Opinion

With New Mexico facing severe challenges in crime, education, poverty, economic freedom and healthcare, El Rito Media compares gubernatorial candidates Deb Haaland and Gregg Hull. The editorial criticizes Haaland’s progressive policies and refusal to debate, while highlighting Hull’s record as Rio Rancho mayor and proposals for tax, regulatory, education and malpractice reform before endorsing him for governor.

The editorial board endorses Republican Martin Zamora for New Mexico’s 3rd Congressional District. A lifelong Clovis-area rancher, farmer and state representative since 2019, Zamora brings bipartisan experience and strong knowledge of agriculture, water and conservation. His priorities include compensating Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire victims, creating jobs and addressing housing and infrastructure needs tied to Los Alamos National Laboratory’s expansion.

Sen. Jeff Steinborn urges New Mexico’s State Investment Council to review and divest public funds tied to Russia and companies controlled by Elon Musk, citing Ukraine’s suffering and Starlink restrictions. A new Alex Gibney documentary, “Musk,” intensifies concerns about Musk’s business practices, political influence, data access and ability to affect warfare and foreign policy.

An opinion column examines New Mexico’s House Bill 99, arguing its medical malpractice reforms only “stopped the bleeding” while doctors remain at risk of leaving the state. It praises lawmakers who advanced the measure and scrutinizes House Democrats who sought to weaken or opposed it, urging voters to consider legislative records and healthcare access in the election.

Cal Thomas argues that, despite President Trump’s personality and controversies, Republicans should be leading ahead of the 2026 elections based on claimed gains in household income, poverty, border enforcement, crime reduction, tax policy, deregulation, and domestic manufacturing. He contends Democrats would hinder that progress, while urging Trump to campaign less around himself and more around these results.

Many New Mexico voters may know little about judges seeking retention in 2026, who run without opponents or campaign ads. The nonpartisan Judicial Performance Evaluation Commission surveys courtroom participants, reviews court data and interviews judges before issuing recommendations. This year, JPEC recommends retaining all 41 evaluated judges, including six serving the 5th Judicial District.

Cal Thomas argues that voters’ frustration with both parties stems from relying too heavily on government and neglecting personal initiative. Citing the Wright brothers, Carnegie, Ford, Tubman and others, he contends that motivation and independent action achieved what government could not. He suggests practical choices to manage rising costs, warning that changing party majorities will not change outcomes.

Despite abundant oil revenue, New Mexico’s economy remains stagnant, with slow job and wage growth. The state’s $75 billion sovereign wealth fund and projected surplus create an opportunity for bold change. This opinion piece endorses Gregg Hull’s proposal to eliminate the personal income tax, arguing it could improve affordability, attract residents, encourage entrepreneurship, and diversify jobs.

In a speech from Athens, Secretary of State Marco Rubio invoked ancient Greece’s influence on American democracy, the Founders, and Western political thought. Cal Thomas praises Rubio’s eloquence and statesmanship while lamenting the decline of classical education and historical knowledge in today’s universities. He argues Rubio’s competence, character, and service make him presidential material.

New Mexico’s medical malpractice reforms and healthcare compacts face renewed political threats, the author argues, as trial lawyers and their allies influence Democratic candidates and legislative committees. The piece highlights reform champions Rep. Marian Matthews and Rep. Nicole Chavez, criticizes Lisa Curtis and Deb Haaland, and urges voters to protect doctor access and keep public pressure on lawmakers.

An opinion essay argues that prominent American critics of Israel, including Hasan Piker, Ilhan Omar, and Zohran Mamdani, apply charges of genocide, apartheid, colonialism, and war crimes selectively. It contrasts their rhetoric with the histories of Turkey, Somalia, and Uganda, urging them to acknowledge abuses associated with their homelands before condemning Israel or America.

The release on bail of five terrorism suspects arrested near a British air base draws sharp criticism, amid concerns about security lapses, inadequate investigations and Britain’s handling of terror-linked individuals. The column cites past attacks in London and Manchester, questions whether authorities are taking threats seriously, and warns that releasing suspects could leave the government responsible for future violence.