NMPolitics.net (https://nmpolitics.net/index/category/guest-columns/page/80/)
The land commissioner is probably one of the most important and powerful positions in state government today. Recent comments reflect the importance of returning transparency, accountability and proven leadership to the New Mexico State Land Office. Here are my reform proposals. Continue Reading
During last week’s gubernatorial debate, neither candidate presented a clear, coherent, cogent statement of position on a single topic for two minutes without drifting, repeatedly, to one or more of their talking points, whether germane or not to the question, or resorting, repeatedly, to one or more of their thrust-and-parry jabs. Continue Reading
We would like to respond to the New Mexico Petroleum Marketers Association’s attack on tribal gas tax agreements. There is no “loophole” as misleadingly stated by Mr. Baca. The tribes tax gas sold on reservations and use the revenue to serve the needs of their members. Continue Reading
A recent posting by Michael Swickard contained many inaccuracies and reflects an incomplete understanding of the elements involved in the effort to extend Sonoma Ranch Boulevard north from U.S. Highway 70 to two new public schools and the new Las Cruces Country Club golf course. Here is what has happened to date. Continue Reading
My thesis: Making high school optional can lead to improved public education at lower costs. Revisions to state law, with corresponding revisions in educational policy, can make a virtue of the reality of low graduation rates and ill-prepared graduates. Continue Reading
Developing a world-class education system will provide New Mexicans for generations to come the opportunity to compete and win at every level. This is why reforming education is one of my top priorities. Continue Reading
The proposed special assessment district to fund construction an extension of Sonoma Ranch Boulevard in Las Cruces has generated lots of conversation. But it’s a complicated process that takes time. It can still be done, but let’s do it correctly the first time. Continue Reading
Daily, reality reminds even the most optimistic among us: The sour New Mexico economy cannot turn around fast enough to avoid even more cuts to state services. Our challenge now is to work equally hard at minimizing the harm from those cuts and at maximizing our economy’s ability to recover. Continue Reading
There are very real differences between the approach I have laid out to turn New Mexico’s economy around and Diane Denish’s. At the end of the day, the differences between my vision and approach and Denish’s define the choice facing New Mexicans. Continue Reading
The Santa Fe Alliance has supported a petition to cap global warming emissions in New Mexico because we see that the long-term economic impact from environmental abuse is counterproductive; we believe that evidence of climate change validates the need to act protectively and proactively. Continue Reading
Electric consumers save somewhere between 75 percent and 87 percent when we invest in efficiency rather than building new electric plants. Energy efficiency should be an equal partner with renewable development in our policies, but currently gets short shrift. Continue Reading
“Corruption in New Mexico has reached the level of epidemic, and is in all forms of government.” Don’t take my word for it; take it from recently retired FBI Special Agent in Charge Tom McClenaghan, who concluded that our state might just be the most corrupt in the nation. It’s time for a change. Continue Reading
Creating jobs is hard work – and in this economy it will take an intense focus – every single day. And it will also take bold and innovative ideas. That’s why I propose a two-prong strategy for long-term job creation and the development of new industries. Continue Reading
We must restore integrity and trust in our government. That starts on day one of a Martinez Administration as real leadership with a record of fighting malfeasance and holding people to account will arrive in Santa Fe. Here’s my plan. Continue Reading
When interviewing the candidates for governor, I found both to be articulate and intelligent. I was divided on their answers to my questions. Right now, I am into watchful waiting to see which candidate handles herself best in addressing the issues and which campaign avoids attacking her opponent. Continue Reading