were captured. They have (not surprisingly) been involved with the criminal justice system in the past and were not likely to be deterred by MLG's anti-gun orders.
A MLG-appointed New Mexico district judge rules that the homeless can't be removed from public spaces.
How will MLG's potential EV mandate actually be enforced? Paul has a detailed answer.
Interior Secretary Deb Haaland's daughter has close ties to the Cuban government. This is especially concerning because hostile foreign nations have a long track record of supporting anti-energy forces in the US.
Our op-ed on MLG's gun order and her long-standing disdain for "democracy" ran statewide.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Zach Fort of the New Mexico Shooting Sports Association. They discuss the Gov.'s unconstitutional gun grab. They discuss legal actions being taken to rein the Gov. back in and what will happen next with gun rights and public emergencies in New Mexico.
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss the latest on MLG's gun order and where we see things going from here.
On a related note Kohl's in Coronado Mall has abruptly closed. Employees interviewed by KOB TV cited theft as a leading issue.
Biden's own Energy Secretary experienced some issues firsthand and NPR was there to report on them. Also, a bill was passed in the US House that would stop states from banning gas vehicles. Only a few Democrats voted for it including Gabe Vasquez. RGF has also joined the Save our Cars coalition.
Poverty has risen quickly between 2021 and 2022.
An energy conference organized by Democrats in downtown Albuquerque and with speakers including Sen. Heinrich drew protesters opposed to carbon sequestration and nuclear. Do supposed environmentalists even WANT a solution?
Another universal basic income program rolled out in LasCruces. A prior program was privately funded, this one is funded with federal tax dollars. Neither really fit the "basic income" model.
Launches are happening at Spaceport America, but the ABQJournal is questioning the viability of Virgin Galactic and legislators are questioning the Facility's financial impact.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Estancia Valley Classical Academy parent Craig Springer and teacher Traci Erickson. EVCA was until recently affiliated with Hillsdale College and its Barney charter school project.
Paul believes EVCA is one of the "crown jewels" of New Mexico's K-12 education system and developments at the school are critical to the movement for a freer Land of Enchantment.
MLG goes full totalitarian with a ban on carrying guns in public in Bernalillo County.
As COVID cases rise and some places reinstate restrictions, RGF notes that he and the skeptics were right and MLG and the lock downers were wrong.
A local blogger believes that since she won the election she was right about COVID.
MLG asks for a $30 million Literacy Institute.
As we move toward the EIB making a decision on MLG's EV mandate RGF posts a fairly comprehensive list of issues with EV's and EV mandates in particular.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Rep. Larry Scott. Rep. Scott represents part of Hobbs, NM in the Legislature as a Republican. Paul and Larry discuss the electricity situation in New Mexico and whether nuclear might be a part of the "energy transition." They also discuss other issues with New Mexico's electricity reliability and price.
Paul and Larry then talk about the prospects for gross receipts tax reform and how a bill passed in 2019 impacts those prospects. Also, Rep. Scott has introduced legislation to assist New Mexico local governments hold onto additional tax revenues that could assist with replacing revenue lost previously as well as potential lost revenue from needed GRT reform.
During this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss their respective recent trips out of state and their coincidentally winding up on the same flight.
With the recent passing of former NM Gov. Bill Richardson, Paul and Wally discuss him and his mixed legacy in New Mexico.
Joe "The Plumber" who once spoke at an RGF-sponsored event also passed recently. Paul and Wally discuss his rise to notoriety.
Some leftist southern NM Democrats are calling for NMSU to censor conservative speakers like Matt Walsh.
Op-ed; Time for an All of the Above approach to education (plus our conference).
More work needed to address NM's doctor shortage, especially in rural NM.
Oxfam has a report on "Best States to Work." The report misses the boat, but even more importantly is the fact that with a $1 billion + annual budget it raises questions about what the organization is telling impoverished foreigners.
On this week's conversation Paul sits down with Larry Behrens of Power the Future, an energy advocacy group.
We discuss Gov. Lujan Grisham's plans to mandate electric vehicles in New Mexico, the Administration's hypocritical purchase of an airplane, and ongoing ways in which the Biden Administration is hindering energy freedom and making Americans poorer.
This week Paul joins Wally from Chicago where he is attending the State Policy Network conference of free market think tanks.
Paul and Wally both attended a presentation on carbon capture held by the American Petroleum Institute in Albuquerque. Wally has significant experience with this technology and the two discuss its potential in New Mexico.
NM has another massive surplus. Will the politicians blow it again? What should they do?
Paul further flushes out the concept of MLG-nomics.
Along with unprecedented revenue there have been unprecedented increases in construction costs. What can be done about rising costs? Is the federal government helping?
ABQ’s contract w/ James Ginger has been revised.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Carla Kugler. Carla is President & CEO at Associated Builders and Contractors New Mexico Chapter. She represents the non-union construction industry in New Mexico. Carla recently won "Executive of the Year" from the New Mexico Society. of Association Executives. In addition to that Paul and Carla discuss New Mexico's construction industry and their constant struggle to find good workers and what they are doing about it as an industry. Carla also addresses the latest on projects in Bernalillo County/ABQ that by law give unions favorable treatment when it comes to government-funded construction. projects.
On this week's show local government issues are the most impactful, but there remains a lot happening in New Mexico.
BernCo property tax assessor is playing an"interesting" game.
The BIG solar deal announced last week piles subsidies ontop of subsidies.
Santa Fe's excise tax on property sales is coming up for avote on Wednesday.
Mayor Tim Keller says AFSCME "runs" Albuquerque.
Brian Domitrovic is an intellectual historian interested in the history and development of supply-side economics. He is the author of the book "Taxes Have Consequences: an income history of the United States" which was published in 2022 and he co-authored with Arthur B. Laffer and Jeanne Sinquefield. Brian spoke at a recent Rio Grande Foundation luncheon so we sat down to discuss tax history, Art Laffer, and more.
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss. a recent opinion piece highlighting the fact that the environmental left doesn’t care about “democracy” or even addressing CO2 emissions.
President Biden was in Albuquerque recently touting "Bidenomics." In reality his economic policies have been a complete failure.
Speaking of that, a new rule from the Biden Administration will increase the price of roads and other public works projects. During that same trip he also placed some of the best uranium available in the US off limits to development.
A new study claims NewMexico is the very worst state to live in. Are they right? Paul and Wally often criticize the New Mexico government, but they have a lot to say about this report.
Finally, while the Gov. is pushing to force New Mexicans to buy electric cars, she is having the state buy a plane (partially for her use).
On this this week's conversation Paul interviews former State Rep. and governor candidate Rebecca Dow. Rebecca is currently heading up the "Opportunity for All Kids New Mexico" education project for the Rio Grande Foundation. They discuss the upcoming education reform conference and some important developments in the area of parental rights in education. Check out this important and timely conversation!
On this week's Tipping Point conversation Paul and Wally discuss the complexity of the GRT, changes to the tax going back to the Richardson Administration, and how we need to extend the logic of GRT "pyramiding" changes for health care to other areas of the economy.
New Mexico ranks 34th in Wallethub's best states for health care report. We take some time to dive into this report which focuses on one of the most important economic issues of the 2023 session.
Conflict over informing parents on student academic performance at APS highlights fundamental problems with public employee unions, especially in education.
The Deane Waldman interview remains up on Youtube, but NM's attorney general Raul Torrez has put New Mexico on the record in support of government censorship of social media companies in the case of Missouri v. Biden.
It's back to school. A survey sent to New Mexico's 4th graders asks 11 year olds if they’re transgender, gay, bi, and if they use ze/hir pronouns.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Dr. Deane Waldman. Deane is a retired pediatric cardiologist from UNM Hospital and lived for decades in Albuquerque. He now lives in Texas so Paul and Deane compare and contrast the two. Then, Deane, who writes extensively on issues in American health care, talks broadly about the impact of the Pandemic on American health care, how Americans' rights were abused by the government, and what can be done about it. They also discuss the broader medical provider shortage. Finally, Paul asks Deane if any of the declared presidential candidates in either party "get it" when it comes to health care.
Paul had an opinion piece about his recent trip to Texas and observations. It ran in Sunday's ABQ Journal. Not surprisingly, the article drew heated responses from those who despise Texas and others who appreciated the perspective.
The left wing "Searchlight" New Mexico did a story which was obviously an attempt to make MLG seem like a "moderate" on the environment.
Paul sat down w/ KOAT to discuss the Mayor's proposed bike trail. In a separate story he also discussed the latest plans for a United Soccer Stadium.
New Mexico subsidizes film industry fat cats.
Yet another report slams New Mexico's education system. MLG applauds more spending.
We have a luncheon on August 8.
RGF is hosting an education event on September 22nd.
On this week's conversation Paul sits down with Reilly White, PhD. Reilly is Associate Professor at the Anderson School of Management at University of New Mexico. They discuss Professor White's perspectives on New Mexico's economy, some of the core issues facing the state, and his views on what can be done to improve things. White is a breath of fresh air from academia and you don't want to miss this conversation.
Paul was in Carlsbad recently. He discussed a number of issues there and met with the Mayor and other community leaders. The oil and gas continues to boom there. Paul offers specific details of his visit here.
As the first paid tourists get ready to launch out of Spaceport America the facility is already going to need millions of dollars in repairs.
Albuquerque is poised to construct an $80 million 7-mile-long bike trail.
The US Forest Service admits that it set yet another major fire from summer of 2022.
New Mexico is a good place to be born if you want to BE a billionaire according to a new report.
The Biden Administration is now coming after your dishwasher. The DOE's proposal seeks to cut energy use by 27% and water use by 34% in new household dishwashers made or imported into the United States. RGF filed comments in opposition.
As the Gov. pours $100 million more of our money into pre-K, at least one national media outlet is willing to ask whether this is a sensible policy.
RGF has an upcoming luncheon with previous podcast guest Brian Domitrovic of the (Arthur) Laffer Center on August 8. He will share a "tax history of the United States." We hope you can attend!
On this episode Paul sets down with Jarrett Skorup, Vice President for Marketing and Communications, with the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, a Michigan based free market think tank. They discuss the fifth anniversary of the Janus Decision by the U.S. Supreme Court and update New Mexicans on right to work for public employees and a study that Mackinac produced which found that large numbers of New Mexicans left their government union.
In this week's discussion Paul interviews Chris Hunter. Chris works with Four Corners Economic Development in Farmington and NAPI. Paul and Chris discuss the ongoing challenges and successes in the Four Corners economy as it works to overcome a return to low natural gas prices and the shuttering of San Juan Generating Station. The balance of the conversation takes on hydrogen, Gov. Lujan Grisham's plans for hydrogen in New Mexico, and the environmental groups' opposition to those plans. Don't miss this important discussion!
Paul and his family took a trip to Texas recently. RGF often cites data highlighting the economic success of Texas. He shares a bit about the trip and Texas’ economic success. Also, Buc’ees are awesome!
NM’s already small share of national GDP shrank between 2012 and 2022.
Gov. MLG plans to push ANOTHER EV mandate through the unelected Environmental Improvement Board.
Currently the Gov. has imposed a 7% mandate as of 1 year ago by 2025. The Gov. plans on imposing a 43 percent mandate starting in 2027 with that requirement going to 82% by 2032. The Gov. has also called on the Biden Administration to impose strict regulations on trucks.
An RGF op ed on Kids Count ran statewide. Also, RGF is hosting a statewide conference on education reform through its Opportunities for All Kids project on September 22nd.
Sen. Heinrich & White House tout mother of four living in ABQ’s “International District” being given $10,500 for “updated and more powerful and efficient electric system, advanced light bulbs, air sealing, high efficiency shower heads, low-flush toilets and other improvements.”
The City of ABQ also received $18.2 million in federal $$ for 20 buses. That’s $910,000 per bus. According to the American Public Power Association An average diesel transit bus costs around $500,000, compared with $750,000 for an electric bus.
On this week's special Independence Day show Paul interviews Col. Jim Quick, USAF (Ret.). Quick is President of the New Mexico chapter of Folds of Honor. Paul and Col. Quick discuss his organization's work providing educational scholarships to the spouses and children of military members who have fallen or been disabled while serving in the United States Armed Forces. They also discuss his military background, what drew him to New Mexico, and what NM can do to attract more such retirees.
On this week's conversation Paul sits down with Judge Glock to discuss the homelessness crisis. Glock is a researcher and Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute. He was also in Albuquerque recently to speak at a Rio Grande Foundation luncheon.
Paul and Glock discuss homeless policy nationwide and especially in New Mexico's largest city, Albuquerque. What factors are worsening the situation and what cities/states are doing to improve or worsen the situation?
Some interest groups are lobbying for a public bank in New Mexico. Others want a "green" bank. What's going on with these proposals?
Liability in the event of a disaster. The submarine loss raises questions for New Mexico about Spaceport and whether taxpayers could be on the hook in the event of a disaster. This is especially relevant as the first paying customers are set to fly out of Spaceport America this week.
Tuesday the 27th is the 5th anniversary of the Janus decision. New Mexico government employee unions saw the biggest decline in membership of any state thanks in part to RGF educational efforts.
New Mexico has $70.84 billion invested in various funds. It is not a poor state, but it is a poorly governed state:
ABQ City Council embraced casitas and rejected the "weak mayor" change for local government. Paul and Wally are pleased by the casita decision and understand the lack of willingness to switch governments. Also, RGF helped push Albuquerque Public Schools to publish their recent budgets.
Lujan Grisham wants feds to follow California's lead on zero emission trucks. Here's what that means.
One of the very best things that happened during the 2023 legislative session was expansion of "529 plans" that can be used to save for education (now they can be used for both college and K-12). This week's show is an interview with Carolyn Fittipaldi, Marketing Director, and Natalie Cordova, Executive Director of The Education Trust Board of New Mexico. This is an important tool for New Mexicans to save for all kinds of education options. You should listen AND share this episode with anyone interested in improving and saving for education in New Mexico.
The new Voices for Children "Kids Count" report came out. New Mexico is dead last (again). Paul and Wally discuss the issue at length based on posts here and here.
NM has 3rd heaviest "sales" tax burden in US.
Why is APS no longer posting their budgets?
A new report from Pew finds NM is one of 18 states that lost population from July 2021 to July 2022 and highlights how much states gained and lost.
New Mexicans shouldn't get too excited about those one-time rebates.
There are several new updates on gas stoves.
As the City of ABQ considers a change in governance structure, comparisons are being made between Phoenix and Albuquerque. We make a comparison of our own based on population growth.
On this week's episode Paul interviews Dr. Howard Gogel of Southwest Gastroenterology to discuss the accomplishments of the 2023 legislative session when it comes to New Mexico's medical provider shortage. Yes, they passed medical malpractice reform and some reforms targeted at addressing gross receipts taxes for doctors, but will they move the needle on getting more medical providers to New Mexico? You don't want to miss this important episode!
Rio Grande Foundation Event on Wednesday, June 14th.
The effort to put several problematic policies on the ballot as a referendum has run into a significant roadblock due to our Secretary of State, a judicial ruling, but specifically a provision relating to “public peace, health or safety” of the state.
Deb Haaland encountered Navajo protestors on her recent trip to “celebrate” Chaco limits.
NM’s left wing land commissioner imposes arbitrary 1-mile barrier around schools. What will be the impact?
Paul recently visited Alamogordo/Silver City.
According to the National Weather Service, May 27 is the average date for Albuquerque’s first 90+ degree day. It is June 13 and the first 90-degree day is likely to (finally) come Thursday. The yearly. The Number of Days of 90 °F in Albuquerque by Year makes for interesting viewing.
New report: COVID created in Wuhan Lab through classified Chinese military bioweapons program. According to a new report from the London Times, “Investigators who scrutinized top-secret intercepted communications and scientific research believe Chinese scientists were running a covert project of dangerous experiments, which caused a leak from the Wuhan Institute of Virology and started the Covid-19 outbreak.
The US investigators say one of the reasons there is no published information on the work is because it was done in collaboration with researchers from the Chinese military, which was funding it and which, they say, was pursuing bioweapons.
According to recent analysis New Mexico’s FY 2023 budget surplus was north of $4.1 billion.
New Mexico uses revenue windfall to boost current, future spending while other states including Nebraska are reducing taxes (more interesting data from LFC).
On this Tipping Point conversation Paul interviews Gerges Scott. Gerges is a Senior VP at Agenda, an Albuquerque-based public relations firm. Gerges was recently "across the pond" for conferences in Scotland and England. Gerges and Paul also discuss the Holtec facility which was recently approved in Southeast New Mexico and its importance both for the New Mexico economy AND for its potential role in reigniting America's nuclear industry and efforts to bring zero-carbon energy to market.
Finally, Paul and Gerges talk about the "fake news" from a left-wing advocacy group which claims that he has a state contract to single-handedly transition New Mexico's economy away from oil and gas.
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally briefly discuss Albuquerque's City Council consideration of putting significant governance changes on the ballot.
Meanwhile, the City recently asked volunteers to help clean up bus stops.
New Mexico's new "529" law takes effect on June 16. The new law gives additional K-12 savings choices to New Mexicans.
The Legislative Finance Committee is undergoing a leadership change. RGF and recent LFC report both highlight New Mexico's workforce participation rate challenges. Furthermore, according to the LFC report: Oil and gas generates more than half of general fund revenues.
Secretary of Interior Haaland ignores Navajo objections and imposed a 10 mile buffer around Chaco Monument.
Another round of national coverage on Mississippi's education miracle.
New Mexico uses revenue windfall to boost current, future spending while other states including Nebraska are reducing taxes (more interesting data from LFC).
On this week's interview Paul talks to Vance Ginn, PhD. Vance is an economist who worked in the Trump Administration, is Founder and President of Ginn Economic Consulting, LLC, Host of the Let People Prosper Show Podcast, and is Chief Economist or Senior Fellow at Multiple Think Tanks.
Paul and Vance discuss reports claiming that California has a lighter tax burden than Texas, ensuring sounds state budgets, and they even dive into immigration policy.
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss the contents of the debt ceiling deal. While they agree that it is better than nothing, their "real" interest now shifts to the political battle between the mainstream and left/right in both parties.
Virgin Galactic had a successful launch last week, but their stock plummeted simultaneously. Why?
In education-related news, Albuquerque Public Schools adopted a massive $2.16 billion budget last week. The Associated Press discovers “Mississippi’s miracle.” The media (and a new study) falsely claim that pre-k is improving New Mexico education.
There is an impending battle over a massive Santa Fe solar development. Will NIMBY interests or the environmental activists win?
On this week's interview Paul talks to Joe Abbin. Abbin is an Albuquerque author and 36 year veteran of the Albuquerque Police Department. They discuss Albuquerque's crime issues as laid out in his book, ABQ Blues. You can read the book for yourself at the link.
Virgin Galactic says it will launch its latest mission from the Spaceport on May 25. We wish them the best.
MLG recently spoke to Politico on energy. She made numerous factually incorrect statements. Paul fact-checks her comments and wonders why she'd say so many obviously wrong things. MLG ALSO claimed AR-15's are "automatic weapons" which is not in fact true.
A California city that has banned gas stoves has exempted a celebrity chef and his new restaurant from the ban.
UNM's budget explodes thanks in part to "free college." This is on top of an already big higher education infrastructure.
MLG's alcohol tax vetoes anger the left (and they're not entirely wrong).
California's wet winter/spring could save the west from blackouts and brownouts.
As the battle continues to wage in Washington over raising the debt ceiling Democrats have claimed that Trump's tax cuts are causing the budget shortfall. The reality is federal revenues rose after Trump's tax cuts.
Local advocates argue that “free” buses are working for the City. Based on what?
On this week's interview Paul talks to Jodi Hendricks. Jodi is Executive Director of the New Mexico Family Action Movement (NMFAM). The group is one of the organizations working to put several passed and signed during the 2023 legislative session on New Mexicans' ballots. We discuss the State's challenging referendum process which is made all the more challenging by a hostile Secretary of State. What's behind the bills and efforts to overturn them? How can average citizens get involved? You don't want to miss this conversation!
NM's Supreme court weighs in on PNM merger. It will consider the merger itself, not the new PRC. The massive California snowpack could alleviate electricity woes on the Western grid at least temporarily thanks to a boost in hydro-power.
A recent blog from Cato Institute notes that national transit ridership remains depressed and is likely to remain so. Meanwhile, the ABQ Journal decries free buses' role in facilitating crime. Ford loses $66,446 for every EV it sells.
Will ABQ become a “shanty town” if Mayor Keller gets his way?
The proposed interim nuclear storage facility in SE New Mexico has been approved. Meanwhile the ABQ Journal editorial board recently called out MLG & the Congressional delegation for opposing the facility.
On this week's interview Paul interviews Jonathan Williams Chief Economist and Vice President for the Center for State Fiscal Reform at the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). ALEC is America’s largest nonpartisan, voluntary membership organization of state legislators dedicated to the principles of limited government, free markets and federalism.
Paul and Jonathan discuss the new Rich States, Poor States index that he puts together for ALEC and what it means for New Mexico and its neighbors. They also discuss Art Laffer and Steve Moore, both of whom are involved in the project and have generated headlines recently. The Index examines historical policies and their impact on state economies as well as expected future economic performance. How does New Mexico rank on each?
Finally, they address the issue of pensions and government liabilities and a second report Jonathan is involved in called "Unaccountable and Unaffordable."
Paul flags his latest article in National Review’s Capital Matters in which he argues that New Mexico is like a lottery winner in all the good and bad ways.
US News report on “Best States” ranks New Mexico 47th overall. Is this a sound report? Paul dives into the details.
“Free” money is popular at least to those receiving it.
As NM’s entire Congressional delegation pushes a 10 mile buffer around Chaco Canyon monument at the same time as the Navajo Nation rejects ANY Buffer.
New York bans gas stoves in new buildings.
MLG has been named to the US Climate Alliance Executive Committee. MLG touts "hydrogen hub" to ABQ Chamber but more interesting is her plan to “create the largest statewide tutoring program per-capita in Country.” The Gov. remains unwilling to admit that her own COVID response did great harm to New Mexico students.
Sen. Heinrich announces his reelection bid for Senate.
According to Wallethub New Mexico has the worst problem w/ illegal drugs. Other studies find NM ALSO has the highest rate of deaths from alcohol, but the Legislature wants to “solve” the situation through a simple tax hike?
Virgin Galactic says it is going to have a crewed mission in “late May” and begin commercial flights in “late June.” Are these “make or break” missions for Virgin Galactic?
On this week's conversation (and to commemorate the 500th episode of Tipping Point NM) Paul sits down with national taxpayer advocate Grover Norquist, president of Americans for Tax Reform. They discuss the debt ceiling debate and abusive practices of the IRS along with the tax and education reform successes being achieved in numerous states.
This is the 500th episode of Tipping Point New Mexico. It is our 500th episode and we started in June 2018. Where will the next 500 episodes take us?
Wally and Paul discuss a so-called controversy ginned up by a lefty group in NM. They are annoyed NM gave a $100K contract to "diversify the NM economy away from oil and gas" to a conservative lobbying firm. On that note, Paul's latest op-ed discusses New Mexico's fundamentally flawed approach to economic development.
A work requirement for welfare programs worked in the 1990s and was included in Speaker McCarthy's deficit reduction plan. Why not do it again (NM's delegation is opposed)?
The conversation begins on changing Albuquerque's system of government: https://errorsofenchantment.com/should-albuquerque-embrace-a-city-manager/
Another measuring stick illustrates how New Mexico's "gusher" of revenues has continued and built up our deferred spending.
MLG touts New Mexico's low unemployment number, but the State's job growth is mediocre since COVID.
Environmental groups' lawsuit seeks to end oil and gas extraction on federal lands.
Despite reports of being among the worst in the nation in terms of ozone pollution, it is good to remember that ozone pollution is falling in Albuquerque and the nation as a whole.
On this week's conversation Paul sits down with Scott Appelman, founder and president of the Rainbow Ryders ballooning company which began in Albuquerque and works in several nearby cities. They discuss the economic impact of the industry on Albuquerque and New Mexico, challenges the industry faces, and why his company has been growing so quickly in other cities including the Phoenix area. We specifically address the potential for a New Mexico United Soccer stadium at Balloon Fiesta Park.
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss the Gov.'s use of the line-item veto in the latest tax bill. While Paul believes very strongly that the Gov. had the legal authority to use the line-item veto he and Wally find it amusing that NM Democrats suddenly care about process and separation of powers.
You can look at the New Mexico budget & find how film subsidies are accounted for (they reduce corporate income taxes) and how they are likely to grow for years to come.
"Budget cuts" hit Santa Fe schools. The reality is Santa Fe's school spending continues to grow.
Paul offers an update on gas stoves including public comments.
In an effort to address the federal debt situation Speaker McCarthy has unveiled a common sense plan.
Biden rule on mortgages punishes responsible borrowers and is the kind of policy that created the housing crisis of 2008.
Paul was briefly blocked by Rep. Stansbury on Twitter. That situation has been resolved.
On this week's conversation Paul talks to Mark Abramson the owner of Los Ranchos Gun Store. They discuss gun issues in New Mexico from the past session as well as the Gov.'s plans to attack gun rights in the 2024 session. Also, Mark and Paul discuss the efforts by gun sellers to organize under one organizational umbrella and fight back.
On this Tipping Point discussion Wally and Paul take on a number of fiscal issues:
Contrary to the views of NM politicians, lower taxes CAN result in higher revenues.
According to the latest Rich States Poor States report New Mexico sticks out relative to its neighbors (in a bad way). New Mexico's economy isn't in great shape, but according to a report from Pew the government has seen more tax revenues than any other state since January of 2020. Based on the recently passed budget in Santa Fe Paul put together a chart to illustrate just how quickly spending has grown.
New Mexico's capital outlay process has always been corrupt, but the $10 million for an abortion clinic added to this year's bill only highlighted the corruption.
Insanely Germany has shuttered its last 3 power plants (resulting in more coal and wood being burnt). Meanwhile the
Biden Administration is planning to force EV's on Americans whether they want them or not.
Paul had a chance to talk to KOAT Channel 7 about the ongoing cost of the DOJ consent decree. Folks in ABQ’s “International District” want a grocery store now that Wal Mart has closed but they vote for people who won't get serious about crime
On this week's conversation Paul talks with the top performing legislator in the Foundation's Freedom Index John Block. Rep. Block is a freshman lawmaker out of Alamogordo and has been active in politics for several years. We discuss his conservative track record and how he approached the session among numerous other things. Check it out!
On this week's Tipping Point conversation Paul and Wally discuss Gov. Lujan Grisham's vetoes of the "tax omnibus" bill in great detail. You can read our analysis here. Not only do the policy moves not make sense, neither the Gov.'s decisions nor the original bill have any political coherence. What do the vetoes mean for New Mexico's economic situation? Martin Heinrich had some thoughts on the vetoes as did numerous left-wing interest groups, but Wally and Paul have their own nuanced takes on the pros of the vetoed tax hikes and the cons of the lost tax cuts.
The capital Outlay bill includes $10 million for a new abortion clinic. This is emblematic of New Mexico's failed capital outlay process and politicians who care more about catering to national interest groups than their own constituents.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with the Foundation's luncheon speaker Todd Myers. Todd was in Albuquerque discussing his new book, "Time to Think Small: How Nimble Environmental Technologies Can Solve the Planet's Biggest Problems" in which he outlined ways in which the free market and individuals can actually do a much better job of environmental stewardship than big government. Check out this informative conversation!
Another Wallethub report, this one says New Mexicans bear relatively heavy tax burdens (despite massive oil/gas revenues).
New Mexico, land of unlimited film subsidies.
The New Mexico United and their push for a new stadium are in the news.
Policy debate: energy issues in the wake of the war in Ukraine.
New PED secretary give details on new social studies standards.
These are the senators with the best scores on the Freedom index.
The Gov. has until April 7 to sign bills. She has not acted on the big tax bill yet.
In this interview Paul talks to Glen Lyons. Glen was a finalist for New Mexico's new, governor-appointed Public Regulation Commission. He also worked for ERCOT in Texas and ExxonMobil. Gessing and Lyons also discuss the PRC process, some of the questions he was asked, and whether it was fair or not.
Finally, Glen has some thoughts for how New Mexico should use its massive budget surplus.
Alamogordo's own Rep. John Block took home the top prize in our Freedom Index this year. Paul and Wally discuss some of the other results and trends. Paul and Wally also discuss the departure of David Abbey from the LFC and the hole that he leaves.
According to a new Wallethub report New Mexico taxpayers get a terrible return on investment.
Yes, the Biden Administration really was trying to ban gas stoves. Sen. Martin Heinrich claims to oppose "dark money," but he is also a leading supporter of the "dark money" group "Rewiring America."
A hidden video captures school board trainer Andrew Sanchez pushing against "parental rights" and instead arguing that "parental rights end when you decide to send your kid to public school."
Paul and Wally have talked about this anti-donation clause issue. Now, it is clear that the turf was ONLY to be used by the Gladiators football team. The indoor soccer team playing in the same arena is NOT allowed to use the turf.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Romie Sandoval and Riccardo Hill. These two young men were legislative staffers for Republican legislators during the session. We discuss how things work "behind the scenes" and how average people can both get involved and influence policymakers. Sandoval and Hill are political consultants in their full-time jobs, so we discuss various issues around getting candidates elected in New Mexico.
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss the 2023 session and its conclusion. Most notably, they address the massive tax "omnibus" package that wound up passing. It did not include needed reforms, but there were numerous components to the bill.
They also consider the situation with regard to medical providers. Previously it had appeared that no action would be taken on medical malpractice, but that changed quickly in the final days of the session.
Finally, Wally and Paul offer a broader perspective on the session. With "progressives" firmly in control, did they have an organizing principle or a strategy? How about the minority Republicans? How should they message what happened and didn't happen?
The Freedom Index scores are almost finalized. You can find them here.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Kathleen Sgamma, President of the Western Energy Alliance. Kathleen spends her time advocating for energy issues in the "Intermountain" West which includes New Mexico.
Kathleen and Paul discuss an underreported scandal involving Interior Secretary and New Mexico politician Deb Haaland. They also discuss Haaland's role in making decisions about Chaco Canyon itself as well as the Willow project in Alaska which had not been finalized as of our conversation.
Check out this important conversation about energy and New Mexico's important role in American energy production!
The House-passed tax bill is MUCH better. It is a complicated piece of legislation and it remains a missed opportunity. That said it will probably be amended in the Senate and possibly by MLG.
A paid leave proposal (SB 11) was discussed in Santa Fe on Friday, the bill has now failed in a welcome bit of news for New Mexico businesses and many workers.
The New Mexico's Legislature doesn't seem to be inclined to address the doctor shortage.
What's the latest on the plastic bag ban? Will it pass?
The City of Albuquerque's inspector general says the City recently violated the anti-donation clause.
The Freedom Index scores continue to pile up.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Andrew Wilford. He is Director of the Interstate Commerce Initiative for the National Taxpayers Union Foundation, a taxpayer research organization based in Washington, DC.
Specifically, Paul talks to Andrew about the organization's brand new research on state policies and remote work (the ROAM Index). There is no doubt that COVID 19 enabled and encouraged "remote" work. Which states have the best rules and tax policies for those who wish to work remotely? Paul and Andrew discuss New Mexico's performance (mediocre), which states perform best, and the states that perform worst in terms of their policies toward remote work.
New Mexico COULD be a bastion for remote work if its policymakers tried. Check out this conversation
The Legislature failed to enact needed GRT reforms and instead has plenty of tax hikes. A piece in the ABQ Journal on Friday telegraphed where things were heading. Not only will doctors be among those paying higher taxes, another attempt to reform NM's medical malpractice law failed.
MLG will end the COVID health emergency at the end of March. As of March 11 we will have been in an emergency for 3 years.
A new study finds gas stoves are safe, but the Consumer Product Safety Administration has announced they plan to study the issue.
A chart in motion highlights the growth of government in New Mexico and other states since 1962. Since 2020 (the last year of the chart) New Mexico government has grown even faster.
The votes are really piling up at our Freedom Index with more to come.
On this week's show Paul talks to Phillip K. Howard about his new book Not Accountable:Rethinking the Constitutionality of Public Employee Unions.Howard is a New York Times bestselling author, lawyer, and advocate to simplify government and restore individual responsibility.
In Howard's latest book he exposes the fraught history of government unions which FDR (and many early labor leaders) opposed and argues forcefully that government unions are unconstitutional. Check out this timely and important conversation here!
The US Department of Energy now says COVID most likely came from a lab leak at the Wujan Lab in China. This had been discussed and RGF had argued this to be the case, but it is good to see another of our perspectives on COVID proved out.
Paul argues that NM should reduce corporate income taxes, not shift them:
Paid Leave bill (SB 11) will soon be voted on by the full Senate. It could undermine any progress this Legislature makes on tax and economic policy reform.
We've talked about how Mississippi improved education. The ABQ Journal did a long-overdue article about it. What did the Journal "get" vs. miss and why?
Project Veritas exposes Albuquerque Public Schools' secretive and troubling approach to transgender issues.
HB 400 in the New Mexico Legislature would add more than 100,000 New Mexicans to the Medicaid rolls.
The Biden admin quietly admits White House's 9,000 unused oil permits talking point is wrong.
On this week's conversation Paul sits down with Zack Fort of the New Mexico Shooting Sports Association to discuss the myriad anti-gun bills currently moving in the New Mexico Legislature. While the Rio Grande Foundation is not expert in gun issues, we are concerned about preserving New Mexicans' constitutional rights. Don't miss this timely conversation.
New Mexico's Legislature is considering a bill that would ban plastic bags statewide.
Paul was in the Roundhouse yesterday to discuss a bill that would quintuple alcohol taxes.
A few of the notable emergency powers bills died last week in the House Judiciary Committee: HJR3 and HB80.
HB 88 which would have addressed New Mexico's doctor shortage/medical malpractice dies in committee.
Paul believes Interior Sec. Deb Haaland has a conflict of interest involving her daughter's political activities.
On this week's conversation Paul talks to Daniel Suhr an attorney with the Liberty Justice Center, a conservative public interest law firm. The firm is best known for representing Mark Janus in the landmark Janus v. AFSCME Supreme Court case.
Currently the Liberty Justice Center is representing the Rio Grande Foundation on two important cases. One deals with Albuquerque City Council "donating" your tax dollars to Planned Parenthood. The other lawsuit is against NM's Secretary of State and rules that limit free speech.
Friday the 17th will mark one year since Gov. Lujan Grisham ended New Mexico's mask mandate. A new, perhaps the most comprehensive analysis of the issue says mask mandates don't work.
A bill to reform New Mexico's GRT has been introduced and Gov. MLG supports it. Find out more about HB 367 here.
Legislation targeting nuclear storage facility passed the NM Senate.
HB 28 which would have indexed New Mexico's minimum wage to inflation has failed.
RGF has data highlighting the fact that NM's Legislature has become increasingly partisan in recent years.
WalMart closing San Mateo store. Local activists are concerned about "food desert". Paul and Wally discuss what is causing this and the fundamental issues at play.
A new report ranks New Mexico a mediocre 31st for remote work.
Alamogordo Public Schools' superintendent was recently put on leave for some remarks. Wally and Paul have the story here.
n this week's conversation Paul sat down with Hal Stratton. Hal is a former New Mexico legislator and the only Republican Attorney General to serve New Mexico in modern history. He also co-founded the Rio Grande Foundation back in 2000. Paul and Hal discuss the founding of the Foundation and his reasons for helping to create it. Finally, they discuss Hal's tenure as Chair of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The CPSC recently made headlines when one of President Biden's commissioners publicly discussed banning gas stoves.
Which counties are New Mexico's economic drivers? A new study from the Arrowhead Center at NMSU has the details.
School Choice managed to pass out of a committee last week: SB 113 by Sen. Ortiz y Pino would create a system of tax credits for school choice and it moved out of its first committee. Here are where things stand now that the session has been going on for 3 weeks as of Tuesday.
The ABQ Journal took a look at New Mexico's medical provider shortage.
New Mexico now produces more oil than the nation of Mexico.
Legislative consultants are again pushing the narrative that New Mexico faces a "budgetary abyss" if something bad happens to the oil/gas industry. They may be correct, but NM faces plenty of problems already and has tended to waste the oil and gas money available to it already. Here is an op-ed written by the consultants.
On this week's show Paul talks to Preston Cooper about his new research on the Return on Investment (ROI) of a college education and the new report he has written which ranks US states by the ROI of their higher education systems. Cooper is a researcher working on higher education issues for the The Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity (FREOP). Furthermore Cooper looks at which programs have the highest ROI in each state and offers tangible ideas for policymakers to make their higher education systems a better deal for students and taxpayers alike.
Several members of the Lujan Grisham Administration have departed recently in the midst of the legislative session. Paul and Wally discuss some of the more notable departurers.
RGF recently released a study about the medical provider shortage.
Last week was School Choice week. Bills have been introduced on both the Democrat and Republican sides of the aisle to create choice. These bills will be heard in the Senate Education Committee on Wednesday, February 1.
Despite a massive surplus some powerful Democrats are pushing to raise taxes. One bill, HB 119 would add a 6.5% and 6.9% top rate on top of the 5.9% rate and the 6.5% rate would kick in at $200,000 annual income for married couples.
Under Bill Richardson NM's top income tax rate was dropped to 4.9%.
Some bills reining in the Gov.'s emergency powers have passed out of their first committees and are on their way to House Judiciary Committee.
The Foundation's Freedom Index bill tracking site is a tool people can use to find out how the bills they support/oppose are faring and how their legislators are voting on them.
A new Wallethub report says New Mexico has one of the smallest wealth gaps by race/ethnicity. This undermines a lot of left-wing talking points, but notably New Mexico is poor AND even the wealthiest in New Mexico don't register relative to other states.
On this week's interview Paul talks to his old friend Drew Johnson. Drew and Paul both worked in Washington, DC for the National Taxpayers Union (and Foundation). Drew and Paul discuss government waste and their past and current efforts to reduce it. Also, Drew recently ran for office in Nevada which allows for mail-in ballots and vote harvesting among many other questionable practices. You don't want to miss this informative conversation.
RGF/Paul’s case against the City of Albuquerque for its "donation" to Planned Parenthood has officially been filed.
Also, RGF successfully appealed its free speech case at the United States District Court.
A few notable bills coming up in Committee for which RGF will deliver testimony.
08:30AM
NM HB96
Combined Cycle Natural Gas As Renewable
01:30PM
NM HB25
Minimum Wage Increase & Indexing
Also, the Democrats added $2 million to the must-pass “feed bill” which funds the session. The money will pay for a study of “professionalized” legislature, but this kind of policymaking should be done in the traditional legislative process, not the feed bill.
Build Your Dreams 2.0: Albuquerque experiences another EV fail as legislation is being introduced to mandate 75% of the State's fleet is electric.
RGF examines the reality of NM’s medical provider shortage in a new report that is part 1 of a 2 part series.
Meanwhile, the amount of money being requested in the latest budget for Medicaid is a positively mind blowing: $10.5 billion. A portion of those dollars are being proposed to "backfill" for an expiring federal COVID program that expanded Medicaid for 100,000 people in New Mexico. Paul had an opinion piece in several New Mexico newspapers highlighting the costly failure of Medicaid expansion in New Mexico.
Finally, RGF's Freedom Index bill tracking system is up and running so you can track the best and worst bills (and votes) of 2023.
On this week's interview Paul talks to his old friend Paul Teller. The two Paul's go back 20 years when Teller was staff director at the Republican Study Caucus, a conservative coalition of House Republicans in Congress. They discuss how the conservative movement has evolved since then and some of the issues and battles that led us to the current moment.
Paul Teller is now Executive Director of Advancing American Freedom, a non-profit led by former VP Mike Pence. They discuss what the organization is doing to advance its goals which include "energy independence." Teller is in New Mexico for a variety of meetings while Paul is hopeful for a visit/event with VP Pence.
NM's legislative session begins at noon. We can talk broadly about what to look for in the upcoming session on a whole host of issues. MLG's "more of the same" budget is built on extraordinary growth in oil production. Sadly it doesn't seriously address tax reform.
Paul and Wally briefly discuss the latest in the gas stove "wars."
New Mexico population loss is a long-term problem.
Left wing legislator introduces legislation to create high speed rail from Denver to Mexico (again). Paul has brand new Rail Runner data highlighting the taxpayer-financed train's costly failure.
Albuquerque's "free" bus fare program hasn't moved the needle on bus ridership in the City either.
Finally, Paul notes that the City's community centers were closed not just for MLK Day, but also the Saturday and Sunday before. This highlights the City's lack of concern for youth who have no inexpensive entertainment options when school is out and these centers are closed.
On this week's interview show Paul talks to Rep. Ryan Lane (R-Aztec) the incoming House Minority Leader in the New Mexico Legislature. Paul and Ryan talk about what made Ryan get into politics and what he and the minority Republicans hope to accomplish during the impending 2023 legislative session. Specifically, they discuss New Mexico's massive surplus as well as New Mexico's emergency statutes which have been used by Gov. Lujan Grisham. for nearly three years.
Paul was called "prescient" by one national publication for his analysis regarding natural gas in appliances.
Paul and Wally really enjoyed this recent cartoon in the Albuquerque Journal.
Proposals will be considered in the upcoming session. Should the New Mexico Legislature be “professionalized?”
A powerful Democrat legislator wants to make New Mexico’s minimum wage $16 an hour AND index it to inflation (HB 25).
MLG backs down (at least for now) on getting government employees back to the office.
A new report highlights New Mexico’s poor ROI from higher education.
Broadband or government boondoggle?
On this week's show Paul talks to Robert Hockaday about his company's efforts to turn animal waste created in New Mexico's agriculture industry into a variety of economically-valuable products (everything from fertilizer to CO2).
The Tucumcari Bio-Energy Company would seem to be a win-win for New Mexico's economy and the environment. What are the obstacles to success? Check out this fascinating conversation.
MLG and the other winners from November were sworn in over the New Year's weekend. We can discuss what she had to say and what 2023 has in store. She has also named a new health secretary from Oregon.
NM population drops in latest Census data.
Ten years on was NM's Medicaid reform a failure?
Rep. Jason Harper has released a one-pager on some reforms to NM's gross receipts tax. Details are fuzzy, but Wally and Paul are optimistic.
In a new National Review column I highlight the ways in which Arizona and Mississippi have outperformed New Mexico without higher spending.
Sen. Heinrich had yet another opinion piece published on his pet issue of "electrification."
Paul and Wally address the key public policy issues of 2022 and their impact of New Mexico plus a look at some key questions for 2023.
Paul was in Jackson, Wyoming last week w/ Grover Norquist and a number of other center/right folks. He briefly shares news from conservative activists from across the country. As relates to our ongoing discussions of the medical provider shortage a new LFC report finds it is hard for Medicaid patients to get access to medical care.
MLG is talking about another round of tax rebates. There are pluses and minuses to this approach. Analysts say New Mexico is too reliant on oil and gas (duh!), but their advice is horrendous. A news article had some good quotes from people concerned about capping interest rates on loans to low-income borrowers. The bill passed, but it's still important to understand why this was a harmful bill. Wally's NMSU Aggies play Paul's BGSU Falcons in a football matchup the Monday after Christmas. Who will win?
On this week's conversation Paul talks to Mackenzie Bishop, the co-founder and co-owner of Abrazo Homes a home builder based in the Albuquerque area.
In this wide-ranging conversation Paul and Mackenzie discuss the myriad forces acting on the housing market from the Federal Reserve to supply chain issues and local crime and permitting issues. With "rent control" and other policies being considered in the upcoming legislative session this is an especially timely conversation.
The Legislature will have a positively mind-blowing $3.6 billion budget surplus. What is that by comparison?
The PED has also made its budgetary request which, while not a huge increase, highlights the ineffectiveness of boosting spending with no reforms. After producing terrible results in the latest NAEP test the PED and Legislature are considering "dumbing down" education standards:
Among the bills to be considered in the Legislature this year is "net zero." Energy expert Alex Epstein has thoughts.
Pulling back on ABQ's "free" buses won't be easy.
As Fauci retires and Twitter owner Elon Musk stokes debate over Fauci's record it is worth noting what he got wrong during his "leadership" of US health policy in the COVID pandemic.
On this week’s interview Paul talks to Sandra Whisler, MD and Howard Gogel, MD about New Mexico’s medical provider shortage. This is the second conversation Paul has had with medical professionals regarding the serious issues New Mexico is having with attracting and retaining medical professionals.
New Mexico's GOP re-ups with Steve Pearce as Chair. Also, Paul offers a few more thoughts on voter turnout during the last election.
The PRC picks 9 candidates for Gov. MLG to pick from. RGF adjunct Kenneth Costello was NOT among the finalists. Paul and Wally discuss.
Wal Mart joins RGF in their innovative use of "StoryFile" technology.
New Mexico is following the "Voices" playbook, but to what end?
A new study tallies up the cost of COVID learning loss to $900 billion in lost income.
It's back to the office on January 1 for state employees.
NM’s workforce participation rate has not only NOT recovered from before COVID, it has actually dropped since June.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Elizabeth Stelle, Director of Policy Analysis at Pennsylvania's Commonwealth Foundation. The organization recently published a comprehensive study and ranking of state policies relating to public employment laws.
The report, "The Battle for Worker Freedom in the States" analyzes state laws that either constrict or increase freedom for public sector workers. Not surprisingly New Mexico ranks poorly in this report at "D-."
The City of Albuquerque rejected rent control legislation, but a bill will be introduced in the upcoming session.
My opinion piece which ran in papers around the state over the last several days asks some pertinent questions.
A scandal recently exposed by KRQE's Larry Barker involving New Mexico's capital outlay process illustrates why passing Amendment 2 was a bad idea and highlights other issues in state/local governance.
Once upon a time Arizona trailed New Mexico in education outcomes (4th grade reading NAEP scores). According to Statista, New Mexico now spends 19th-most among US states on K-12 education (More than $15,000 per-student).
NM gets low marks for economic freedom (again).
Paul talked to KOAT Channel 7 about the unused State office buildings costing taxpayers $18 million annually.
City of Albuquerque’s spending of $1 million on field transformation for United Soccer team.
Shooting at UNM postpones basketball game.
Thanksgiving prices are way up.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Fred Nathan the Founder and CEO of Think New Mexico which describes itself as a "results-oriented think tank whose mission is to serve all New Mexicans." The organization recently published a detailed and ambitious plan to reform New Mexico schools. While Rio Grande Foundation and Think New Mexico don't always agree on policy solutions for New Mexico, Paul and Fred both want very much to improve New Mexico's dismal education system. This conversation really digs into the details of Think New Mexico's education plan and its pluses and minuses from RGF's perspective.
Like everyone else RGF is interested in what happened in the recent election. Paul has some analysis here.
Paul and Wally aren't the only ones waiting for something to happen at Spaceport America. A Chicago man recently asked for and received a refund from Virgin Galactic.
Think New Mexico proposes education reform, we analyze their plan.
RGF will be in federal court on Wednesday against NM Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver.
Environmental consults presented to the Legislature recently. They claim to have put a price of $5.3 billion on New Mexico environmental disasters due to climate change, but make no specific arguments that climate change caused the disasters.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Veronica Mayer Bryant of the American Council of Trustees and Alumni. Veronica is Acting Director for Curricular Improvement at the organization which focuses on promoting Academic Excellence, Academic Freedom, and Accountability at America’s colleges and universities.
Paul and Veronica talk about the state of higher education generally and higher ed in New Mexico more specifically including the results of ACTA's report, "What will they learn" which ranks curricula at universities across the country and right here in New Mexico.
Paul talks with KIVA Radio's Eddy Aragon on the future of the GOP party in light of the 2022 mid-term elections.
Paul and Wally discuss the election results in New Mexico and nationally. What is the path forward for New Mexico and especially the conservative movement more broadly.
We have a lot to discuss regarding the "Nation's Report Card" NAEP test and Mississippi's strong performance relative to New Mexico. And, while voters will likely approve Amendment 1, we SHOULD have seen results from that spending by now.
The City's recycling program attempts to recycle plastics, but Greenpeace says only 5% of plastics are recycled. Perhaps it is time for a different plan?
Across the country homeless issues are critical. At a recent national conference Paul met Judge Glock, Senior Director of Policy Research at the Austin, TX - based Cicero Institute, a think tank that among other issues focuses on solutions to homelessness. Paul and Judge discuss the challenge we face and real-world solutions for the problem. You don't want to miss this conversation!
With a week to go before the 2022 election the ABQ Journal released their poll which has MLG up 8. There is another poll from Emerson that finds a much narrower race. The latest Emerson poll puts Herrell in the lead. The Journal has a fairly tight race between Michelle Garcia Holmes and Melanie Stansbury. Interestingly the Journal has Herrell losing. Paul and Wally discuss the challenges of polling and how this election is going to impact the credibility of certain pollsters.
Paul and Wally make their own predictions regarding some top New Mexico and national races.
Paul recently undertook an in depth analysis of the recent NAEP scores to figure out if lockdowns impacted learning. There is certainly some correlation there: https://errorsofenchantment.com/covid-and-the-tragic-naep-scores-4th-grade-math-part-1-of-2/
https://errorsofenchantment.com/covid-and-the-tragic-naep-scores-4th-grade-reading-part-2-of-2/
RGF has released a new tool to allow the public to engage with candidates.
There is an environmental success story that has received little attention and environmentalists don't seem to care about.
According to a new audit Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller has massively padded the City of Albuquerque's payroll, specifically political or "unclassified" positions.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Timothy Vermeer Senior Policy Analyst with the Center for State Tax Policy
of the Tax Foundation, one of the oldest and most credible tax policy think tanks in Washington. Vermeer has spent time in New Mexico talking to the Legislature sharing good tax policies and encouraging legislators to take tax policy seriously as a means of developing New Mexico's economy. His organization has also just published their 2023 State Business Tax Climate Index.
We discuss what New Mexico should do to reform taxes in terms of gross receipts, income, and corporate taxation to name a few given the State's strong revenue picture.
A new poll from Trafalgar Group puts Mark Ronchetti in the lead against Michelle-Lujan Grisham.
NM "lays an egg" in the latest NAEP education test scores. NM is dead last across all categories (4th grade reading/math & 8th grade reading/math).
MLG and a left wing group are attacking Ronchetti's tax plans. But their critiques don't hold water.
New Mexico: the energy state whose federal representatives (minus Herrell) hate energy. Gabe Vasquez would not improve that if he defeated Herrell.
New Mexico's economy shrank during the first two quarters of 2022. It shrank by more than any of its neighbors in BOTH quarters.
New Mexico among states losing young, wealthy residents.
Paul always votes against bonds. He explains why and why a former UNM President seems to agree with him about Statewide Bond 3.
On this week's conversation Paul interviews Ben Lieberman of Competitive Enterprise Institute. Ben and Paul discuss federal and state efforts to micromanage how your homes are heated with new regulations from the Biden Administration pushing to make natural gas less preferable relative to electric heat pumps and other electrical options.
Paul and Ben also discuss the latest on CAFE standards on automobiles and what's next for all manner of government environmental regulations.
We start off talking about the last debate for Gov. and what happened. Early voting in person starts Saturday.
Fact checking the fact checkers on education in NM governor's race.
Candidates for Gov. agree, don't reimpose grocery tax.
A new report highlights New Mexico's poor, union-friendly laws on public employment
City of Albuquerque looks to "improve" upon "free" bus system.
Incumbent land commissioner threatens to hold industry hostage to get tax increase.
ABQ Council wisely rejects support for rent control memorial.
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On this week's interview Paul talks to Brian Domitrovic a scholar with the Laffer Institute about his new book, "Taxes Have Consequences: the definitive history of the income tax on the economy."
Paul and Brian talk about Arthur Laffer and the basics of the Laffer Curve. They move on to a history of the income tax in the United States and how various presidents (and congresses) either improved or destroyed the American economy through their various income taxation policies. We also discuss how states can and should improve their own economic situations by completely eliminating income taxation.
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally note that early voting at county clerks offices kicks off today. Early in-person voting begins on October 22nd. In order to inform people about some of the items on the ballot they do a "deep dive" into important issues on the ballot that average New Mexicans may not know or understand the implications of. If you or your friends and family members have questions about everything from judges to bond measures to constitutional amendments, this is YOUR episode!
Paul specifically wants voters to beware of Amendment 2.
Some interesting migration trends are uncovered in the Allied Van Lines report (such as where Californians are moving).
New Mexico Democrats are talking seriously about raising taxes in January. Paul and Wally discuss.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Lindsey Burke, Phd of the Heritage Foundation. Lindsey has been a long-time researcher and advocate for education choice and she and her team recently published the Heritage Foundation's "Education Freedom Report Card." Paul and Lindsey discuss New Mexico's performance on the Index and what could be done to improve it. Also, they discuss the policies that make some states leaders in educational freedom and what "blue" states like New Mexico are or can do to improve educational freedom.
KOB TV Debate wrap up and discussion.
Further breakdown of the ABQ Journal responses of both candidates.
MLG rescinds order relating to public health used in Ronchetti ad.
RGF makes news due to Governor candidate Mark Ronchetti's visit to UPS facility. RGF weighs in.
A local Starbucks votes to unionize.
There is zero evidence the recent hurricane to hit Florida is the result of global warming; In fact, the end of August saw the development of NO named storms. There were no tropical storms or hurricanes in the month of August in 1961 (pre-satellite era) and 1997.
Credit where credit is due to the New Energy Economy on PNM/Avangrid merger.
As NM shuts down coal plants to defeat climate change, China builds MUCH more.
California Air Resources Board to prohibit natural gas heaters/furnaces (will MLG follow suit if elected?).
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Casey and Micayle Petersen. Together they are the founders of Freedom Families United. At the outset Paul and Casey discuss his term at Sandia National Labs during which he blew the whistle on Critical Race Theory indoctrination. He ultimately left the Lab due to its COVID vaccine mandate.
Now, the couple has created Freedom Families United which works to unite pro-freedom families and educate them on the forces undermining individual liberty in New Mexico and around the nation.
There will be two debates for Gov. While all debates are important, this one is especially so as MLG has so few details about her future plans. The first debate will take place Sept. 30 and will be hosted by KOB-TV. The second hourlong debate is being hosted by KOAT-TV, along with the Journal and KKOB Radio, and is set for Oct. 12.
Opinion piece runs statewide: MLG is trying to win reelection on abortion. What about other important issues?
https://errorsofenchantment.com/lujan-grisham-touts-abortion-what-about-economy-education/
So far, the most forthcoming remarks MLG has made on her future policy plans have been to the Albuquerque Journal. We compare and contrast the candidates stated views on the issues.
MLG fibs again, this time on COVID numbers. Paul really wishes the media would challenge her on some of these basic questions, but it will fall to Ronchetti to do so in the upcoming debates.
PNM tells policymakers and media (again) that New Mexicans are likely to experience blackouts and brownouts next summer. Again, the media fail to connect this to the Gov.'s Energy Transition Act. California is of course experiencing many of the same issue and will continue to do so until policies change.
On this week's interview Paul talks to New Mexico Rep. Larry Scott, a Republican from Hobbs. Larry and Paul discuss hydrogen and the negatives of the hydrogen hub concept. While Larry does not describe himself as an "opponent" of the concept, he expresses concern about the massive subsidies necessary for hydrogen to be a significant energy source. He shares a number of other concerns about hydrogen and the "hydrogen hub" concept. This is part 2 of a two part series. George Sharpe provided the "pro" side.
On this week's conversation Paul has had a busy week of travel to Dallas and Atlanta. He fills the listeners in on what he's doing out of State.
A new poll gives MLG a healthy lead, but the more interesting thing is how some of the issues and demographics break down (scroll to the bottom of the story). For example, MLG’s social media gives the impression that abortion is the ONLY issue on the ballot this fall, yet just 29% of voters claim it is their top motivation to vote. Also, MLG takes credit for her COVID policies, but it is simply not true to claim (as she does) that New Mexico outperformed Texas on COVID.
Gas prices are down, no thanks to Biden who has been especially stingy in leasing federal lands.
A recent article highlights the need for a dramatic expansion of mining needed to fulfill EV goals.
New Mexico among the states with the fastest growing 65+ population.
A fascinating article highlights safety issues with Virgin Galactic spacecraft and especially the manufacturer Scaled Composites.
Violent protesters at UNM shut down conservative speaker Tomi Lahren.
Kenneth Starr passed away last week. He spoke at a January 2019 RGF luncheon. He is most well known for investigating then-President Clinton.
On the first of a two-part "pro/con" interview series on the "hydrogen hub" concept Paul talks to George Sharpe, Investment Manager for Merrion Oil and Gas in Farmington. George is a longtime fixture of the Four Corners oil and gas industry and he supports the idea of a hydrogen hub while recognizing the reliance on subsidies and numerous unknowns regarding the technology. This is an important economic issue with major implications for New Mexico!
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally take a look at the forward looking agendas of gubernatorial candidates Mark Ronchetti and Michelle Lujan Grisham for New Mexico's education system, MLG doesn't have any (she literally doesn't lay out ANY priorities):
Economy. You can compare Ronchetti's education plan with MLG's
Furthermore, MLG claims she is "a product of New Mexico's public school system" when she actually graduated from St. Michael's in Santa Fe.
Paul and Wally discuss the Heritage Foundation's new report on education choice.
New Mexico outpaces the nation on welfare recipients (and it's not even close).
It's almost as if New Mexico government is ineffective or something.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Albuquerque area ophthalmologist Kenneth Adams about New Mexico's doctor shortage. We discuss what attracted him to New Mexico from Texas in the first place. What keeps him here? What are some things that make New Mexico an unattractive state to practice medicine in? What could make things better? Don't miss this timely conversation!
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss President Biden's dark and disturbing speech against Trump and his supporters
Gov. MLG spends $10 million capital outlay dollars for a new abortion clinic in Southern NM: Also, while Paul reiterates that RGF takes no position on abortion in New Mexico, he frames this move within the context of a new ABQ Journal poll on abortion.
Less than a week after banning gas powered cars California tells Californians NOT to charge their cars due to electricity shortages. As Wally and Paul have recently discussed, 2% of all vehicles on the road in CA are electric. Notably, New Mexico is following these policies, but California recently decided to keep the Diablo Canyon nuclear plant open. To date New Mexico appears to have no inclination to keep power flowing from the Palo Verde nuclear plant.
Dismal education news this week came from two sources.
Lawmakers discuss NM Spaceport and the pipe dream of financial “self-sufficiency” at the facility while Las Cruces area Cervantes contrasts Spaceport w/ Rail Runner and asks the state of New Mexico to pick up the tab.
A new ABQ Journal poll highlights support for a pre-K amendment on the ballot this November, but this is hardly a surprise given the choices.
RGF is participating in an “open house” for the new Moms for Liberty chapter in Bernalillo County.
In this conversation Paul talks to Sarah Jane Allen. Sarah Jane is involved in the formation of a new Moms for Liberty chapter in Bernalillo County. We discuss what the organization is trying to do and some of the important policies they want to address. Sarah Jane is also involved with New Mexico Alive which brings regular speakers from the State in order for them to share ways they are working to improve life in the Land of Enchantment.
The ABQ Journal came out with polling for numerous races including Gov. These polls (and here) with RGF analysis here point to New Mexicans continuing to embrace the same policies and people they have for years. Can Ronchetti and other candidates close the gap?
A new RGF opinion piece takes on NM's self-inflicted doctor shortage. As bad as this shortage is now, it will get worse once MLG's medical malpractice kicks in.
California bans internal combustion engines.
Biden's student loan boondoggle is awful on so many levels.
NM's state government spends the most of any state in the nation.
The Biden Administration recently issued regulations attacking charter schools. The Rio Grande Foundation submitted comments against this attack, but we and other charter advocates were ignored. Caleb Kruckenberg is an attorney with Pacific Legal Foundation. He is suing the Biden Administration over this issue. Paul and Caleb also discuss the use and abuse of administrative law and how it impacts this and other important public policies.
New Mexico has another very big surplus. What should and shouldn't be done with the surplus money?
An opinion piece by one "progressive" legislator calls out their Democrat critics calling them ignorant or shills for the rich. We discuss.
NM's unemployment rate dropped to 4.5% in July and MLG is taking full credit, but New Mexico's rate remains the highest among US states as it has been for 8 straight months. But, as an RGF opinion piece notes, workforce participation remains an issue and the state must encourage people to work.
PNM hasn't merged with Avangrid (yet), but their marketing materials seem to have. What's the deal? Is this even legal?
APS and their union are at an impasse, what does that mean and what are the issues at hand?
In this week's conversation Paul talks to New Mexico oil and gas leaders Krista McWilliams and Emmons Yates. These two oil and gas industry leaders discuss the current economic and policy forces acting upon their industry. They share both the importance of the industry that provides our way of life and their expectations for the future.
You don't want to miss this conversation!
MLG extends her health orders again. Scrase claims "success" but with what evidence given New Mexico's objectively poor COVID performance.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was here in NM recently. While MLG and her political allies call him "extreme," there are few metrics on which New Mexico outperforms Florida when one considers economy, education, crime, and COVID.
And, as if we haven't talked about various rankings enough, New Mexico policymakers were recently presented with a variety of negative metrics.
Sadly, the Democrat legislators quoted in the article seem motivated to ignore NM's poor rankings.
European energy prices should be a warning to Americans.
No electric car on the road today would qualify or electric vehicle credit in recently-passed federal legislation.
At Monday's meeting the City of Albuquerque Council placed a moratorium on proposed homeless encampments but kept the $250,000 in place to fund Planned Parenthood.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Republican Attorney General candidate Jeremy Gay. Paul and Jeremy discuss the role of Attorney General in New Mexico. What can he do to fight out-of-control crime? What are some limits of the office? What is the role of the AG in the economy? Will Jeremy allow billionaires like Michael Bloomberg pay the salaries of employees in the AG's office as current AG Hector Balderas has done? Gessing and Gay discuss this and numerous other issues.
During this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss the recently-passed and poorly-named "Inflation Reduction Act." What's in the bill and why is it so bad?
Next, the latest "Kids Count" report put out by Annie E. Casey Foundation and Voices for Children is out and New Mexico is back to 50th. What does it mean and why does "Voices" wish to undermine the findings of their own report?
Virgin Galactic announced that it has again moved back its launch date from New Mexico's Spaceport America. News articles indicate even more serious issues with the company's spacecraft.
The City of ABQ has offered "free" bus service in recent months. While there is little evidence of success, "free" bus ridership could prove very expensive.
A few months ago ABQ City Council gave $250,000 to Planned Parenthood. They will be voting on August 15 to potentially redirect that money.
A new report by Axios includes some interesting data on electric vehicles and their lack of market penetration.
The ABQ Journal has additional reporting on workforce participation: https://errorsofenchantment.com/education-poll-shows-support-in-new-mexico-for-school-choice-concern-for-education-system/
Paul talks with Carol Wight of the New Mexico Restaurant Association about the current state of the restaurant industry. They discuss how the industry fared through the challenges of COVID-19 as well as the post pandemic challenges of inflation, difficulty in finding workers, the impact of new regulation and more. They also discuss federal and state programs that restaurants were able to use to help survive in tough times as well as future policy changes that could benefit the industry including expanding the elimination of New Mexico gross receipts tax on food to include restaurants.
Another education study, another dead last result for New Mexico. The latest is from Wallethub. Paul and Wally discuss this report and other findings on New Mexico's poor educational performance. The ABQ Journal is right that poverty and low literacy are linked, but what are we spending all that money for anyway?
Is more time in the classroom the answer? The ABQ Journal editorial board seems to think so, but other studies throw water on that idea. Finally, during COVID students who went to public schools were out of the classroom MUCH more than their peers in Catholic or other private schools.
Government intervention = higher prices.
American renewables won't fuel our economy or stop climate change, especially when China keeps building new coal plants.
A new Pew report finds New Mexico has some of the most underfunded pensions in the country.
President Joe Biden contracts COVID for a second time in just a few weeks.
On this week's Tipping Point conversation Paul talks to GOP Secretary of State candidate Audrey Trujillo.
Paul and Audrey discuss the role of Secretary of State in New Mexico and what the occupant of that position can/should do with and without the Legislature. They discuss the Secretary's role in elections and preventing election fraud, address recent elections in 2020 and the primary election in 2020, and her plans to improve election integrity.
Finally, Audrey and Paul talk about other parts of the Secretary's job and how it can make New Mexico more attractive as a place to do business.
Governor candidate Mark Ronchetti has released his economic plan. Paul and Wally discuss.
RGF was quoted extensively for a national article (along with NM legislators) about how the war on energy could impact New Mexico's budget.
The latest unemployment numbers are out and despite dropping again, New Mexico's rate remains the highest as it has been for the last 7 months.
ABQ Journal catches on to New Mexico's abysmal workforce participation rates, increase in disability blamed.
New data from GOP national highlights trend toward job creation in red states.
COVID is spreading once again. While it is hard to put much faith in case data, deaths in NM have risen significantly in recent weeks.
Deb Haaland may be in some trouble as her net worth is likely NOT zero.
A national investment website Seeking Alpha believes PNM/Avangrid merger will happen.
Finally, ABQ Mayor Tim Keller has announced that the homeless encampment at Coronado Park will be "closed" in August. Paul and Wally discuss.
In the latest Tipping Point interview Paul talks to returning guest Larry Behrens who handles communications for the pro-energy group Power the Future.
Paul and Larry discuss the current energy situation with President Biden having been to Saudi Arabia pleading for more oil, what Biden COULD do to bring prices down, what is going on in Texas with their electrical grid and how New Mexico might not be far behind, and more.
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss the fact that Gov. MLG has again renewed her health emergency (which expired on July 15). The new order expires in mid-August. The ABQ Journal editorial board recently expressed some valid concerns about the Gov.'s continued use of her emergency powers.
Virgin Galactic announced plans to build their spacecraft for (someday) launch in New Mexico…in Mesa, AZ.
Republican candidate for Gov. Mark Ronchetti announces a rebate plan which would provide annual rebates based on oil and gas revenues. Also, the rebate would give additional $$ based on children. A spokesperson for MLG called Ronchetti’s plan “fiscally irresponsible socialist scheme” in the Albuquerque Journal.
Speaking of "socialist schemes," MLG claims the film industry annual spending rose to $855 million in the last year. We again cite data from the Legislative Finance Committee showing the program to be a money-loser.
CNBC ranked New Mexico 46th in “Best States for Business” report. The report is thorough and comes to the correct conclusion about New Mexico, but it is worth looking at methodology due to some odd rankings.
When it comes to ACTUALLY increasing the number of jobs and economic growth, Paul and Wally cite data highlighting the fact that right to work states continued to move to right to work states after the onset of COVID 19.
Finally, Paul talks to Gerges Scott who represents Holtec International. They discuss the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's recent decision relating to the facility slated to be built as a temporary storage facility for spent nuclear fuel in Southeast New Mexico.
On this week's conversation Paul sits down with New Mexico real estate owner Doug Peterson. Doug will be moderating a panel discussion on crime issues on Thursday, July 14. Through his Peterson Properties company Doug owns and manages large amounts of commercial real estate in and around the Albuquerque area. He has been active in calling attention to lax crime enforcement and the serious homeless problem facing his community. Doug and Paul discuss how the problem has evolved over time, whether the data support assumptions that crime has worsened in Albuquerque, and the various politicians and their impact on the situation.
The state-by-state economic data are in for the first quarter. New Mexico's numbers are not pretty.
There was an interim committee hearing recently about tax policy.
Legislators also discussed user fees for electric vehicles as a way of getting them to pay for road use. Last week the governor unveiled two new electric vehicle charging stations in Socorro, which will use $10 million in state funds along with $38 million in federal infrastructure for a network of electric vehicle charging stations to be located every 50 miles along New Mexico’s interstates. Paul was recently on a road trip with his family. He has the latest gas prices and the lack of Electric vehicles on the road.
MLG's campaign fibbed about a supposed beneficiary of "free college." KOAT 7 called her on it.
Mark Ronchetti outraises incumbent Michelle Lujan Grisham $1.2m to $755k in first post-primary financial report.
The latest RailRunner data are out and while ridership is better than when it was shut down entirely, it is still WAY down from the peak.
On the latest Tipping Point interview Paul sits down with past guest Katharine B. Stevens, PhD of the newly-formed Center on Child and Family Policy. Katharine is an expert on early childhood issues including pre-K and other programs aimed at improving the lives and outcomes of young children. New Mexico voters will be asked to vote to tap into the Land Grant Permanent Fund to fund "universal" pre-K, but a recent study from Tennessee's Vanderbilt University which found negative outcomes from the State's pre-K program.
Major flaws with UPK approach:
· PROOF POINTS: In two places, researchers find problems with expansion of free pre-K (Hechinger Reports on recent NYC and Tennessee studies)
· Pre-K Quality Stalls in New York City (Recent study by Bruce Fuller, Berkeley education professor, on NYC universal pre-K)
· Scaling Up Pre-K Statewide: Experimental Evaluation of the Policy (presentation on Tennessee study results by Dale Farran)
· A top researcher says it's time to rethink our entire approach to preschool (NPR article on Tennessee study)
· Interactive map with data on New Mexico’s school achievement
Other approaches to improving outcomes for low-income children that we should be spending money on instead:
· Healthy Steps improves pediatric services provided by Medicaid, aiming to leverage the underutilized potential of the current system. They just received a $39 million national scale-up grant from Blue Meridian Partners (through an exceptionally rigorous evaluation process).
· Centering Healthcare Institute improves prenatal care through group medical visits — same cost as existing Medicaid-funded prenatal care but shown to get much better results.
On this week's podcast conversation Wally and Paul discuss New laws that kick in as of July 1 in New Mexico including a slight gross receipts tax reduction, near-elimination of the Social Security tax, and military pensions tax, but also the new mandatory paid sick leave.
Long a leader in education reform, Arizona has just embraced universal Education Savings Accounts. Speaking of education, a new report finds no learning loss in Sweden where schools remained open. Contrasting starkly with New Mexico where schools remained closed for over a year:
Paul and Wally discuss the latest SCOTUS rulings in West Virginia vs. EPA.
Despite having the nation’s highest unemployment rate, a new national report finds that businesses in New Mexico are high on the list of those having trouble finding workers.
Sen. Heinrich’s (and Biden's) morally dubious effort to repeal solar panel tariffs.
Finally, Paul is on the road for a family trip. He discusses the lack of Tesla's and other electric vehicles on America's open roads.
On this week's podcast interview Paul talks to Chris Talgo, Senior Editor at the free market Heartland Institute. The main topic addressed is "ESG." ESG stands for "Environmental Social and Governance" which are social credit scores assigned to corporations, supposedly for their corporate behavior in relevant areas. Not surprisingly, ESG is yet another tool for opponents of traditional sources of energy and even free speech to attack their opponents.
Talgo and Gessing go into detail about ESG and also discuss how the Biden Administration is using ESG and other tools to kill American energy.
Paul and Wally begin by discussing the political implications of the Roe v. Wade decision for New Mexico and the Gov’s race. Will it prevent a "red wave?"
10 years ago Chief Justice John Roberts handed down a convoluted decision upholding "ObamaCare" in the NFIB v. Sebelius decision.
Rep. Leger Fernandez “finally” updates her website after RGF called her out on it.
RGF’s column on pre-K runs throughout NM.
Will Biden suspend the gas tax? Is this a good idea?
Mayor Keller: Businesses should pay twice for more policing.
NM is one of 15 states still under an emergency order.
On this week's podcast conversation Paul is joined by Alexis Martinez Johnson. Alexis is running for congress in New Mexico's 3rd congressional district. The District, currently occupied by "freshman" Democrat Teresa Leger Fernandez used to be a "safe" Democrat seat, but with redistricting it is now a much more competitive seat.
Paul talks to Alexis about her background, why she decided to run for office, and some of the important issues she is running on in this newly-competitive district.
The first polling on New Mexico's Gov. race is out. No matter who you believe, the race is very close.
Paul was recently in Southeast New Mexico for several events. He also sat down with the Current-Argus to discuss the SE NM economy which is booming. While New Mexico's economy is strong and plenty of jobs are available, the May state unemployment rates are out and for the 6th month in a row New Mexico has the highest rate. New Mexico's unemployment rate is down to 5.1%.
Paul also met with Pastor Mark Green to discuss the homeless situation. Paul and Pastor Green had an interesting conversation that can be watched here.
The rain may have put out most of New Mexico's awful forest fires, but the scars literally and figuratively remain. Even liberals acknowledge that the far-off federal government is a poor manager of the land.
Joining NM Senator Martin Heinrich, Joe Biden is coming after your gas furnace.
In order to conserve natural gas Germany is ramping up coal-fired electricity production.
Paul recently appeared in KOAT TV channel 7 on two issues dealing with the City of Albuquerque. New fees and the Council's no-strings-attached "grant" to Planned Parenthood.
Finally, the Albuquerque Schools' per person budget is $27,000 per student.
On this week's interview Paul talks to private space expert Doug Messier of the private space tracking site "Parabolic Arc."
While the ongoing frustration of the failures at Spaceport America cast doubt on the future of Virgin Galactic, the private space launch "revolution" is moving forward quickly to step in for NASA. Unfortunately, Virgin Galactic remains stuck "on the runway." Paul and Doug discuss Virgin Galactic and some of their other business models as well as the Spaceport America-based "Spinlaunch" which has received millions of dollars in subsidies from the State of New Mexico for their unproven technology.
Ronchetti wins. Paul & Wally discuss that outcome and other races; Paul recently traveled to Florida for an event with anti-tax advocate Grover Norquist. He discusses the national scene;
Common Cause supports New Mexico’s awful judicial election process. Paul and Wally discuss their issues with it.
ABQ City Council embraces “safe spaces.” Progressive former mayoral candidate Pete Dinelli is spot-on regarding local parks:
Inflation hits 8.6%, highest in four decades. The average US gas price hits $5/gallon.
A new study finds high gas prices hit rural, poor the most (duh). Speaking of inflation, Paul recently spoke to KOAT channel 7 about trash, water,and power fees going up in Albuquerque.
Biden visited New Mexico to offer aid to forest fire victims. A lefty news site actually goes behind the headlines and talks to Northern New Mexicans frustrated by Forest Service mismanagement.
In a seeming conflict of interest, NM Environment Department (headed by MLG) gives out awards to friendly legislators.
Does New Mexico have an education secretary? It is hard to say.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Jennifer Fielder and Paul Fielder of the American Lands Council. The topic is federal land management and the incredibly destructive, Forest Service-set fires now burning in New Mexico. Jennifer is the CEO and Paul a retired wildlife biologist and Montana State Legislator.
The American Lands Council works to improve federal lands management with the ultimate goal of replacing a great deal of federal management with state control with incentives and resources aligned toward improving both the economic and environmental management of federally-controlled lands in New Mexico and elsewhere.
APS budget passed. Superintendent Scott Elder claims there are “big cuts.” Paul and Wally unpack the situation.
The NY Times throws in the towel on mask mandates while clinging to the supposed effectiveness of masks themselves.
On the ballot this fall is “universal” pre-K, but the best study from Tennessee shows it harms kids. Unlike most studies of the issue, the report from Tennessee is a randomized trial.
Paul (and Wall Street) takes a closer look at Virgin Galactic’s troubled finances.
Los Angeles County (and City) bans gas appliances including stoves with specific implications for Korean BBQ and Chinese restaurants. Sen. Martin Heinrich is a leading proponent of banning gas appliances.
On this week's episode Paul is very excited to interview KKOB radio host Bob Clark. Bob has had a long and varied career in media throughout New Mexico. They detail that history, some of Bob's more interesting guests and events that he's covered, and discuss the ever-changing media landscape. You don't want to miss this conversation!
APS budget continues to grow while the school board tentatively rejects a near $2 billion budget.
CRT summer reading from PED.
I wrote in National Review about MLG's clean car mandate.
Gas prices rise to the highest level ever with the start of summer driving season.
When does MLG's latest public health order expire? It is getting confusing?
NM removes "breakthrough" cases from regular reports.
Medicaid recipients per capita in NM far outrstrip other states.
On this week's conversation Paul talks to Clif Horace owner of Horace Motors, a car dealer in Farmington. They discuss the Clean Fuel Standard that was recently imposed by Gov. Lujan Grisham's hand picked Environmental Improvement Board.
The Board has imposed rules that will force New Mexico car dealerships to dramatically increase the number of electric vehicles sold in the State. But, California is considering imposing far more aggressive rules that could result in the elimination of internal combustion engines in cars sold in New Mexico.
Listen to this important conversation to find out more about this outrageous situation.
Full early voting is underway at convenience centers. Thoughts on the ABQ Journal polling and where things stand in the Gov.’s race.
New Mexico's unemployment rate remains the nation’s highest in April. Nonetheless, New Mexico's budget continues to boom due to a combination of oil/gas and inflation.
The unintended consequences of abandoning natural gas include starvation. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland was called on the carpet by Sen. Manchin over energy leases during a recent hearing. With energy prices continuing to skyrocket, it is worth reviewing the track record of New Mexico’s anti-energy Democrat politicians. RGF had an opinion piece on the Lujan Grisham Administration's Clean Car rule hits papers across the state including the Las Cruces Sun News.
The New York Times covers a new Harvard study decrying COVID school closures. Said one Harvard researcher: “This will probably be the largest increase in educational inequity in a generation.”
On this week's conversation Paul sits down with author and speaker Dr. Carol Swain. Swain is an academic, author, and writer who has taken on the issue of "critical race theory," what it means, its "intellectual" beginnings, and why it is harmful to Americans of all races and classes. Swain was recently in Albuquerque recently to give a talk and Paul jumped on the chance to sit down with her to discuss these important and timely issues. You don't want to miss their conversation.
As gas prices in the U.S. have reach new all-time highs, with the national average at $4.48 per gallon, the Biden Administration has canceled more oil and gas leases.
New Mexico’s energy transition is already failing, Paul and Wally explain why.
A solar trade dispute means less than half of PNM’s solar is ready for Summer 2023. A state representative explains the solar tariff issue and also explicitly states that the Energy Transition Act was designed to shut down San Juan Generating Station.
New data confirms that after years of declines US CO2 emissions did rise in 2021 with Joe Biden in office. CO2 emissions are down 18.3% from their peak in 2007.
The Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire now largest wildfire in state history
Critics have been saying for years that the feds weren’t doing a good job. A 2006 article from the Albuquerque Journal discusses some of this history.
MLG extended the health order again. It expired May 16, but has been renewed until May 30.
20% spending growth year-over-year was just passed at Albuquerque City Council.
Early voting continues at county clerk's offices across New Mexico.
Daniel Suhr is a Managing Attorney with the Liberty Justice Center, a conservative non-profit legal firm. Paul and Daniel discuss vaccine mandates, the judiciary's performance during COVID, and numerous other issues relating to COVID and the government's use of emergencies. They also discuss the Roe v. Wade leak (and apparent decision) and their implications for the Court.
New Mexico's unelected Environmental Improvement Board has adopted a new "clean car rule" at the urging of Gov. Lujan Grisham. California’s (and New Mexico’s) standards will require roughly 7% of new cars sold to be zero emission in 2025. In the 3rd quarter of 2021 zero emission vehicles amounted to just 2.29% of new vehicle sales in New Mexico. So, those sales will need to just more than triple from Q3 of 2021 to 2025. The rule could get much more restrictive soon as California Gov. Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order ordering the end the sale of gas-powered cars in California by 2035. California’s own unelected board is expected to hold a vote on final adoption of that in August.
If California enacts this rule, 35% of new cars, SUVs and small pickups sold in California (and thus New Mexico) must be zero-emission starting with 2026 models, then increasing yearly, reaching 51% of all new car sales in 2028, 68% in 2030 and 100% in 2035. Of those, 20% can be plug-in hybrids.
Another delay for Virgin Galactic as their stock market continues to drop.
New Mexico's loan ban was based on false information. A new report from Illinois which adopted a similar law show the number of lenders and loans available to low-income customers has dropped dramatically.
Questions remain for New Mexico’s future electricity reliability. PNM had proposed to build a 280-megawatt “peaking” natural gas plant – which can rapidly ramp up and down as needed – alongside new renewable generation but that has not been built due to PRC opposition. The Avangrid/PNM merger remains alive with an appeal to the New Mexico Supreme Court, but the real strategy seems to be to wait for MLG to put pro-merger people on PRC before she leaves office.
ABQ City councilor proposes “living lots” for local homeless, Paul and Wally have some thoughts.
New Mexico’s new sick leave mandate takes effect on July 1, but we STILL don’t have a final rule.
According to a new Tax Foundation report New Mexico’s sales tax is very broad, 2nd most broad among US states (to Hawaii).
Early voting at county clerk offices begins (today) May 10. Paul has recently interviewed the four main GOP candidates for Gov. and both candidates for CD 1 here and here (all of which are contested).
Greg Zanetti, GOP candidate for Governor: Zanetti was a Brigadier General in the U.S. Army and investment advisor. Paul and Greg discuss his background and the race to challenge Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham in November.
Mark Ronchetti, GOP candidate for Governor: Ronchetti is a former weatherman. Paul and Mark discuss his background and the race to challenge Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham in November.
Rebecca Dow, GOP candidate for Governor: Dow is the only sitting legislator in the race for Gov. Paul and Rebecca discuss her legislative record and the race to challenge Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham in November.
Jay Block, GOP candidate for Governor: Block is a Sandoval County Commissioner. Paul and Jay discuss his efforts as a county commissioner and the race to challenge Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham in November.
Paul visits with Garrett Ballengee, Executive Director of the Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy. They discuss West Virginia's culture and politics, the current economic and social forces impacting the state and an outlook for the future.
This episode is a re-release of Paul Gessing’s appearance on the Forgotten America Podcast with host Garrett Ballengee, executive director of the Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy.
Forgotten America is a podcast about the many places that get flown over, driven past, or completely forgotten and the people who call these places home, and the unique challenges faced by rural America and solutions to those challenges.
Garrett and Paul discuss some of the ways that West Virginia and New Mexico are different and similar from a public policy perspective.
On this week's conversation Paul and Wally discuss the Legislative Finance Committee's new report on Albuquerque Public Schools. The report has important information for state and school districts across New Mexico.
Student loan forgiveness as Joe Biden has discussed doing would be highly regressive (AND bad policy).
Albuquerque is considering sanctioned homeless camps. Wally and Paul explain why this and other supposed "solutions" are problematic.
Natural gas prices are increasing. Unfortunately natural gas production in the US is declining.
New poll places MLG among least popular Governors in the US, but still slightly above "water."
Paul recently interviewed Congresswoman Yvette Herrell and also sat down with the top GOP candidates for Gov. this week on Tipping Point NM.
On this special podcast edition Paul sits down with New Mexico Congressman Yvette Herrell. She and Paul discuss redistricting and the changes made to her 2nd Congressional district. Rep. Herrell also discusses current economic, energy, and border security issues facing New Mexico that she is working on in Congress.
You don't want to miss this special conversation!
Brian Riedl is a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, focusing on budget, tax, and economic policy. Paul and Brian have known each other and worked together since their days in Washington, DC. On this episode Brian and Paul discuss the sorry state of the federal budget and what the Biden budget proposal would do to worsen the situation. They contemplate inflation and its many causes including all of the recent Pandemic spending bills that passed (and some that have not). Finally, they address the impact rising interest rates could have on the dire federal budget situation.
In the second of what will be a handful of “special” episodes of Tipping Point NM, Paul sits down with congressional candidate Michelle Garcia Holmes. Michelle is a Republican former Albuquerque Police Department officer running in New Mexico’s revised 1st District with a primary battle to be decided by voters on June 7. Based on recently redrawn maps, this district could be highly competitive for Republicans looking to unseat Democrat Rep. Melanie Stansbury.
The Foundation has reached out to Stansbury with an invitation to sit down as well.
RGF is now hiring. Find out more.
The media failed to include some important details on a recent CNM story. RGF Paul and Wally correct the record on CNM "cutting" programs.
Speaking of the media getting things wrong, a Politico story gets numerous facts wrong in its attempt to praise New Mexico Democrats on energy.
Friday was Earth Day. Paul and Wally celebrate the very real progress we’ve made on the environment:
Here's how NM’s K-12 spending compares to our neighbors. Unfortunately results and spending are two very different things.
Her last health order was confusing. As it turns out MLG did extended the health emergency yet again, but until May 16.
A recent court victory on UNM Foundation transparency is a victory for good, open government.
A new study says NM is the most dependent US state on the federal government.
RGF recently had an opinion piece that ran regarding New Mexico’s economy and the unique opportunity the State has to put its economy on track. Even with an income tax Colorado's economy performs very well thanks in large part to its Taxpayers Bill of Rights. Paul and Wally discuss how Colorado's recently-announced rebates rival New Mexico’s, but are far superior overall because of TABOR’s systemic approach.
On this week's interview Paul sits down with Rodney Scott, a retired chief of the US Border Patrol and Luna County rancher Russell Johnson.
Although the Rio Grande Foundation does not work directly on border policy issues, there is no question that what happens at the border impacts New Mexicans and is also newsworthy nowadays. This conversation separates border security from immigration policy while diving into several of the important issues facing the United States (and especially those living along the border) when it comes to border policy.
In the first of what will be a handful of "special" episodes of Tipping Point NM, Paul sits down with congressional candidate Louie Sanchez. Louie is a Republican businessman and entrepreneur running in New Mexico's revised 1st District with a primary battle to be decided by voters on June 7. Based on recently redrawn maps, this district could be highly competitive for Republicans looking to unseat Democrat Rep. Melanie Stansbury.
The Foundation has reached out to Stansbury as well as Sanchez's primary opponent Michelle Garcia Holmes and will be sitting down with the latter soon.
On Tipping Point we regularly cover energy issues, but here and elsewhere the pipelines, power lines, and critical and complicated ways in which energy resources are shipped around the globe and to customers is ignored. On this week's interview Paul talks to Brydon Ross. He heads up the Consumer Energy Alliance's State Affairs Policy groups and manages their Pipelines for America Campaign. Ross is incredibly knowledgeable on infrastructure issues impacting everything from venting and flaring to power lines and the infrastructure necessary to export liquefied natural gas from producing states like New Mexico to customers in Western Europe. Check out this informative conversation!
National report gives MLG poor marks on pandemic performance. You can find the report here. The Wall Street Journal also covered the report here.
MLG extended the health order until April 15. Arizona and even Oregon have allowed their emergencies to expire.
The recent special session of the New Mexico Legislature resulted in tax “rebates.” Taxpayers will receive checks of $250/$500 by June 30 depending on single/couple filing status with a second check coming in August. These are “refundable” credits. The rebates will reduce state revenues by $220 million with $20 million of that going to illegal immigrants, seniors, and others who do not file income taxes to the State. This legislation also creates a logistical challenge for the Tax and Revenue Department.
Is Richard Branson abandoning Virgin Galactic (that's according to the investing website Motley Fool)?
NM's unemployment rate remains the worst in the nation in February, but our workforce participation rate remains low as well.
According to Wallethub NM’s ROI for tax dollars is 2nd worst in the nation.
An RGF email survey controversy generates controversy with the Public Regulation Commission.
RGF submits comments and encourages the public to submit their own comments on new Biden Administration charter school regulations. Comments are due by April 13, 2022 (this Wednesday).
On this week's conversation Paul talks to Evan Jones. Evan is on the board of the Foundation and is a realtor in the Albuquerque and Santa Fe markets for Keller Williams.
Paul and Evan discuss the crazy housing market right now and the varying factors creating it. They discuss who is coming in and where they are going and why. They also discuss solutions for the seemingly out-of-control housing market pricing situation.
Whether you are in the market for a house or just interested in the economic forces affecting our State you don't want to miss this discussion.
The New Mexico Legislature is in a special session today discussing "rebates" for New Mexicans.
States are ending their COVID emergencies, but what about New Mexico?
The Pandemic has delayed the social skills of young children.
Where’s Deb Haaland hits the “big time” at National Review online. The article is behind a paywall so you can read it here on the RGF website.
Searchlight NM has an interesting report that highlights the challenge of keeping the lights and homes warm for poor and fixed income families. Alas, as Paul and Wally discuss, they fail to address the causes of the problem.
RGF finally received details on MLG’s travel to Scotland.
ABQ City Council fails to cut taxes, passes bill repealing union-giveaway project labor agreements, and overrides Mayor Keller on plastic bags.
On this week's interview Paul interviews Clarence Washington, Sr. A long-time resident of New Mexico, Clarence is the author of a four-part book series (which can be found and purchased here) "Hijacked, How Dr. King's Dream Became a Nightmare." In this conversation Clarence goes into detail about Dr. King's legacy, what went wrong and why, and what can be done to restore race relations in America and improve conditions for black Americans. You don't want to miss this informative conversation.
Paul visits with Robert McEntyre of the New Mexico Oil & Gas Association (NMOGA) about the state of the industry. They discuss domestic oil and gas production issues against the backdrop of international energy price volatility. They address the impact gasoline prices are having in the United States and New Mexico and policy decisions that have hindered domestic oil and gas production.
Where's Interior Secretary Deb Haaland been hiding?
New Mexico Legislature to convene for special session on April 5. Some kind of "relief" for taxpayers and reconsideration of the vetoed "junior" bill will be on the agenda for the session beginning April 5. Looks like the controversial election bill will not be on the agenda (thankfully).
If the Legislature were to suspend New Mexico's 17 cent gas tax, it would save motorists $240 million annually.
The ABQ Journal has a three part series on the oil and gas industry and the current energy crunch. They (and the media in general) miss some important points.
The "Affordable" Housing fund passed in the Legislature won't make housing in New Mexico more affordable.
Albuquerque City Council passed a vaccine mandate ban and will soon discuss a GRT cut.
Paul and Wally discuss the passing of attorney Pat Rogers.
On this week's interview Paul interviews Trent England of Save Our States. Trent spends most of his time working to save the Electoral College, but Paul and Trent have a wide-ranging conversation about the unique features of the American constitutional system that have prevented some of the worst overreaches of government in foreign countries, especially during the COVID pandemic.
Everything from lack of a national police force to federalism is discussed but so are some of the problems with the American system like a large and growing federal bureaucracy and out-of-control federal spending.
Albuquerque City Council eliminated the plastic bag ban on a 6-3 vote. That's veto-proof. Will the majority hold and override a mayoral veto?
Biden hasn’t held an onshore lease sale and is the only President in at least two decades not to have done so in a given year. Approvals for new liquefied natural gas terminals and expansions are also sitting at the Department of Energy and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, according to the American Petroleum Institute.
The Wall Street Journal reports on the numerous ways in which the Biden Administration is hindering oil and gas.
Biden is considering getting oil from Venezuela?????
Defenders of the Biden Administration's policies fall short.
APS spent $18,594 in FY 2020. By 2022 that number is $22,877.
New Mexico has the highest unemployment rate of ANY state in the nation as of December 2021.
Rail Runner ridership fell off a cliff during COVID. What’s the latest?
On this week's podcast interview Paul sits down with John Block. John blogs and reports at the Piñon Post. At the PostBlock reports and comments on New Mexico politics from the conservative perspective. John and Paul discuss the recent GOP pre-primary convention and highlight some of the candidates running in important races. They also discuss the challenges in voting that occurred and the enthusiasm of the recent convention for big changes to our State. Finally, Paul and John discuss the recently-completed legislative session, especially the "voting" bill which would have led to major issues in New Mexico's election system. They address other important bills that passed or didn't pass this session.
On this week's podcast discussion Paul sits down with Rep. Stefani Lord to discuss the recently-completed New Mexico legislative session.
Stefani, a Republican, represents the East Mountains outside Albuquerque. She was the top performer in the Foundation's Freedom Index vote tracking site during the 2022 session. Paul and Stefani discuss why she ran for the Legislature in the first place, some of the big news stories (not just legislation) of the session, and then address the most important legislative successes and failures of the recently-completed session.
If you want to understand what just happened in Santa Fe and how it impacts you, don't miss this conversation!
At long last, New Mexico's mask mandate has finally been lifted. Most, but not all schools and school districts have also ended their mandates although UNM and CNM have not. Here are some things that STILL need to be done to restore freedom in New Mexico. The unions have also changed their position on masks while ALSO acknowledging that masking kids had a negative impact on learning.
While she will tout the amount of money she and the Legislature will spend on education, no amount of money can save MLG’s awful education track record.
Another Democrat lawmaker behaved badly recently. Rep. Georgene Louis was arrested for DUI and also facing charges of speeding and failing to show her vehicle registration and proof of insurance, according to jail records. House Speaker Egolf announced after the session that he is leaving the Legislature. His chief of staff will run for his seat.
Paul offers his take on the most important bills that passed or did not pass in the recently-completed session. SB 14 Clean Fuel Standard, SB 8 (SB 144), HB 6 (Net-Zero), HB 163 (tax cuts), and HB 132 (interest rate limit). Track how your legislators performed on the Rio Grande Foundation's Freedom Index. How did your legislators vote?
Finally, Paul and Wally discuss the numerous bills and developments regarding utility reliability in New Mexico. What happened during the session and what's next? Will we have electricity in July and August?
On this week's interview podcast Paul talks to Phil Ord of Americans for Nuclear Energy. With so many challenges facing New Mexico's power grid, why not nuclear? Paul and Phil discuss the current situation in nuclear power, why so many oppose it, and what can/should be done to keep the lights on in New Mexico.
Dem. State Rep. Georgene Louis was arrested for DUI and also facing charges of speeding and failing to show her vehicle registration and proof of insurance.
Super Bowl fans and celebrities attend the game (largely indoors) sans masks despite being in LA County. Kids in California (and New Mexico) continue to attend school in masks.
Numerous (blue) states continue to drop masks both indoors and in schools. New Mexico has not and will likely be among the last to do so.
More coverage on PNM in New Mexico media. Where’s discussion on the Energy Transition Act? What will happen next?
The GOP introduced a bill to allow natural gas plants to be considered “renewable” and extend the life of San Juan. HB 220 Sierra Club opposed.
Have you noticed the sudden increase in gas prices? We have. Here’s how the Biden Administration has contributed and here’s what the Legislature is doing to increase them:
New Mexico's AG Balderas signs NM onto anti-natural gas brief pushed by city of Berkeley, CA natural gas ban case.
As the 30-day Legislative session hurtles to a close, we discuss the dysfunctional Legislature and where things stand at this point.
Freedom Index votes are being tallied in real time at the Rio Grande Foundation's website. How are your legislators voting?
The new City of Albuquerque Council is starting to discuss numerous important issues. Efforts are underway to repeal the plastic bag ban, reduce taxes, remove emergency powers, ban vaccine mandates.
On this week's podcast conversation Paul discusses New Mexico's election system with former Rep. Janice Arnold-Jones. During her tenure in the Legislature Arnold-Jones was known for her work on government transparency. She has been working hard to educate voters on SB 6 and SB 8, two election bills moving forward in the current legislative session. While concerned about SB 6, Arnold-Jones has dire concerns about SB 8. Paul and Janice discuss both as well as the current state of New Mexico's election law.
Is PNM looking for last-minute legislation to keep San Juan Generating Station open?
Senator Ben Ray Lujan's stroke (at age 49, no less) creates issues for Washington Democrats.
MLG extends New Mexico’s health order to March 4, by which time we’ll have been in a COVID “emergency” for 2 years (technically March 11).
Unfortunately, bills limiting the Governor's powers in an emergency have gone nowhere.
Several "blue" states have taken major steps towards ending mask mandates for adults and children. In addition to Delaware, New Jersey, and Connecticut, Oregon and California have changed course.
A John Hopkins. working paper says “COVID-19 lockdowns imposed by a variety of governments worldwide had “little to no effect” on COVID-19 mortality. But, they “imposed enormous economic and social costs.”
Georgia Governor candidate Stacey Abrams disregards Georgia mask mandate as masked school kids look on.
Here are some of the worst bills moving in Santa Fe. Unfortunately only "progressive" bills are seeing the light of day with the Gov.'s move to the center having failed (so far) to move the needle.
Egolf mangles process in search of a legislative win.
On this week's podcast Paul interviews Fred Nathan. Fred is the founder of Think New Mexico which describes itself as a "results oriented think tank."
Rio Grande Foundation and Think New Mexico are both working on Social Security tax elimination this session. Fred's organization is working on several other issues that the Rio Grande Foundation is generally in alignment with, but we disagree on the issue of state regulations on loan interest rates. If you care about what is happening in the Legislature, be sure to check this conversation out.
The media is saying it has been a tough start for MLG this session (hydrogen hub, GRT bill, Social Security tax).
NM's current public health order expires on February 4. We know it will be renewed which will take us to the 2 year anniversary of COVID. Gov. Newsom and numerous Hollywood stars attended the LA Rams game mask free. The Super Bowl which is ALSO in Los Angeles is a masked event. Canadian truckers are having a massive convoy to protest vaccine mandates.
One bill restraining the Gov. 's emergency powers stalled in committee, but a new bill, SB 196 limiting those powers in an emergency has been introduced in the Senate. HB 75, the public banking act was tabled, SB 8 voting bill is bad and a top priority of MLG and the Legislature. Here's what it would do.
PNM is now saying it expects power outages this summer.
A new study attacks natural gas appliances in homes, but we have an article debunking it.
Another new study finds pre-K programs can actually have a negative impact on children.
On this week's interview, Paul sits down with Albuquerque Public Schools board member Peggy Muller Aragon. Peggy has been a lone conservative voice on the APS school board, but recently gained some support from a group of more conservative/parent-focused board members. Paul and Peggy talk mask mandates and the latest round of restrictions being imposed on students through the Public Education Department. They discuss what the Board can do about it and what Paul WANTS the Board to do which is to reject ALL forms of masks and "social distancing" immediately.
The two go on to discuss the Sheryl Williams Stapleton situation, new social studies standards, and the use of National Guard (and the Gov. herself) as substitute teachers at this time of need. You don't want to miss this important conversation.
Gov. Lujan Grisham endorses Social Security tax elimination. Can abolition of Social Security taxation pass this session (without revenue offsets)? Also, MLG gives her State of the State address which Paul thought was well-done given the circumstances;
Paul headed to Santa Fe for the session last week. The Legislature's approach to COVID is a farce. Enhanced COVID policies have been implemented administratively at APS. Subsequent changes have been made, but Paul and Wally discuss the need for the new Board to be involved. New Mexico OFFICIALLY has a higher death rate from COVID than either Florida or South Dakota.
RGF files ethics complaint against a state representative. Here is a list of some of the Foundation's best bills this session, so far.
Albuquerque bus ridership continues to plummet as “free” bus fares come into effect.
RGF abandons censorious GoDaddy web hosting.
On this week's podcast interview Paul sits down with Albuquerque City Councilor Dan Lewis. They discuss the big changes that happened last election and what it means for Albuquerque. They talk about some of the major issues facing New Mexico's largest city including crime, homelessness, and the need to lower taxes and make the City a better place to do business. Changes are coming to Albuquerque and Councilor Lewis explains how he and the new more conservative majority are going to work to improve the City.
On this week's podcast, Paul and Wally begin by noting that the Foundation's recent interview with Dr. Deane Waldman was censored by Youtube. The Foundation is currently working to find another video hosting site to host interviews and discussions.
A new report from Yahoo News via the London Telegraph indicates COVID was both man-made AND leaked from a lab and Fauci lied about it.
MLG Cancels MLK parade due to COVID, but Comicon goes on as scheduled at the ABQ Convention Center.
Local Christian (private) school, Hope Christian, fined $5,000 by NM PED for not enforcing masks on students.
Novak Djokovic story just keeps getting more bizarre: he won’t play in Australian Open and has been deported. Now a new law in France may keep him out of the French Open:
SCOTUS denies Biden’s sweeping vaccine mandate on businesses (6-3), but the court allowed a more limited mandate requiring health care workers at facilities receiving federal money to be vaccinated. The vote in the employer mandate case was 6 to 3, with the liberal justices in dissent. The vote in the health care case was 5 to 4, with Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh joins the liberal justices to form a majority.
Despite far more restrictive policies New Mexico now exceeds both South Dakota AND (soon) Florida on COVID deaths per population. Here is the latest tally from World o Meters.
Albuquerque Public Schools cancels classes due to a cyberattack. Another bad look for APS. Will APS get back to school on Tuesday? Bernalillo County ALSO suffered from a major cyber-attack recently and Santa Fe Public Schools have canceled in-person learning for the time being.
Councilor Dan Lewis proposes cutting Albuquerque GRT. That’s triple the tax cut proposed by MLG.
Eliminate New Mexico’s Social Security tax, don’t shift the burden. Paul has put together an early list of the worst bills. These were pre-filed in the 2022 session.
On this week's podcast Paul sits down with Dr. Deane Waldman. Deane is a former pediatric cardiologist at UNMH in Albuquerque. In addition to practicing as a medical doctor, he has an MBA and writes regularly on health care issues on his website. Paul and Dr. Deane talk extensively about COVID and how the medical establishment failed over the last two years. Deane and Paul leave no stones unturned in this thought-provoking and informative conversation.
COVID cases at record levels in New Mexico. More than 4,000 cases for the first time EVER. Lujan Grisham extended the universal indoor mask mandate yet again on Friday. Only WA, OR, CA, HI, IL, and NM have universal indoor mask mandates.
SCOTUS heard case on Biden COVID mandates. The ignorance of several justices, especially Sotomayor was striking regarding basic COVID issues:
· We have over 100,000 children, which we've never had before, in serious condition, and many on ventilators." he current seven-day average for this age group is 766 hospitalizations.
· Omicron just as dangerous as Delta;
· “I’m not sure I understand the distinction why the states would have the power [to institute a mandate such as OSHA’s], but the federal government wouldn’t,” (police powers).
Breyer: “750 million new cases” of coronavirus had been reported in the United States on Thursday.
If the Court were to rule in support of this vaccine mandate it would be one of the most sweeping expansions of federal power in American history. The Court has ruled in favor of state-level vaccine mandates and unfortunately refused to hear New Mexico’s which was implemented by MLG on her own, but has NEVER allowed such a sweeping mandate at the federal level imposed by the President.
Finally, Australia is refusing Tennis player access to the nation due to vaccine mandate. Djokavic had COVID and an exemption, but JUST received a ruling that allowed into the country to play in the Australian Open;
AOC has COVID after partying in Florida. Omicron is easily spread but mild. This MAY finally be the end of the pandemic.
Chicago’s teachers’ unions are refusing to teach (generating national outrage and even with the Mayor). So far the same hasn’t happened in New Mexico and schools remain open;
The CDC after two years is finally going to study those hospitalized WITH COVID as opposed to because of COVID;
MLG releases her budget proposal for the upcoming session with 13.5% annual increase:
- She doesn't explicitly discuss her small GRT cut in her budget. I went back and found an old Bill Richardson budget online and you can bet HE mentioned cutting taxes! With the State experiencing banner growth in the budget thanks to the oil and gas industry (and Washington money-printing), cutting taxes SHOULD be a much higher priority.
That said, even if the Legislature goes along with her .25% GRT rate cut, she is NOT a tax-cutter. She raised taxes on personal income, motor vehicles, hospitals, and in 2021 health insurance taxes.
- In her budget, Lujan Grisham claims, "This administration has created more jobs during the pandemic than the prior administration created in eight years – roughly 40,000." She provides ZERO footnotes or citations for her assertion which is made on page IV of her budget. We used data from Bureau of Labor Statistics and found a very different story. Using the "total civilian labor force" for the beginning/end/most recent month available (November 2021) we see that the number of jobs grew by 7.1% under Martinez while Lujan Grisham is at-2.1 percent.
- Lujan Grisham's budget request includes $2.5 million to create a 15-person “Climate Change Bureau.” (page XIX). The newly-created bureaucracy would cost taxpayers more than $166,000 per employee and would give the Gov. a paid group to push her radical environmental agenda.
- Finally, while there are many items contained in the budget to take issue with, Gov. Lujan Grisham proudly repeats one of her most disturbing lines. On page III she touts "a cradle-to-career education system for all New Mexicans." You don't have to be a raging libertarian to be skeptical of a government that pushes its long tentacles into the cradle.
What will happen during the upcoming 30-day session?
Voting bill is bad news: it would extend the early voting period to the Sunday before election day, creating a permanent absentee voter list, automatically register people to vote with a transaction at the MVD, allow electronic signatures for nominating petitions, create a straight-party ballot option. It would also allow 16 and 17-year-olds to vote in local elections, like school board elections.
Conservative legislative group ALEC calls MLG “worst governor in the nation” https://errorsofenchantment.com/new-report-lujan-grisham-worst-governor-in-the-nation/
Worst 5: Cuomo, Pritzker (IL), Newsom (IL), McKee (RI), and MLG;
Best 5: Noem, Cox (UT), DeSantis, (Polis), and Little (ID).
ALEC rates their Gov.’s on a 5 to 1 star basis. NM is surrounded by 5 star Gov.’s with only OK’s a 4 star Gov. More evidence that NM is a bastion of bad governance in a region of strong governance.
As expected, US greenhouse emissions rose in Biden’s first year: https://www.yahoo.com/news/u-greenhouse-emissions-rose-2021-110721259.html
Emissions rose by about 6.2 percent in 2021 over 2020. Still, emissions remained about 5 percent below 2019 levels;
Lawsuit filed by former CFO over alleged fraud totaling $200 million. Allegations are against: Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, Attorney General Hector Balderas, New Mexico State Auditor Brian Colón, Economic Development Cabinet Secretary Alicia Keys, and current managers at Spaceport America.”
https://errorsofenchantment.com/lawsuit-filed-over-spaceport-corruption/
On this week's interview, Paul talks to Carla Sonntag. Carla is CEO of the New Mexico Business Coalition, a pro-business activism group that works on public policy in New Mexico. Paul and Carla discuss the Coalition's activities and the issues it covers. Specifically, Carla and Paul address the Coalition's interest in energy issues from the oil and gas industry to utilities. Finally, they address the push by some legislators to take over PNM (and others) and create a. new statewide government-owned utility monopoly to carry out the radical green agenda.
COVID cases are at record levels nationwide seemingly due to Omicron. Paul's family recently got COVID. Here's what he experienced. On Friday SCOTUS will hear cases challenging the Biden vaccine mandate.
A national media figure FINALLY makes the case against covid lockdowns and their impact on kids.
Happy 2022. What is going to happen in 2022?
Las Cruces' new ban on plastic bags takes effect on New Year's Day. Patrick Brenner addresses ABQ's (revised) plastic bag ban in ABQ Journal.
RGF appeals an important free speech case to the US Supreme Court.
The latest left-wing fantasy is to make PNM a public utility.
Paul and Wally take a closer look at NM's unemployment rate and population migration data from the Census Bureau.
On this weeks' podcast conversation, Paul interviews New Mexico State Rep. Larry Scott (R-Lea County) about the recently-completed redistricting session. Paul and Larry talk about the new maps for Congress and the Legislature that Democrats in the Legislature pushed through and what those maps mean for New Mexico.
Paul and Larry also discuss the recently-passed "corrective" to the medical malpractice bill that passed earlier this year as a big giveaway to the trial attorneys.
Finally, Larry has written about the Gov.'s proposed "Clean Fuel Standard" which MLG has put on the agenda for the 2022 legislative session. You can read Rep. Scott's analysis and our analysis here.
On this week's podcast conversation, Paul and Wally discuss the rise of Omicron and how it is driving concern and "lockdown" rhetoric in the Biden Administration and other large organizations. So far Gov. MLG has NOT embraced new policies in addition to her ongoing universal indoor mask mandate.
Wally and Paul share their thoughts on the apparent "death" of Build Back Better.
The special session of the Legislature has concluded in Santa Fe. What happened in terms of redistricting? Also, has the medical malpractice situation been worked out?
New York bans natural gas hookups in ALL new construction. In New Mexico the PRC denied PNM's proposal to close the Four Corners plant. Why and what does it mean?
The Rio Grande Foundation has done some digging regarding Spaceport America’s (and more particularly Virgin Galactic's) murky tax situation. It certainly appears that the company owes GRT to state and local governments.
Paul and Wally discuss ABQ City Council’s latest scheme to fleece local taxpayers, but it appears that (thankfully) the legislation will not be voted on until the new Council is seated.
The Santa Fe New Mexican’s editorial board has a dire message for Albuquerque. Paul and Wally discuss.
On this week's podcast conversation, Paul sits down with Jennifer Rivera, MA Ed. Jennifer is the Executive Director of Estancia Valley Classical Academy which is part of Hillsdale College's Barney Charter School Initiative. Jennifer is a return guest and we discuss what makes her charter school unique, the fact that the school just received a 5-year extension on its charter, and the challenges students and families have been dealing with during COVID.
In this in-depth and candid discussion, we discuss lost learning (even at a high-performing school) and how teachers, families, and students alike have dealt with the mental health challenges during the pandemic, the impact of broadband access, and of course the Gov.'s masking mandates. If you are concerned about education in New Mexico, don't miss this conversation.
Last week saw the final runoff votes in Albuquerque's City Council races. Wally and Paul discuss the results and the fact that another "lame duck" city council meeting on December 20 could result in a generous TIDD for UNM.
The special session is still going on in Santa Fe. What's the status of those maps? Paul and Wally discuss. An issue regarding medical malpractice got added to the agenda. Wally and Paul discuss what is happening.
The full PRC has rejected the Avangrid/PNM merger on a 5-0 vote. Where to next?
A new Wallethub report highlights MLG's ongoing failure on unemployment.
RGF files a formal complaint with the AG's office regarding MLG's travel to Scotland.
Covid cases really are declining now in New Mexico.
Polis: "The emergency is over."
MLG: Extends mask mandate to January 7.
California re-imposes a universal indoor mask mandate. So does New York.
The ABQ Journal editorializes on vaccine mandate at Pit. While RGF does NOT support vaccine mandates, we DO question the double standard imposed by MLG regarding forced vaccination and boosters for UNM students and faculty, but no vaccine for basketball fans.
On this week's interview, Paul talks to Dean Stansel, PhD. Dean is a professor at the Bridwell Institute for Economic Freedom at Southern Methodist University in Dallas. He is the lead author of the Economic Freedom of North America Report for 2021 which is published by the Fraser Institute, a free market think tank based in Canada.
Paul and Dean discuss the meaning of economic freedom and its various components and why economic freedom is a good thing. They also discuss which states and even Canadian provinces and Mexican states are the freest. Finally and most notably, Dean and Paul discuss the report's findings and New Mexico's backsliding on economic freedom under Gov. Lujan Grisham.
In a last-ditch effort, ABQ City Council's liberals push through a big union giveaway in the form of a Project Labor Agreement. Is it even legal?
Runoff elections are today. Perhaps if they go well the ordinance can be repealed?
The redistricting special Session kicks off in Santa Fe with mandatory vaccines, metal detectors at the doors, and no guns. Also, Sen. Jacob Candelaria is now an Independent, but the good news is that they are focused on drawing lines and not much else.
After a brief drop NM's COVID case count has suddenly jumped again.
MLG unveils the details of her plans to increase gas prices in the January legislative session.
NM's budget is more dependent than ever on oil prices. Here's the data on oil production which has skyrocketed in recent years.
This news story about "homeless" will make your blood boil. What ARE we paying taxes for anyway?
More info on learning loss during the pandemic.
The latest film subsidy report shows (again) that subsidies are a dud.
Lynne Andersen has been a fixture in Albuquerque politics for decades as the leader of NAIOP (more on that organization in the podcast).
Lynne is leaving the organization at the end of this year and Paul wanted to find out all about her lengthy history in New Mexico politics and how things have changed over the years. In addition to history, Paul and Lynne discuss development and economic issues in Albuquerque and how she sees things the industry and City changing in the future.
On this week's podcast, Paul and Wally begin with a discussion of NM's COVID infection situation and the rise of the Omicron variant. Why is NM's data so slow and how is the infection situation evolving?
Biden's nominee to be Comptroller of Currency appears to be an actual communist or at least has communist sympathies.
Remote learning due to COVID caused a drop in learning. How bad is it for New Mexico which already struggles?
Red states dominate jobs by state recovery since COVID. We crunched the jobs numbers on New Mexico ourselves and the numbers aren't pretty.
Spurred by analysis by our friends in Texas who compared big red and blue states with each other, we compared these big red and blue states with New Mexico. The results are interesting.
A new report on New Mexico's Film subsidy program actually provides further ammunition for critics;
RGF discusses New Mexico's gross receipts tax and MLG's small rate cut in the Las Cruces Sun News.
On this week's podcast interview Paul interviews former New Mexico Congressman and Chairman of the Republican Party Steve Pearce. Joined on the interview are Ashley Soular and Mike Curtis also of the GOP.
Starting out, Paul and Steve discuss the role of political parties and the challenges they face in adhering to the myriad federal and state laws regulating them and their activity.
Then Paul and the group discuss the GOP's new video series "Land of the Last" which highlights some of the major issues facing New Mexico brought on by nearly 100 years of single-party rule.
From Monday, Nov. 16, through Monday, Nov. 30 last year New Mexicans suffered under MLG's "enhanced" lockdown which led to our own bread lines as people were forced to stand outside in the cold to get into grocery stores which were limited to 75 people indoors. The good news is that arguably the Virus appears to have peaked for THIS year in terms of infections.
New Mexico falls further behind in the latest economic freedom report.
Do New Mexico Democrats actually care about “progressive” taxation? Build Back Better is HARDLY “progressive.”
Gov. MLG wants a tiny tax cut. Reducing GRT rates doesn't solve the problem. Spaceport America has a generous tax exemption from the Legislature and is an example of the problem.
Who paid for MLG's Scottish adventure and HOW exactly did she get there?
On this week's podcast, Paul sits down with William Perry Pendley. Perry worked in the Department of Interior under Ronald Reagan and then headed up the efforts of the Mountain States Legal Foundation, a non-profit law firm that defends property rights in the American West. Pendley was appointed to deputy director by President Trump and then became acting director of the Bureau of Land Management in 2019.
Perry and Paul discuss the BLM and its importance in New Mexico, how political shifts have drastic impacts on land management techniques, and the radical politics of people in high places at BLM under the Biden Administration. Enjoy this timely and important conversation!
The Virus is spreading in Colorado and New Mexico, but Jared Polis isn’t going to reimpose a statewide mask mandate. He’s promoting monoclonal antibodies in addition to vaccination instead. MLG doesn’t discuss that much. On the other hand Gov. MLG goes on MSNBC w/ Joe Scarborough on TV IN A MASK.
On KRQE Paul shares how NM’s unemployment rate recovery among worst in US.
Forbes ranks NM schools 51st in USA.
Trever cartoon roasts PNM/warns of blackouts.
NMPRC hearing examiner recommends that PNM be allowed to abandon its interest in Four Corners Generating station.
Paul recaps the recent PED hearing on social studies standards.
In a special interview, Paul talks to Dave Jenkins, President of Conservatives for Responsible Stewardship, about the Federal Oil & Gas Leasing System in New Mexico. The current system overwhelmingly favors oil and gas company executives and speculators over the owners of these resources--the American public. At one time Dave was Legislative staff for Senator Pete Domenici (R-NM).
Angelo Artuso is a pro-liberty attorney based in Albuquerque. He is currently representing a group of Los Alamos National Lab Employees In a Federal Lawsuit Over COVID-19 mandates at the Lab on the basis of religious discrimination. Paul and Angelo discuss numerous legal issues regarding vaccine mandates but also consider the broader Liberty issues at stake and the performance of the judiciary in general throughout the COVID 19 pandemic. You don’t want to miss this timely conversation.
On this week's podcast, Paul and Wally discuss the spread of COVID19 in New Mexico and the high levels of infections occurring in New Mexico. They also discuss the differing media reaction to Florida and states in the Mountain West.
NM Film workers place blame for issues on set w/ out-of-state-leaders. There are also workplace issues with at least this movie. How does this square with New Mexico's highly-subsidized film industry?
Biden’s vaccine mandate for businesses w/ 100 or more employees officially put forth and immediately gets placed on hold by 5th district judge. The Administration is still pushing businesses to comply.
Biden gets help from some House Republicans to pass a $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill. Paul and Wally discuss some details on the bill and the poor politics for the GOP.
Gavin Newsome has declared natural gas “zero carbon.”
The City of Albuquerque has changed its plastic bag ban. Paul does a short interview with Zachary Taylor, director of the American Recyclable Plastic Bag Alliance, about the changes and why they are economically and environmentally harmful.
On this week's interview, Paul talks to Farmington Mayor Nate Duckett. Duckett was first elected Mayor of the Four Corners' largest City in 2018. Mayor Duckett and Paul discuss the economic challenges facing Farmington and how recent trends have led to a "hot" housing market locally AND an improved natural gas industry. They also discuss challenges faced due to the elimination of the region's two coal-fired power plants. Duckett is a proponent of expanding outdoor recreation in his area of the State.
Paul and Wally discuss numerous important results from Tuesday's election including the Virginia and New Jersey governor's races, Mayor Keller's reelection in Albuquerque, defeat of the United Stadium, Albuquerque city council, and school board races/Las Cruces City Council, and more.
The PNM/Avangrid merger was rejected by the hearing examiner. What does this mean?
NM’s House speaker fails on basic economics, tries to stoke “sexism” with claims about UNM basketball program.
Duke Energy CEO says, “You can’t do net-zero without nuclear,” but NM is abandoning nuclear power.
Lujan Grisham and Biden in Scotland for climate summit. Of course they flew (commercial, right?). Numerous others used their private jets to get there.
ABQ Journal polling data shows even in “blue ABQ” voters care less about COVID and climate change than crime, homelessness, and schools.
The Keller Administration will eliminate heavy plastic bags.
NM COVID numbers are NOT dropping despite strict rules.
On the latest Tipping Point New Mexico interview Paul talks to Larry Behrens of Power the Future. Larry and Paul discuss current energy issues in New Mexico and nationally including the rising price of energy across all fuel sources, the unfolding crisis in Europe this winter, MLG's "net zero" plans, and the problems facing New Mexico and its electrical grid this coming summer when San Juan Generating Station shuts down. Energy issues are always critical, but are truly "top of mind" these days. You don't want to miss this conversation!
NM's unemployment rate drops but remains 5th highest in the nation.
Top 11 lowest states have GOP Governors, bottom 8 have Democrats.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) admits it funded risky "gain of function" research at Wuhan lab. Biden Administration is using relief money to push schools to keep masks on in schools. 5,000 New Mexicans have now died.
Heinrich's effort to ban natural gas appliances is based on faulty study. MLG announces legislation making NM "Net Zero" by 2050 at New Mexico Climate Conference at the Roundhouse. Meanwhile, China is mining and using record amounts of coal.
New Mexico's Secretary of State endorses MLG;
PED Secretary Steinhaus needs to show us the data on several controversial moves.
As of October 18, 2021, the Spaceport has now been open for a decade.
Alec Baldwin involved in deadly shooting on movie set in New Mexico. This incident created international news. New Mexico's film industry is heavily subsidized of course.
On this week's podcast conversation, Paul talks to Michael Leach, SIOR. Michael is the Founder and Owner of Sycamore Associates, a commercial real estate firm based in Albuquerque that works primarily in the industrial sector.
Paul and Michael discuss the development of Albuquerque and the relationship between various businesses in the ABQ Metro and how that allows them to serve clients statewide. They also discuss the role public policies play including the permitting process, crime, taxation, and the State's education system.
This is an informative conversation you won't want to miss!
MLG extends the indoor mask mandate through November 12. New Mexico is one of a small handful of states that has an indoor mask mandate. Here is a map. New Mexico's medical system is now in "crisis" mode. What is happening?
Disappointing National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) scores from the "Nation's Report Card" test which was given pre-pandemic are out. Notably, results from the assessment show widening score gaps between higher-performing and lower-performing students, with the changes driven by declines among lower-performing students – a trend that's emerged across other NAEP exams and grade levels in recent years, including in mathematics and reading at grades four and eight.
State fair attendance was way down this year.
Hearings on Four Corners Power Plant & PNM’s planned abandonment include some interesting takes, especially from environmental groups. Rumors of coal’s death are greatly exaggerated. Prices are skyrocketing as utilities embrace coal in order to keep the lights on.
On this week's podcast conversation, Paul sits down with Louie Sanchez a Republican running to be Gov. of New Mexico. The conversation covers Louie's background growing up in Albuquerque, his business efforts, and ultimately focus on the challenges facing New Mexico's current leadership and what he'd do to turn the State around.
Tune in to this informative podcast! Louie's campaign website can be found here.
On this week's podcast, Paul and Wally discuss Gov. Lujan Grisham's health advisor Dr. David Scrase's statement that New Mexicans could be dealing with mask mandates for years to come. According to AARP New Mexico is only one of 7 states to have an indoor mask mandate. California is NOT one of them. Paul wonders: Are we really going to send kids to school in masks for another 2-3 years? More Americans have now died of COVID under Biden than under Trump, but the media doesn’t blame Biden of course. According to Michael Osterholm, an infectious-disease expert at the University of Minnesota (and Biden COVID advisor) quoted in the New York Times “We’ve ascribed far too much human authority over the virus.”
Southwest cancels thousands of flights over the weekend as vaccine mandate kicks in; The 100+ person mandate has not been formally implemented yet, but businesses including Southwest Airlines are using it as cover to impose the vaccine mandate on their workers.
Energy crisis Analysts at Deutsche Bank noted that in Europe prices are up fivefold, while in the U.S. and Asia prices are about 1.5 times higher. In Europe, the price spike in natural gas is equivalent to if oil were trading around $200 per barrel. “The importance of these moves on inflation, growth and external accounts are not to be underestimated,” the firm wrote in a note to clients. “These price moves are a big deal.”
Coal and oil prices are also jumping. West Texas Intermediate crude futures, the U.S. oil benchmark, topped $80 per barrel on Friday for the first time since November 2014. International benchmark Brent crude, meanwhile, traded at its highest level since 2018. Analysts say that elevated natural gas prices could even prompt utilities to swap the fuel for oil. In New Mexico this means even more money flowing into the state.
California took another step toward its goal of ridding the state of all gas-powered engines thanks to a new bill signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom on Saturday. The new law will ban the sale of all off-road, gas-powered engines, including generators, lawn equipment, pressure washers, chainsaws, weed trimmers, and even golf carts. Under the new law, these machines must be zero-emissions, meaning they will have to be either battery-powered or plug-in.
Trever cartoon electric hot air balloons
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s campaign paid an additional $87,500 as part of a settlement with an ex-staffer who accused her of sexual mistreatment, bringing the total dollar amount to $150,000.
Early voting at county clerk’s offices is going on right now. It will spread out around town starting next week. Ali Ennenga in District 3 and Celia Cortez a write-in candidate in District 6 has as well. School board is very important. City Council is as well.
On this week's conversation, Paul talks to Marc Scribner. Marc is a Senior Transportation Policy Analyst with the Reason Foundation, a free-market think tank.
Marc and Paul discuss the ongoing debate in Washington over various "infrastructure" bills. They discuss infrastructure and transportation more broadly and how it is funded. Finally, they discuss a new policy brief Marc wrote about America's freight railroads in which he discusses their tremendous economic impact (including in New Mexico), the fact that these railroads build and maintain their own infrastructure, the Staggers Act which deregulated freight rail 40 years ago, and the Biden Administration's efforts to reimpose regulation on America's freight rail network.
On this week's conversation, Paul and Wally discuss the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association conference that Paul attended. Gov. MLG also made headlines with her talk of hydrogen as an energy source.
After a year hiatus, Albuquerque's International Balloon Fiesta is back. They stood up to the Gov. on vaccine mandates. Paul and his family attended the Balloon Glow Saturday and Paul shares what he saw. Early voting kicks off statewide United Stadium appears to be unpopular despite a slick ad campaign. It’s important to understand that bonds are debt and are paid back through taxes.
Albuquerque Public Schools is looking for a property tax on this fall's ballot. COVID cases have dropped 35%. The New York Times acknowledges the "Virus" operates on 2 month cycles.
New social studies requirements from the Public Education Department (PED) were released recently and they are rife with critical race theory. Additionally, PED Secretary Kurt Steinhaus claimed in testimony recently that for New Mexico teacher salaries to be competitive they'd have to DOUBLE. We question that.
On this week's podcast interview Paul sits down with Vance Ginn, Chief Economist at the Texas Public Policy Foundation. The Foundation is the RGF's "sister" think tank in Texas.
Paul and Vance begin with a discussion of Vance's time in Washington working with the Trump Administration. They have a candid discussion about some of the successes and failures of the previous president on important economic issues.
Vance and Paul move on to a discussion of Texas, it's economy, and comparisons with Florida and big blue states like California and New York. They address the numerous qualities and policies that make Texas an attractive destination as well as some things that Texas still needs to improve upon. They also discuss New Mexico and its situation relative to these four major states.
The Balloon Fiesta pushed back against MLG by NOT requiring vaccines. MLG was NOT amused. Pfizer booster shots now available to some "at risk" groups. Biden received his already while wearing a MASK. The FDA pushed back against "universal" booster which directly contradicted Biden Administration statements. The political wrangling between the Biden Administration, the FDA, and the CDC has been fascinating. Comparing Blue and Red States economically. Europe is facing an energy crisis driven by "green" politics on energy. Paul wrote a piece for National Review in which he discussed why Joe Biden is worse than Jimmy Carter. Down in the polls, the United Soccer team's ownership puts up some cash for their proposed stadium. Is it enough? 40% increase in teacher retirement, but why? Paul and Wally discuss.
On this week's episode, Paul interviews Rob Nikolewski. Rob is currently an energy reporter for the San Diego Union-Tribune. Previously he covered the New Mexico Legislature for Capitol Report New Mexico, a project of the Rio Grande Foundation.
Paul and Rob briefly discuss his prior coverage of recently-indicted Rep. Sheryl Williams-Stapleton.
The two also discuss the recent California recall election and prospective challengers to Gov. Newsome in the 2022 General Election. Finally, the two discuss ongoing energy (especially electricity issues) going on in California AND similar challenges facing New Mexico. Particularly, Rob addresses the recent decision by Gov. Newsome to open and reopen several natural gas electricity generation facilities.
Natural gas price hits the highest level in 12 years. According to the LFC, a 10 cent increase in the price per thousand cubic feet of natural gas translates into $15 million in additional revenue (and it’s not even winter yet!): https://www.nmlegis.gov/Entity/LFC/Documents/Finance_Facts/finance%20facts%20oil%20and%20gas%20revenue.pdf
Where does New Mexico’s electricity come from?
Rep. Williams Stapleton indicted on 26 charges.
The Biden Administration wants the IRS to know A LOT more about your personal finances.
State law targets liquor sales at gas stations, so they stopped selling gas.
Federal Reserve data show inflation is eating up those pay hikes.
PED secretary profiled in Journal. High aspirations, but doesn’t seem inclined/willing to embrace dramatic reform ideas.
One of the United Soccer team's preferred stadium sites appears to be not for sale. Of course, you can use the $50 million for the United stadium for cops instead.
ABQ embraces zero-cost bus fares.
George Mocsary is a law professor at the University of Wyoming who once clerked in Albuquerque for a federal judge here. He is among other things an expert on the 2nd amendment. He was in Albuquerque recently to speak at an event sponsored by the Rio Grande Foundation and the New Mexico chapter of the Federalist Society. His presentation was “The 2nd Amendment as Tyranny Control.”
On this week's episode David Clements, a previous podcast guest and law professor at New Mexico State University, discusses his anti-mask, anti-vaccine activism and job loss.
Will Gov. MLG extend her indoor mask order? RGF has an informal poll on Twitter. We'll report on what happens next.
Biden’s vaccine mandate Executive Order, but what about unemployed and others on government benefits, those with immunity, and those in various relatively unvaccinated minority groups?
ABQ Journal columnist raises interesting questions about Soccer stadium.
A liberal ABQ Journal columnist ALMOST gets it on plastic bag ban.
California will be building FIVE natural gas plants costing $171.5 million per facility in order to keep the lights on during their “energy transition”.
OAK NM surveys on public school candidates are available on the website: https://oaknm.org/school-board-survey/
Corey De’Angelis on education reform Monday September 20 at Albuquerque Museum. Click here to register.
On this week's episode David Clements, a previous podcast guest and law professor at New Mexico State University, discusses his anti-mask, anti-vaccine activism and job loss.
Will Gov. MLG extend her indoor mask order? RGF has an informal poll on Twitter. We'll report on what happens next.
Biden’s vaccine mandate Executive Order, but what about unemployed and others on government benefits, those with immunity, and those in various relatively unvaccinated minority groups?
ABQ Journal columnist raises interesting questions about Soccer stadium.
A liberal ABQ Journal columnist ALMOST gets it on plastic bag ban.
California will be building FIVE natural gas plants costing $171.5 million per facility in order to keep the lights on during their “energy transition”.
OAK NM surveys on public school candidates are available on the website: https://oaknm.org/school-board-survey/
Corey De’Angelis on education reform Monday September 20 at Albuquerque Museum. Click here to register.
On this week's episode David Clements, a previous podcast guest and law professor at New Mexico State University, discusses his anti-mask, anti-vaccine activism and job loss.
Will Gov. MLG extend her indoor mask order? RGF has an informal poll on Twitter. We'll report on what happens next.
Biden’s vaccine mandate Executive Order, but what about unemployed and others on government benefits, those with immunity, and those in various relatively unvaccinated minority groups?
ABQ Journal columnist raises interesting questions about Soccer stadium.
A liberal ABQ Journal columnist ALMOST gets it on plastic bag ban.
California will be building FIVE natural gas plants costing $171.5 million per facility in order to keep the lights on during their “energy transition”.
OAK NM surveys on public school candidates are available on the website: https://oaknm.org/school-board-survey/
Corey De’Angelis on education reform Monday September 20 at Albuquerque Museum. Click here to register.
On this week's episode David Clements, a previous podcast guest and law professor at New Mexico State University, discusses his anti-mask, anti-vaccine activism and job loss.
Will Gov. MLG extend her indoor mask order? RGF has an informal poll on Twitter. We'll report on what happens next.
Biden’s vaccine mandate Executive Order, but what about unemployed and others on government benefits, those with immunity, and those in various relatively unvaccinated minority groups?
ABQ Journal columnist raises interesting questions about Soccer stadium.
A liberal ABQ Journal columnist ALMOST gets it on plastic bag ban.
California will be building FIVE natural gas plants costing $171.5 million per facility in order to keep the lights on during their “energy transition”.
OAK NM surveys on public school candidates are available on the website: https://oaknm.org/school-board-survey/
Corey De’Angelis on education reform Monday September 20 at Albuquerque Museum. Click here to register.
On this week's episode David Clements, a previous podcast guest and law professor at New Mexico State University, discusses his anti-mask, anti-vaccine activism and job loss.
Will Gov. MLG extend her indoor mask order? RGF has an informal poll on Twitter. We'll report on what happens next.
Biden’s vaccine mandate Executive Order, but what about unemployed and others on government benefits, those with immunity, and those in various relatively unvaccinated minority groups?
ABQ Journal columnist raises interesting questions about Soccer stadium.
A liberal ABQ Journal columnist ALMOST gets it on plastic bag ban.
California will be building FIVE natural gas plants costing $171.5 million per facility in order to keep the lights on during their “energy transition”.
OAK NM surveys on public school candidates are available on the website: https://oaknm.org/school-board-survey/
Corey De’Angelis on education reform Monday September 20 at Albuquerque Museum. Click here to register.
On this week’s interview podcast, Paul talks with Karen Bedonie. Bedonie is running for Governor of New Mexico. Paul and Karen discuss her background and what caused her to run for office. They also discuss many of the problems and issues facing New Mexico and how Karen believes her background and experience provide a unique perspective to solve these problems. You can learn more about Karen Bedonie’s campaign at www.bedonietough.com.
Paul’s trip to Florida for the State Policy Network Conference. He reports from the free state.
Will TV man and former US Senate candidate run for Gov.? There have been rumblings that he will.
More on the flood of revenue to the State including early childhood fund.
Despite all the revenue legislators are STILL considering tax hikes.
Deb Haaland has a maskless wedding. A government watchdog is looking into possible improper gifts.
David Scrase wants more COVID testing of kids. Is this really a good idea?
International Balloon Fiesta to require masks, but not vaccines. With all the pressure put on them by MLG, it seems the Fiesta has chosen the most reasonable path.
Virgin Galactic faces more delays. The Federal Aviation Administration said it was grounding all Virgin Galactic flights until further notice, pending the results of the investigation into the company’s July 11 crewed flight. It was recently uncovered that the spaceplane deviated its trajectory outside of cleared airspace.
Public financing in Albuquerque is a debacle and needs to be abolished.
APS holds off on charter moratorium. Hopefully, the NEW board elected this November will be pro-charter.
Wife of an injured police officer calls out Chief Medina and Mayor Keller.
On this week's interview Paul talks to Michael Farren, he is a Research Fellow with the free-market Mercatus Center a think tank based in the Washington, DC area. Michael and Paul discuss the proposed New Mexico United Stadium and what makes this particular deal especially egregious even among stadium deals. Here is an article Michael wrote about a similar soccer stadium deal in Iowa that is referenced in the conversation. Farren has done a great deal of research on public financing of stadiums and broader issues of "corporate welfare." Michael has recommended an "interstate compact" model for reducing such subsidies.
On this week's podcast conversation, Paul and Wally start with a bunch of COVID information. First, they discuss a report from the CDC which says kids wearing masks doesn't work. Former podcast guest David Clements has been fired from NMSU for being unwilling to get vaccine/wear mask in the classroom. MLG's State Fair vaccine policies generate frustration and outrage. In a small bit of good news, the livestock exhibits are relocating to Roswell. Finally, there was another round of protests on vaccine/mask mandates, this one focused on health care & public workers. Finally, one ABQ pastor "gets it" on masking/vaccines.
Wally and Paul discuss mask policies for school kids by state.
NM has "more money than legislators know what to do with"
President Biden is attempting the re-regulation of freight railroads.
Finally, Paul and Patrick of the Rio Grande Foundation are in (pro-freedom) Orlando, FL for a national conference of free-market/conservative think tanks.
On this week's podcast conversation, Paul and Wally start with a bunch of COVID information. First, they discuss a report from the CDC which says kids wearing masks doesn't work. Former podcast guest David Clements has been fired from NMSU for being unwilling to get vaccine/wear mask in the classroom. MLG's State Fair vaccine policies generate frustration and outrage. In a small bit of good news, the livestock exhibits are relocating to Roswell. Finally, there was another round of protests on vaccine/mask mandates, this one focused on health care & public workers. Finally, one ABQ pastor "gets it" on masking/vaccines.
Wally and Paul discuss mask policies for school kids by state.
NM has "more money than legislators know what to do with"
President Biden is attempting the re-regulation of freight railroads.
Finally, Paul and Patrick of the Rio Grande Foundation are in (pro-freedom) Orlando, FL for a national conference of free-market/conservative think tanks.
On this week's podcast conversation, Paul and Wally start with a bunch of COVID information. First, they discuss a report from the CDC which says kids wearing masks doesn't work. Former podcast guest David Clements has been fired from NMSU for being unwilling to get vaccine/wear mask in the classroom. MLG's State Fair vaccine policies generate frustration and outrage. In a small bit of good news, the livestock exhibits are relocating to Roswell. Finally, there was another round of protests on vaccine/mask mandates, this one focused on health care & public workers. Finally, one ABQ pastor "gets it" on masking/vaccines.
Wally and Paul discuss mask policies for school kids by state.
NM has "more money than legislators know what to do with"
President Biden is attempting the re-regulation of freight railroads.
Finally, Paul and Patrick of the Rio Grande Foundation are in (pro-freedom) Orlando, FL for a national conference of free-market/conservative think tanks.
On this week's podcast interview Paul sits down with Thaddeus Preston. Preston is one of the hosts of the New Mexico Rising podcast. The podcast attempts to "give New Mexicans a better understanding of their political and cultural landscape, through in-depth engagement with political figures, business owners, and anyone else who is actively engaged in the effort to see our state reach its full potential."
RGF president Paul Gessing was recently a guest on the podcast.
Thaddeus is libertarian/"MAGA-friendly," African American, ex-military, and works at Sandia National Laboratories. Check out this wide-ranging podcast which includes discussions of a wide range of current issues.
Last week was one of the worst in ABQ in Paul's memory. He shares a bit of his experience due to the shootings/lockdowns in NE Heights.
MLG has imposed a mask mandate and is demanding state fair attendees be vaccinated. Most New Mexico kids are back to school. While it is more "normal" than last year, there are many challenges facing New Mexicans and the education system. Paul wrote about this recently in the Las Cruces Sun News. On his way out the door, NM's (former) PED secretary says he pushed hard for allowing outdoor learning options for New Mexico students (to no avail).
Pfizer vaccine has been approved for adults 16 and up.
The White Sands Balloon Festival has been cancelled for another year. Is this COVID or a federal lands dispute?
According to National Bureau of Economic Research study covered by Yale News on recent research: Using a quantitative model to examine the consequences of extended school closures for high school students, the researchers determined that children living in the poorest 20% of U.S. neighborhoods will experience the most negative and long-lasting effects of school closures. For example, their model predicts that one year of school closures will cost ninth graders in the poorest communities a 25% decrease in their post-educational earning potential, even if it is followed by three years of normal schooling. By contrast, their model shows no substantial losses for students from the richest 20% of neighborhoods.
New Mexico's unemployment rate is now 7.6%, tied with New York and California for 2nd-worst in the nation. The Biden Administration says states can use surplus stimulus money to extend unemployment benefits beyond September 6. Will MLG?
What about a "Guaranteed basic income" for New Mexicans?
On this week's podcast, Paul interviews Jordan McGillis. Jordan is Deputy Director of Policy at the pro-energy Institute for Energy Research, a national pro-energy public policy organization.
Paul and Jordan discuss Gov. MLG's plans to follow California's lead on hyper-regulating your automobile (here and here) as well as Sen. Heinrich's plans to do away with your natural gas appliances (and the new study Jordan's organization has published on the topic).
ABQ City Council votes to put a taxpayer financed United Soccer Stadium on Albuquerque ballots this fall.
It was a depressing week in Albuquerque a 13 year old child was shot and killed at Washington elementary school in what seems like an avoidable tragedy if the father's numerous run-ins with the law had been addressed.
The US pullout from Afghanistan is in chaos where 20 years of involvement falls apart in a few weeks.
The COVID Delta variant continues to spread w/ Pfizer & Moderna vaccines showing only limited effectiveness.
Biden asks OPEC to increase oil production while he attacks US producers.
Despite a judge’s order, the Administration has NOT restarted issuing permits.
Richard Branson may have flown aboard, commercial spaceflights out of Spaceport America, but commercial flights from the facility won't happen for another year.
Census data reflect population growth in conservative areas of Southeast New Mexico.
The Albuquerque Journal acknowledges inflation is becoming a serious issue in several articles, but they don’t have much to say about government policy and how it is creating the problem.
Should the New Mexico Legislature be paid?
Guaranteed basic income for New Mexicans? https://errorsofenchantment.com/thoughts-on-a-guaranteed-basic-income-for-new-mexico/
Timothy Sandefur is an attorney at the Arizona-based Goldwater Institute. He was the Rio Grande Foundation’s attorney in a case before the 10th Circuit dealing with donor privacy that recently was decided by the appeals court. Paul and Tim discuss the case, the US Supreme Court, and issues of donor privacy.
NM vaccine mandate for state employees. Gov. and numerous other Democrat legislators, US senators/reps, and legislators send letter “asking” businesses to require vaccination for employees AND customers. Will this lead to fraudulent vaccine cards?
7 day moving average COVID deaths as of August 8, 465. In January that was 3,500. Aside from a month ago or so the ONLY time we had lower numbers of COVID deaths in the USA was in late March of 2020. NM death rate remains 13th-highest. Much-criticized Florida is 26th highest. Dr. Michael Osterholm who was one of Biden’s top COVID advisors recently made waves saying cloth masks don't really work. Floyd and Cloudcroft school districts stand up to the Gov. on masking kids and Floyd is suspended.
MLG is coming for your car again (clean fuel standards upcoming session) Also, On top of that the State is now involved in rule-making to require that between 7 and 10% of vehicles sold in NM by 2025 will have to be “zero emissions.”
A new taxpayer-financed stadium for the United Soccer team is on the ballot this fall: In public comment, critics outnumbered supporters about 13 to 1.
City of Albuquerque matches record w/ 81 homicides, RGF visits and photographs sites near planned stadium.
RGF “loses” battle in war over campaign finance: 10th circuit Court of appeals claimed we didn’t have standing in a campaign finance case involving Santa Fe Soda Tax.
On this week's podcast, Paul interviews Jason Bedrick, Director of Policy with the national school choice group EdChoice.
School choice has made unprecedented gains in 2021 thanks in part to the Pandemic and in part to the strong leadership of politicians in states that have been willing to buck the unions and bring long-overdue reform to American education. You can see a list of achievements here. The Rio Grande Foundation remains deeply concerned by New Mexico's poor performance and the relative paucity of choice so it started a new educational effort within the Foundation called "Opportunity for All Kids New Mexico." Edwin Aybar Lopez with OAKNM comes into the conversation toward the end.
Busiest news week ever?
New rules for COVID 19. State releases rules on Monday, CDC follows up, APS enacts universal masking in schools. What’s the science? Does it make any sense to tell vaccinated people to mask up? Masks are ALSO recommended. Are lockdowns coming?
20 cities across New Mexico held anti-masking in school policies. We attended the one in ABQ.
Sheryl Williams Stapleton is in trouble. We can explain the details and what it means. RGF has long had concerns with Rep. Stapleton’s name being attached to a facility at Expo NM. She has resigned from her House seat.
The NM United soccer team has unveiled plans for a new taxpayer-funded soccer stadium. RGF has concerns.
PNM is concerned about brownouts next summer when the San Juan Generating Station is closed.
A new report says NM is the #1 economically-failing state while Utah is the #1 thriving state.
RGF calls Attorney General’s Public-Nuisance Suit against medical-product sterilization firm a dangerous abuse of state authority
Senator Heinrich responds to our natural gas piece. So does Demis Foster of Conservation Voters New Mexico. We discuss.
In this special interview, Paul talks to Rep. Bill Rehm about his past efforts to prohibit subdivisions of State government like APS from paying employees like Rep. Williams Stapleton for their time in Santa Fe during which they also received per diem.
Also, Rehm and Gessing discuss plans to break up APS in favor of a few smaller districts.
On this week's podcast, Paul sits down with State Representative Rebecca Dow. Dow is running for Gov. of New Mexico. Paul and Rebecca discuss her background and what caused her to run for office. They also discuss education in New Mexico and some of the big challenges facing that system as well as the State economy and what she would do about it if elected. Check out this important conversation!
On this week's podcast discussion, Paul and Wally discuss the Gov.'s new "back to school" policies including mask requirements for elementary students/teachers and vaccine verification for junior high and high school students.
Last week was a very busy media week for RGF. It included a conversation with Fox Business Channel on film subsidies, Paul in the ABQ Journal discussing how Sen. Martin Heinrich is coming for your natural gas appliances, Patrick Brenner discusses Richard Branson abuse of New Mexico taxpayers in The Federalist.
One radical environmentalist NM Senator Soules is a big hypocrite when it comes to private jets.
"Shockingly" New Mexico's education system has failed to improve under the Yazzie lawsuit. Paul discusses how Regis Pecos was one of Speaker Lujan's top advisors but when we came to him with education reforms he didn't do anything.
Mayor Keller plans to force taxpayers to pay $65 to $70 million for the United soccer team and that doesn't include land acquisition or cost overruns.
Journal cartoon "nails" a lot about NM politics. Paul explains.
Are you wondering what is happening in the local real estate market and what State, local, and even federal policies are impacting home prices and availability? RGF board member and realtor Evan Jones discusses the situation in this informative podcast.
Paul recently took another trip. He reports on mask mandates on airplanes & public transport among other things.
Jeff Bezo joins Richard Branson as a billionaire having been to space.
Pediatrics group wants ALL kids and staff to wear masks this fall. MLG still hasn’t announced a specific policy.
RGF settles w/ Keller Administration regarding open records.
RGF has never been a fan of public financing of elections and we fought this w/ Democracy Dollars. Mayoral candidate Manny Gonzales recently received a reminder of how "public" financing can be politicized.
New Mexico’s unemployment rate is tied for highest in USA. RGF also looks at the workforce participation rate.
For once ProgressNow DOES have a point about oil and gas.
More talk about reform of NM’s GRT.
How do we address homelessness? An excellent Prager U video has some ideas.
On this week's podcast, Paul discusses the PNM/Avangrid merger with RGF energy and utility analyst Kenneth Costello. While RGF doesn't have a position one way or the other on the merger, it does care deeply about New Mexico utility customers and the potential for power disruptions and rate increases. This is one of the most pressing issues facing New Mexico policymakers this summer.
On this week's discussion: Richard Branson makes it to "space." Does this mean the Spaceport was a good idea? What's next for Spaceport America?
New COVID rules for school children have been handed down by the CDC. What do they mean for kids who will be starting school in a month?
Sen. Heinrich is coming for your gas stove/heater/water heater/ and gasoline car.
RGF in National Review Online:
Socialism is rising among NM's leadership.
The Kids County Report is reasonable. The partisan spin is not.
On this week's podcast interview Paul sits down with Carri Phillis.
Carri is a local nightclub owner and entrepreneur. She has been involved in libertarian-leaning politics in New Mexico for over a decade, but the primary topic of conversation is the last 15 months of Gov. Lujan Grisham's COVID policies and Carri's involvement with the Gov.'s Economic Recovery Council. Carri shares her own experience as a business owner, her personal experiences as a mother, and the work of the Council. You don't want to miss this discussion!
In a recent post at Errors of Enchantment Paul notes that several data and recent polling highlight and explain New Mexico's poor governance.
NM is among states w/ largest outflow from gov't schools/to home school. Other states are racing ahead on school reform which NM generally stands pat.
SCOTUS rules on donor privacy.
Can ABQ be a job leader?
NM/federal stimulus funding both sides of the jobs equation.
Donald Rumsfeld was a statesman with a wide and varied career and he was a supporter of the Foundation. Paul acknowledges his passing in Taos, NM. Paul interviews Doug Messier of the blog Parabolic Arc (which tracks the private space industry) about Richard Branson's plans to head to "space" out of Spaceport New Mexico on July 11th.
On this week's episode, Paul discusses Mississippi's recent educational successes with Dr. Jameson Taylor of the Mississippi Center for Public Policy, a free-market think tank based there. Mississippi and New Mexico so often struggle at the very bottom of the "good" lists and rise to the top of the bad lists, but as Paul noted recently, Mississippi has seen some recent improvements in the area of 4th grade reading on the "gold standard" NAEP test. So, what did Mississippi do to improve educational outcomes? Ironically, for many New Mexicans, this will be a case of "Back to the Future" as Mississippi's playbook looks a lot like that of former Gov. Susana Martinez. You don't want to miss this conversation!
On this week's podcast conversation, Paul and Wally discuss reports that the government schools saw a big drop in enrollment due to homeschooling during the pandemic.
The annual KIDS COUNT report from Annie E. Casey/Voices for Children has been released. NM goes from 50th to 49th. MLG is happy about this but this is 2019 data. We’ll truly see the impact of COVID 19 (possibly) next year.
It was a big week for NM’s subsidized film industry as new taxpayer-funded facilities NBC Universal in Albuquerque AND Totah Theater in Farmington opened. The theater, which was acquired by San Juan County last year and underwent a $1 million renovation over the past several months. The facility will be used for film screenings and live entertainment events, but its upper floors will be available to film and TV industry representatives to rent for office space.
At the NBC Universal grand opening, fully vaccinated Gov. MLG wore a mask outdoors. At a Mora County Democrat fundraising event (posted on her Twitter account) the Gov. was the ONLY one wearing a mask at yet another outdoor event.
Paul notes that criticizing the vaccinated Gov. for wearing a mask at public events REALLY drives the Twitter liberals crazy. He suggests following both his personal and the RGF Twitter accounts.
NM’s awful unemployment rate is the 2nd-highest in the country.
Paul and Wally discuss Santa Fe’s fake “Universal Basic Income” experiment.
NM’s Department of Information Technology doesn’t have a record retention policy.
US Census data offer clues on redistricting.
Bank of America forecasts $100/barrel oil during 2022.
On this week's podcast, Paul interviews gubernatorial candidate Greg Zanetti. Greg hopes to bring his experiences as a financial manager and Brigadier General in the U.S. Army to New Mexico's government. You don't want to miss this wide-ranging and interesting conversation!
NM didn’t quite get to its 60% vaccination rate, but the Gov. says NM will be “totally reopened” on July 1. This is welcome news, but it's also not really true (not for our children, yet).
Now that COVID IS receding as an issue, the debate will be over Gov. MLG’s performance during the pandemic. Paul cites a national report to show why he believes she did a poor job.
Speaking of COVID performance, NM's Education Secretary Stewart recently took a “victory lap” on COVID 19. Again, the data don't seem to back him up.
The Biden Administration wants your kids (as young as 12) to push their friends and families to take the vaccine.
One of the largest and most prominent hotels in New Mexico is totally shuttered.
Did a federal judge just unleash a new era of energy-driven prosperity in New Mexico?
While the State of New Mexico and its citizens may benefit from oil and gas jobs, MLG wants to impose ethanol and other supposedly “green” fuels on drivers during the next legislative session.
On this week's interview, Paul sits down with Sandoval County Commissioner and gubernatorial candidate Jay Block. Paul and Jay have worked on a number of pro-freedom issues, notably local "right to work" ordinances that were ultimately adopted in 10 of New Mexico's 33 counties (including Block's home County of Sandoval which adopted the ordinance first). Paul queries Jay on a number of other issues relating to his priorities for New Mexico, its economy, and the track record of current Gov. Lujan Grisham.
On this week's conversation, Paul and Wally discuss several important news items that the media got wrong in advance of the 2020 election.
Sen. Joe Manchin opposes ending the filibuster and the passage of the awful HR 1 through Congress. 24 New Mexico Democrats support Biden's moratorium on federal oil and gas permitting. At the same time New Mexico's revenues are up $350 million thanks largely to oil and gas and the price being over $70 a barrel. The industry continues to thrive despite the number of drilling rigs being down. Biden is also opposed to oil and gas in Alaska and the Keystone XL pipeline is dead. Paul and Wally discuss the issues w/ oil and gas. RGF was recently censored by Youtube. Richard Branson wants to launch out of Spaceport America as soon as Independence Day weekend to beat Jeff Bezos to space. Is inflation back? Free buses in Albuquerque and Enchant Energy will experience delays as it moves to implement carbon capture technology to keep San Juan Generating Station open. Finally, Paul was recently in Idaho to meet with occasional Tipping Point guest Grover Norquist.
On this week's conversation, Paul sits down with Jeffrey Smith of New Mexico Copper Company. After over 300 episodes of the show, this is the first time Paul has had a chance to interview someone from the non-oil-and-gas mining industry.
Jeff and Paul discuss the copper industry, the proposed Copper Flat mine that his company is working to get permitted, environmental issues in mining, and the particular importance of mining in Biden's push for electric vehicles and "renewable energy."
On this week's podcasts discussion, Wally and Paul talk about Mark Moores getting clobbered 63% to 33% in the Congressional District 1 race; What went wrong? What does it mean? What does it mean for redistricting?
Paul gives "props" to Mayor Tim Keller for vetoing Albuquerque's gas tax;
On COVID 19, all New Mexico counties are now in turquoise
An Albuquerque Journal sports reporter had an important article over the weekend on Gov. Lujan Grisham's ongoing policy of demanding athletes wear masks in New Mexico. In continuing the sports theme, golfer Jon Rahm was forced to withdraw from the Memorial golf tournament over the weekend due to a positive COVID test and despite having no symptoms. Rahm was leading by a robust 6 strokes.
Paul provides a brief update on the ongoing CYFD story; Thankfully Fauci didn’t delete emails like MLG has been.
With half of all US states (all of them GOP-led) rejecting “$300 supplemental” unemployment benefits, the Federal Reserve indicates the policy is likely to get people back to work.
The La Luz trail race is forced to cease. This makes radical environmentalists happy.
Craziness ensues at two local campaign events. Mayoral candidate Manny Gonzales' event was disrupted by a drone outfitted with a sex toy followed by a physical attack. Gov. MLG (at her campaign launch) suffered taunts and protests. She then called her opponents lizard people & Q’Anon.
On this week's interview, Paul sits down with the Foundation's own Patrick Brenner. Aside from being the organization's Vice President of Development, Patrick handles a wide variety of open government and transparency issues for the Foundation. Patrick and Paul discuss the unfolding scandal at New Mexico's Children Youth and Families Department (CYFD) which involves the destruction of public records and the firing of whistleblowers at CYFD.
Open government is the lifeblood of good government. Patrick has been working to hold Gov. Lujan Grisham and others who are attempting to keep public information private, or destroy it outright. Don't miss this important and informational conversation.
As Covid continues to recede as an issue along with the lockdowns, the main remaining issue is masking children. The excellent tracking site at Burbio shows who is requiring masks for kids and who isn't. New Mexico remains among the more stringent states. The New Mexico Legislature allocated additional money this session to give local school districts money to extend their school years. A significant number of districts (thanks to pressure from parents and families) have opted out. Paul and Wally discuss what could be causing this. Paul briefly mentions a scandal involving CYFD. Here and here are recent articles discussing the issue from RGF's perspective. The City of ABQ is set to reinstate its plastic bag ban on August 1.
Finally, based on a report from Bloomberg which says that Western states could be suffering from electricity blackouts THIS summer, Paul is concerned about the reliability of New Mexico's power grid. Of course, with San Juan Generating Station scheduled to be decommissioned in ONE year, Paul is even more worried about future summers. Paul and Wally discuss and attempt to figure out when we'll know if the plan to save San Juan via carbon sequestration will move forward.
On this week's interview, Paul gets (now) former KOB TV reporter Patrick Hayes on the other side of the microphone for a conversation about the inner workings of New Mexico's media.
Patrick recently took a reporting job in Phoenix, but before he left the two sat down to discuss how the media works right here in New Mexico, how decisions are made regarding what to cover, and how average New Mexicans with a story to tell or information to provide can get their message out. While we will definitely miss Patrick and his excellent reporting, you also won't want to miss this informative interview.
On this week's conversation, Paul and Wally discuss the fact that Virgin Galactic achieved its first official space flight in a test over the weekend.
A story from Searchlight NM raises serious concerns on MLG’s open records issues at CYFD.
RGF appears in National Review on Census data.
NM’s unemployment rate is now 8.2%, tied for 3rd worst in the nation.
According to Grover Norquist, of the top 15 states with lowest unemployment rates, 12 have GOP Governors. The 10 states with the highest unemployment rates are all led by Democrat Governors: California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, and Pennsylvania.
According to Phil Kerpen: 24 states have announced they are ending unemployment bonuses. The only Republican governors who are keeping the bonuses are Hogan in Maryland, Baker in Mass, and Scott in Vermont. Still zero Democrat governors have opted out.
RGF digs into per-pupil education data from the Census Bureau and requests the information itself.
ABQ City Council puts gas tax hike on the ballot for next November. Paul and Wally discuss the problems with this new tax.
On this week's interview, Paul sits down with Derek Muller, a law professor at the University of Iowa. Muller was in town to speak to the lawyer's chapter of the Federalist Society of New Mexico. Muller's expertise is in election law, an area that has gained incredible attention and controversy in recent years. Was the 2020 election "stolen"? How widespread was fraud? What about states that altered their election laws in the waning days before the election?
Also, what about state or national reforms to the system? Are those positive or negative and how important will they be in making the system better (or worse)?
On this week's conversation, Paul and Wally discuss the CDC's revised mask requirement. Now, most “vaccinated” people are NOT required to wear a mask indoors or out. Pushing people to get vaccinated has become the primary government focus. What about the children wearing masks for sports or school next fall? Paul recently went bowling and recounts his experience at CVS. The New Mexico United continued their mask mandate at least initially. What about the Isotopes? Paul's wife recently received the 2nd dose of the vaccine. She had some temporary issues. Is the pandemic over in any realistic sense? How long will it take businesses to revise their policies and people to relax their mask usage? Finally, Rachel Maddow spoke for many on the left regarding the new CDC mask guidance: “I gonna have to rewire myself so when I see someone out in the world who is not wearing a mask, I don’t instantly think you are a threat.” The Albuquerque Journal has a big story on literacy. After a total of four stories spanning two days they STILL haven't discussed either New Mexico's failing K-12 system OR Susana Martinez's efforts to end social promotion in New Mexico schools. Mississippi which is often lumped in with New Mexico as a poor performer in educational success MAY have a solution. You can check out their improvement here and stories discussing it here and here. We’re now up to 21 states that have rejected unemployment benefits. Stansbury on the labs? Stansbury also tell energy workers whose jobs have been lost due to radical environmental policies: “sell your art or wool.” UNM faculty want the University to divest from oil/gas. Annual La Luz race ends thanks to Forest Service rules. Finally, the Associated Builders and Contractors of New Mexico has filed a suit against Bernalillo County over its "Public Labor Agreement" law. Paul interviews the attorney on the case.
On this week's interview, Paul talks to Charles Sullivan. Sullivan is a New Mexico-based retired attorney and writer at the popular political website American Thinker. You can read some of Sullivan's articles here.
Sullivan has written about various New Mexico political issues including the misguided New Mexico Legislature and his experience traveling to Texas to obtain the COVID 19 vaccine.
On this week's podcast conversation, Paul and Wally discuss the latest revisions MLG has made to her emergency orders.
While nearly all counties are in Turquoise, Chaves County remains in the yellow for some hard-to-understand reason.
The disappointing national jobs report and rise in unemployment appears to have been caused by President Biden's overly-generous extended unemployment benefits.
New Mexico’s unemployment rate is 8.3% which is third-highest in the nation, but businesses are having real issues finding workers. To her credit, Gov. Lujan Grisham has reinstated a requirement that those on unemployment actually search for a job as a condition of receiving unemployment benefits. But, Montana and South Carolina are really tackling the issue by eliminating the added unemployment benefits. Montana is giving workers a bonus after they keep a job for 4 weeks.
New Mexico oil and gas royalties set a monthly record on STATE lands.
According to a Bloomberg piece the US will need a lot of land for Biden’s zero-carbon economy. Already government policies vastly inflate the amount of land needed for energy production. Finally, Paul talks with Larry Behrens of Power the Future about a new rulemaking for ozone precursor particles. They discuss the rulemaking process and this proposed rule and its potential impacts on New Mexico.
On this week's interview, Paul sits down with Ana Garner a New Mexico-based attorney with NM Stands Up! Garner and Gessing discuss the need for change in the way Gov. Lujan Grisham has controlled the State and its response to COVID 19.
Garner and her organization are suing the Gov. and working to obtain support for those lawsuits. You don't want to miss this fascinating conversation!
On this weeks discussion podcast, topics include:
- MLG completely revamps her emergency orders. Overall, the situation is much better. Moving to full opening by late June depending on vaccination progress; Youth sports outdoors.
- Mask mandate changes. More to come?
- On May 1st after being closed for more than 1 month, New Mexico golf courses reopened.
- Fallout for New Mexico census, LFC report.
- Passing the buck for NM’s slow population growth.
- Stansbury tells Channel 4 the economy is her “number one issue” yet voted consistently for higher taxes.
- APS enrollment continues to plummet, yet money is not an issue at APS.
- Breaking: In a major economic shot in the arm for New Mexico, Intel will invest $3.5 billion and hire 700 permanent workers for its Rio Rancho plant.
- The Gov. says she will “incentivize” people to go back to work. RGF on KOAT 7 discussing why people aren’t getting back to work despite NM’s elevated unemployment rate.
On this week's podcast interview Paul sits down with David Clements. A libertarian-leaning law professor at New Mexico State University, David once ran for US Senate as a Republican, but he (like Paul) was not necessarily a fan of President Trump in his run for the White House in 2016.
Clements not only had a change of heart during Trump's time in office, but he has actively engaged in tracking down many problems and issues with the 2020 election. David has also spoken out publicly against "critical race theory" and efforts to stifle free speech in the halls of academia. Don't miss this timely and informative interview! You can find out more about David and his numerous interviews and discussions at: https://www.theprofessorsrecord.com.
On this week's podcast conversation Paul and Wally discuss:
- The latest COVID maps are out and the situation seems to have stalemated or even worsened.
- Will the State change its metrics and if so, how?
- The deposition of NM's Health Secretary throws "science" into question.
- Reporter Patrick Hayes questions Scrase who tap dances.
- NY Times says wearing masks outdoors makes no sense.
- Census data are out including data on New Mexico's slow population growth and national population shifts.
- Sierra County news article uses RGF data to question Spaceport. Of course, SpaceX is running ahead.
- Bernalillo County building taking shape with name emblazoned across Albuquerque skyline.
- Las Cruces City Council considering plastic bag ban. RGF op-ed in Las Cruces paper argues against this.
- RGF publishes payroll for NM cities & will continue to roll out additional data.
On this week's podcast conversation Paul and Wally discuss:
- The latest COVID maps are out and the situation seems to have stalemated or even worsened.
- Will the State change its metrics and if so, how?
- The deposition of NM's Health Secretary throws "science" into question.
- Reporter Patrick Hayes questions Scrase who tap dances.
- NY Times says wearing masks outdoors makes no sense.
- Census data are out including data on New Mexico's slow population growth and national population shifts.
- Sierra County news article uses RGF data to question Spaceport. Of course, SpaceX is running ahead.
- Bernalillo County building taking shape with name emblazoned across Albuquerque skyline.
- Las Cruces City Council considering plastic bag ban. RGF op-ed in Las Cruces paper argues against this.
- RGF publishes payroll for NM cities & will continue to roll out additional data.
On this week's podcast conversation Paul and Wally discuss:
- The latest COVID maps are out and the situation seems to have stalemated or even worsened.
- Will the State change its metrics and if so, how?
- The deposition of NM's Health Secretary throws "science" into question.
- Reporter Patrick Hayes questions Scrase who tap dances.
- NY Times says wearing masks outdoors makes no sense.
- Census data are out including data on New Mexico's slow population growth and national population shifts.
- Sierra County news article uses RGF data to question Spaceport. Of course, SpaceX is running ahead.
- Bernalillo County building taking shape with name emblazoned across Albuquerque skyline.
- Las Cruces City Council considering plastic bag ban. RGF op-ed in Las Cruces paper argues against this.
- RGF publishes payroll for NM cities & will continue to roll out additional data.
On this week's podcast interview Paul sits down with Michael Johnson to discuss energy reliability both in Texas AND New Mexico.
Recently Texas suffered from serious energy reliability failures, but a decade ago many New Mexicans went without natural gas for days during one of the coldest times in recent memory. Michael Johnson is a New Mexican. He wrote the definitive report on what happened in New Mexico a decade ago. Johnson, a member of ERCOT for several years in the '90s, has also studied what happened in Texas and what caused the recent outages. Johnson's experience includes serving as the CEO of Conoco Gas and Power, the midstream business of Conoco Inc., and early 2000s, he was also Chairman of the Natural Gas Supply Association headquartered in DC for several years over the same period, which represents large natural gas producers.
On the latest Tipping Point New Mexico Paul discusses the fact that the CDC has now confirmed that he was correct in questioning "surface spread" of COVID over a year ago. Last year at this time Mayor Keller shut down Albuquerque playgrounds and parks. Paul and his family did not obey these restrictions and were criticized for it at the time.
NM has high unemployment and yet businesses can’t find workers because too many are getting checks for doing nothing.
Some "blue" states are making COVID rules permanent. Paul is concerned this could happen in New Mexico.
Scott Elder has a brand new contract at APS. Paul and Wally discuss the particulars and problems with the contract.
A new report finds the US Department of Interior (headed by Deb Haaland of New Mexico) is shortchanging NM on conservation funding.
The Biden Administration wants another $2 trillion “Stimulus” infrastructure via the so-called "American Jobs Plan." Paul discusses the fact that most of the money Biden wants to spend in the bill is not infrastructure-related. He also outlines a few policy changes that COULD be addressed if Biden actually wanted to improve infrastructure in the US.
On this week's episode, Paul interviews Grover Norquist, president of Americans for Tax Reform. There has been a lot of bad policy coming out of Washington, DC, during the first few months of the Biden Administration. Whether it is the $2 trillion "stimulus" or another $2 trillion "infrastructure" bill or attacks on free speech and Right to Work, the amount of transformationally bad public policy moving in Washington is almost too much to keep up with. Thankfully Grover spends his days and even nights working on these issues. If you want to know what is happening in the federal government you don't want to miss this conversation.
On the latest Tipping Point NM conversation, Paul and Wally discuss a few articles showing that there is "no such thing as a free lunch" when it comes to energy.
ABQ/Bernalillo County remains in Yellow. San Juan County moves from Turquoise to green. There is no end in sight for MLG’s rules.
Back to School seems to be going fine, but the number of students in school is down.
Gov. signs “food freedom” bill but vetoes “earmark” of federal funds for unemployment insurance. The unemployment veto is important for both policy reasons as well as separation of powers.
Paul goes through the results of the Foundation's annual Freedom Index:
Freedom Index Results
House: best 1) Rep. Strickler 122 points 2) Rep. Stefani Lord 109 points 3) Rep. Randal Pettigrew 108 points
Senate: best 1) Sen. Pirtle 68 points 2) Sen. Moores 65 points
House: worst 1) Rep. Miguel Garcia -189 points 2) Speaker Egolf -187 points
Stansbury -177 points
Senate: worst 1) Sens. Steinborn & Sen. Stewart -150 2) Sen. Stefanics -146 3) Sen. Katy Duhigg -145
New Mexico's Human Services Department's data book paints a bleak picture of NM.
On this week's podcast interview Paul sits down with Corey DeAngelis, an education expert with American Federation for Children and numerous other education reform organizations. They discuss how the fight for educational choice has ramped up during COVID and discuss both the empirical evidence on a number of education issues as well as some recent success stories and what is driving them. DeAngelis is a tireless advocate for education reform. Check out this exciting and timely discussion!
On this week's discussion, Paul shares his first-hand perspective of another locked-down state, California including the similarities and differences with New Mexico.
Melanie Stansbury wins the Democratic Party nomination for New Mexico's first congressional district (CD1) in an upset. She will face Mark Moores and others in a June election. What distinguishes these two candidates?
Marijuana is legalized in a special session of the New Mexico Legislature. How it happened and what might the rollout of this legislation look like for New Mexico
Back to school (in-person) for (some) New Mexico public school students.
Kentucky Education Savings Accounts are adopted. Will this trend come to New Mexico? Don't hold your breath.
On this week's interview, Paul interviews Larry Behrens of Power the Future New Mexico. They have set up a website: https://www.yourefrackingwelcome.com to honor and thank workers in the oil and gas industry.
Furthermore, Larry and Paul worked together on reopening New Mexico and the Gov.'s COVID restrictions. They start the program by discussing how their recommendations made back in April of 2020 would have been much better for New Mexicans and small businesses in the State.
On this week's podcast, Paul and Wally discuss the fact that more NM counties continue to improve on COVID.
Cliffs Amusement Park is set to reopen on May 8. Hinkle Family Fun Center is still not open but is hiring. How easy will it be for these businesses to find employees with all the "free" money floating around?
Arizona and Utah remove nearly all COVID restrictions
Two weeks after opening Texas continued to see a decline in COVID cases
In Texas when the State dropped its mask mandate on March 10 there were 5,350 new cases and a rolling 7 day average of 4,909. By March 28 there were 3,293 new cases and a rolling 7 day of 4,005.
In New Mexico which remains relatively locked down and with a mask mandate in place, on March 10 there were 249 new cases and a rolling 7 day of 227.
By March 28 in NM there were 161 new cases with 7 day rolling average of 188.
New Mexico's Special Session begins Tuesday, March 30, 2021. Thankfully only two issues on agenda, but the timing is awkward and politically-motivated.
Who did well or poorly on the Freedom Index?
State Sen. Mark Moores gets GOP nod for GOP in CD1
Paul and Wally discuss several issues left undiscussed during the 2021 session:
Right to Work; Reduction of or elimination of New Mexico's income tax; Reforming the GRT; Occupational licensing reform; Eliminate film subsidies; Consider new approaches to Rail Runner and Spaceport; Ambitious school choice/efforts to empower parents to choose education that makes sense for their child; Higher education reform; Repeal ETA or institute rate caps to make sure utilities don’t increase rates rapidly;
14 states are suing Biden on oil/gas moratorium, but not New Mexico even though we are the State most impacted.
Finally, we discuss teacher bashing.
On this week's episode, Paul sits down with former New Mexico media personality Larry Ahrens. For decades Larry was a fixture on radio and television throughout our State. Paul and Larry specifically discuss the early days of having Rush Limbaugh on KKOB radio.
Recently, Larry moved to Arizona for a variety of reasons that we discuss during the podcast. We discuss the differences between Arizona and New Mexico and why New Mexico is held back by its political leaders from achieving greater economic and social welfare success.
On this week's podcast conversation, Paul and Wally discuss the conclusion of the 2021 Legislative session. Gov. Lujan Grisham plans to call a special session to deal with marijuana legalization. Wally and Paul discuss whether that is a good idea. They discuss allegations of "bullying" and they discuss some of the most important bills that passed or failed in the legislative session. Over the weekend rallies were held across New Mexico in support of reopening the State. Paul discusses what he saw at the Albuquerque rally. Gov. MLG says New Mexico stands to lose $709 million between this fiscal year and 2025 if there’s a 10 percent decline in production. Deb Haaland has been confirmed as Secretary of Interior. A CD 1 special election is set for June 1. The GOP field grows and the State central committees of both parties will soon be meeting to discuss the respective candidates.
And in a special segment, Paul visits with Grace Philips of the New Mexico Association of Counties about the impact House Bill 4, NM Civil Rights Act, will have on counties in New Mexico.
On this week's interview, Paul talks to Bruce Bunker about the science of climate change. Bunker is a chemist who studied the issue at Sandia National Labs. His professional work led him to write the book "The Mythology of Global Warming: Climate Change Fiction vs. Scientific Facts." Bunker takes a scientific approach to the issue of man-cause climate change and the idea that it will have serious, negative repercussions for the planet or for humanity.
The RGF's expertise is not "science." We don't research or comment on the science of topics like climate change, but Bunker IS an expert and this is an important and timely interview given all the policy decisions being made in New Mexico and Washington on the assumption that climate change is an existential crisis.
