Links to coverage of Wilson’s debate with Madrid

U.S. Rep. Heather Wilson, R-N.M., and her Democratic challenger Patricia Madrid, locked in one of the tightest congressional races in the nation, debated the issues on Sunday.

Conservative blogger Mario Burgos recorded the event and plans to put much of it online. Of course, what he’s put online thus far comes complete with his anti-Madrid commentary, but it’s worth checking out if you missed the debate.

You should also check out Joe Monahan’s analysis of the debate and coverage from the Albuquerque Journal.

Also, a weekend article in the Journal details another huge gift from Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino owner Stan Fulton that could become an issue for Madrid.

I reported months ago about the $125,000 Fulton gave to Madrid’s political action committee about the same time she formally opposed the proposal by the Jemez Pueblo and Santa Fe art dealer Gerald Peters to build a casino in Anthony. Around the same time, Madrid’s office also issued an advisory letter stating that the casino developers’ proposed services agreement with Doña Ana County was likely illegal.

Now, the Journal reports that Fulton gave $400,000 to New Mexico Highlands University for its football field. The field was dedicated to Madrid’s husband L. Michael Messina, a former regent at the school, after he secured the gift from Fulton, the Journal reported.

Madrid’s campaign told the Journal she and her husband have been friends with the casino owner since 2002, when they met during her second campaign for attorney general.

The gift to Highlands was made nine months before the Anthony proposal became public.

Here’s a great quote from Fulton, who was asked if he expected anything in return for the gift.

“Absolutely not, my goodness gracious,” he told the Journal. “I’m very upset at being criticized for what I believe is doing good. If you’re going to criticize me for giving money to this university, then I say shame on you.”

Madrid’s campaign pointed out that Fulton gave $1 million in 2001 to the Republican National Committee.