Johnny F. Luevano Jr.
As we enter a new decade, I am optimistic that we “common folks” can take back our state and finally put an end to the political corruption and cronyism that is engrained within our state. Of course this will not be an easy task, but I suggest making the following changes in order to reform the landscape of politics within New Mexico:
Ethics commission
The establishment of an independent ethics commission seems to be the prevailing answer, so I will go with it as well – although this doesn’t do much to change any rules and it is highly susceptible to political influence. In my opinion, I find it embarrassing that we are forced to establish a commission to slap the hands of public leaders. We all make mistakes, leaders take responsibility.
Limiting campaign contributions
We could argue all day about limiting the dollar amounts of political contributions, but the bottom line is to establish rules that prevent campaign contributors from lobbying or conducting any business with the receiving governmental entity of the candidate. This is the bread and butter of the back-scratching political class, so this would be major step in reducing the opportunity for corruption.
Capping exempt political appointees
Establish a cap on how many exempt employees the governor can appoint and require that all exempt employees fall under the same merit-based system of other state employees. This should also include basic qualifications for the position. The only difference should be the non-competitive hiring process.
Straight-party ballot option
Remove the option to vote for a straight-party ballot, either Democrat or Republican or a third party. I understand this is currently being considered, so hopefully the politicos don’t ambush this idea in fear of diminishing their reliable bases of support.
Independent party
Require that all non-political offices, including attorney general, state treasurer, state auditor, secretary of state, Public Regulation Commission members, land commissioner, district attorneys and sheriffs run as independents. I am not sure what party affiliation has to do with managing our finances or public safety, other than the usual political hobnobbing factor.
State auditor and treasurer constitutional amendment
Amend the New Mexico Constitution to require professional financial training and experience to qualify as a candidate for state auditor and treasurer. This is a perfect example a situation in which politicos will skirt around any responsible self-reflection in favor of political ambition and party dominance. FYI, management experience and “Office Space” people skills are not professional qualifications.
Contract database
The establishment of the new contract database is a great first start to something that could become a new, transparent government reporting mechanism. Ultimately, this should include attaching proof of invoices, paid receipts and pictures of the progress of the project for each contract awarded. This is not difficult – a simple Web-based database that allows access to the contract winning entity to update their individual contract. FYI, pictures of Manny hauling away re-appropriated construction materials in the back of his truck DO NOT count, but would be priceless nonetheless.
Government spending database
A fundamental rule of leadership is to lead by example, so I suggest that all government entities — that includes school districts — be required to self report the details of their spending on a Web-based database that is available to the public.
Government fraud awards
Establish monetary awards to be given to whistleblowers for exposing any case of government fraud that results in a conviction. I suggest a certain percentage of the amount of fraud that results in a conviction.
Annual audit compliance
I agree with the state auditor that we should establish rules and regulations that hold the appropriation of annual budgets to any government agency not in compliance with the annual audit regulations.
I am sure there are tons of other ideas on how to clean up our state, but this is a start. I challenge any politico who has the gumption to take up some of these ideas in pursuit of good government. Mr. Weh, I know you have the grit to git ‘r done. Anyone else?
Luévano, a registered independent, is a Marine Corps officer with 18 years of active-duty service and an Artesia native. He graduated from the University of New Mexico in 2001 with a bachelor’s in political science and economics and from the University of Kansas in 2008 with a master’s in public administration. The views expressed are those of the individual only and not those of the Department of Defense. You can reach him at jfluevano@gmail.com.
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