New Mexico First will hold a lecture on finding common ground in politics on Wednesday in Albuquerque.
“Is bipartisanship a thing of the past? Speakers at the First Forum will talk from the national perspective about the condition of our democracy, cross-party collaboration, and strategies for bringing Americans together without watering down our beliefs,” the organization’s Web site states.
Keynote speakers are Mike McCurry, the former press secretary for President Bill Clinton, and Frank Fahrenkopf, former chair of the Republican National Committee. According to a news release, the speakers will also offer first-hand insight on when bi-partisanship works and when it doesn’t.
The event will be held from 6-8:30 p.m. on Wednesday at the National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th Street SW in Albuquerque.
The event will be moderated by ABC newsman and New Mexico rancher Sam Donaldson, who will also present awards to lawmakers New Mexico First believes have proven their ability to put good policy above partisan politics. The award recipients are:
Lifetime Achievement Awards
U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman
Retired U.S. Senator Pete Domenici
Odd Couple Award
Attorney and business leader Edward Lujan
Ambassador Edward Romero
Economic Development
State Rep. John Heaton (D)
State Rep. Tom Taylor (R)
Education
State Sen. Gay Kernan (R)
State Sen. Cynthia Nava (D)
Energy
State Sen. Sue Wilson Beffort (R)
State Sen. Michael Sanchez (D)
Health care
The late Patty Jennings (To be accepted by her husband, State Sen. Tim Jennings)
Tickets for the event are $35. To purchase tickets, or for more information, call (505) 241-4813 or e-mail kristak@nmfirst.org. You can also learn more by clicking here and register by clicking here.