New Mexico’s record-low 19% trust in state government underscores the need for legislative ethics reform, argues Think New Mexico. Its proposed reforms would require conflict disclosures and recusals, strengthen financial and lobbying disclosures, impose a two-year cooling-off period, and expose dark-money funding. The recommendations gain urgency as voters consider paying legislators salaries.

New Mexico’s unpaid Legislature may benefit those with flexible careers, professional connections, or institutional backing while limiting who can afford to serve. As voters consider Constitutional Amendment 4, the debate also highlights lawmakers’ conflicts of interest, weak recusal rules, and the need for broader reforms, including stronger ethics standards and longer legislative sessions.

Dub married his high school sweetheart, Dewana Lou Berry, one week after her graduation in 1955.

It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Garrett Walter Romine, who was taken from us far too soon.  Although his time with us was brief, his impact on everyone who...