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Michelle Lujan Grisham
27.8%
#48 of 50

Michelle Lujan Grisham

New Mexico D | 2nd term
2019-01-01Took Office 7 yrs, 5 moIn Office 263Metrics Scored 460 / 1653Total Points

Section A: Governance

219/300
73%

Section B: State Outcomes

318/975
33%

Section C: Oath Fidelity

-77 (-378 to +378)

Section A — Governance 219/300

9 subsections evaluating executive performance: budget execution, legislative relations, appointments, emergency management, transparency, ethics, program management, federal relations, and constituent service.

On-time budget submission
Budgets submitted on time each year. NM uses annual budget cycle with 30-day sessions in even years and 60-day sessions in odd years. FY26 executive budget recommendation released Dec 2024 proposing $10.5B spending plan, a 9.9% increase over FY25.
NM Governor's Office Budget Records; NM Constitution Art. IV; KRWG Dec 2024
2
Budget accuracy — revenue forecast vs actual
Oil/gas boom produced massive surpluses — $3.5B surplus projected FY25 (36% over obligations). General fund income reached ~$13B for FY25. Revenue consistently exceeded forecasts due to Permian Basin production boom. Risk: extreme oil price dependence creates volatility.
NM Legislative Finance Committee; Fortune Aug 2023; NM Taxation and Revenue Department
2
Rainy day fund management
Signed SB 26 (2023) redirecting excess oil/gas revenue to Severance Tax Permanent Fund — projected to grow from $8.2B (2024) to $30B by 2035. Deposits: $587M in FY25, $1.2B in FY26, $1.6B in FY27. Earns projected 5.7% avg return. Landmark savings policy but driven by oil windfall not fiscal discipline.
NM DFA; Governor's Office SB 26 announcement Mar 2023; NM State Investment Council
2
State credit rating trajectory
Moody's upgraded NM from Aa2 to Aa1 (Jan 2026) — first upgrade since early 1990s. Cited 'well-established and prudent governance practices' and reduced reliance on volatile severance taxes. Among nation's highest bond ratings. Lower borrowing costs for infrastructure. Upgrade driven largely by oil revenue and SB 26 savings framework.
Moody's Ratings Jan 2026; NM DFA; ABQ Journal; Bond Buyer
2
Pension funding ratio trajectory
PERA funded ratio ~67.7% (2024), projected fully funded in 53 years. ERB funding period reduced to 26 years. NM overall funded ratio 66% in 2023 — below 50-state average of 74%. Pension reform legislation passed 2020. Improvement from prior years but still significantly underfunded relative to national peers.
NM PERA Actuarial Reports; NM ERB Actuarial Reports; NASRA state data; publicplansdata.org
2
Debt per capita trajectory
Legislature forgoed severance tax bond issuance in FY24 — oil revenue reduced need for bonding. Severance tax collections ~$1.9B in FY25. $1.25B in nonrecurring infrastructure spending (2024 GAA) funded from cash, not debt. Debt per capita moderate (~$3,200 per capita in 2015 baseline); oil windfall has reduced borrowing pressure.
NM DFA; NM State Treasurer Debt Reports; NM LFC Post-Session Review 2024
2
CAFR/ACFR published on time
FY24 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) published by NM DFA within statutory deadlines. State Auditor oversees 530+ full financial audits and 96 agreed-upon-procedures annually across state entities. Reports publicly available on DFA website.
NM DFA FY24 ACFR; NM Office of the State Auditor FY23 Findings Report
2
Audit findings — material weaknesses
State Auditor identified CYFD misused $4.2M (~38%) of a behavioral health appropriation. FY23 Findings Report covered 530 audits with recurring material weaknesses across agencies. Santa Fe FY23 audit had 13 findings (7 material weaknesses). NM historically has higher-than-average audit findings among states.
NM Office of the State Auditor FY23 Findings Report; Santa Fe Sentinel Dec 2024; CYFD audit 2025
1
Federal grant fund accounting
NM receives among highest federal spending per capita nationally due to LANL, Sandia, military bases (Kirtland, Cannon, Holloman, WSMR), and IHS. Federal grant compliance standard. IIJA provides $3.2B in road/highway/bridge funding 2022-2026 (38% increase). Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon claims office administering $5.45B federal fire compensation.
NM DFA Federal Grants Records; USASpending.gov; FEMA Hermits Peak Claims Office
3
Anti-fraud controls — federal programs
Standard anti-fraud controls maintained. Pandemic-era UI fraud present but not at catastrophic levels seen in some states. State Auditor identified CYFD misuse of $4.2M behavioral health funds but this was operational misallocation, not fraud. DWS participating in Open UI Initiative for system modernization.
NM State Auditor; DOL State Reviews; NM DWS Open UI Initiative
3
Tax revenue vs expenditure alignment
Budget grew from ~$6.4B (FY19) to $10.8B (FY26) — 69% increase in 7 years. Oil/gas revenue kept pace creating surpluses. But: recurring K-12 spending up 34.7%, teacher pay up 38%, universal pre-K/child care launched. Risk: if oil revenue drops, structural spending increases may be unsustainable. SB 26 savings buffer helps but does not eliminate risk.
NM Legislative Finance Committee; NM Taxation and Revenue; KUNM Feb 2025
2
Capital budget execution rate
2024 GAA authorized $1.25B in nonrecurring capital for infrastructure, roads, rural hospitals, and one-time costs. NMDOT awarded $52M to local governments for FY25 projects. La Bajada Hill I-25 project completed ($40M). Legislature forgoed severance tax bonds in FY24 — cash-funded capital instead. $6.6B in unfunded NMDOT projects remain.
NM DFA Capital Budget Reports; NM LFC 2024 Post-Session Review; NMDOT Nov 2024
2
Vendor/contractor oversight
Standard procurement oversight through NM General Services Department. Netflix film partner agreement includes uncapped tax credit access (25-35% on eligible expenditures). Film tax credit cap increased to $130M for FY25, growing to $160M by FY29. No major procurement scandals during tenure.
NM General Services Department; NM Film Office; Entertainment Partners
3
Federal funding maximization
NM among highest federal spending per capita nationally. LANL FY26 NDAA: $1.79B authorized. Sandia: record $5.2B economic impact (2025), ~16,000 employees. IIJA: $3.2B in road/bridge funding 2022-2026. Hermits Peak fire: $5.45B federal compensation secured ($1.97B paid by Mar 2025). Kirtland AFB: $83M Space RCO HQ in FY26 NDAA.
USASpending.gov; Sandia News Jan 2026; FEMA Hermits Peak Claims; Sen. Heinrich FY26 NDAA
2
Program eligibility verification systems
Standard eligibility verification through NM Health Care Authority (formerly HSD). Medicaid (Centennial Care 2.0): 823,720 enrollees (2023). Post-PHE unwinding: 120,174 disenrolled by Oct 2023, vast majority (all but 4,545) for procedural reasons — indicating verification system gaps. No major fraud findings.
NM HCA Program Integrity Reports; CMS Medicaid data; healthinsurance.org
3
Signature legislation enacted
Major legislation: NM Opportunity Scholarship (free college — 42,379 recipients by spring 2024, 4% enrollment increase); Cannabis legalization (2021 — $1B+ cumulative sales, $50M+ tax revenue in 2024); Energy Transition Act (2019 — 50% renewable by 2030, 100% carbon-free by 2045); ERFPO/red flag law (2020, expanded 2025); ECECD cabinet dept created (2020); universal child care (first state, signed Mar 2026); $959M college trust fund. SB 26 oil revenue savings.
NM Legislature; NM HED; Governor's Office; NM Cannabis Control Division
2
Veto override rate
No vetoes overridden during tenure. D-controlled legislature generally aligned on priorities. 2026 final session: vetoed only 3 bills, including pocket veto. Used line-item vetoes on appropriations. Legislative supermajority aligned with governor's agenda reduces override risk.
NM Legislature Journal; Governor's Veto Records; Taos News Mar 2026
3
Bipartisan bills signed
Most major legislation passed on party-line votes. Gun control, cannabis, abortion expansion deeply partisan. Some bipartisan support: Tribal Education Trust Fund passed House 68-0 (2024). Teacher salary increases had bipartisan support (HB 156 passed 62-1 in 2025). Red flag expansion passed 41-27. Tax rebates ($1,500 in 2022) had broad support. But signature agenda items largely partisan.
NM Legislature Vote Records; Source NM; NM Political Report
1
Special sessions called
SEVEN special sessions during tenure (most by any NM governor in modern era): redistricting (Dec 2021), tax rebates/economic relief (2022 — $1,500 to 1.1M+ New Mexicans), July 2024 session, Oct 2025 session to address federal funding cuts, and others. Frequency reflects both short regular sessions (30/60 days) and ambitious agenda, but 7 is excessive.
NM Legislature Special Session Records; Governor's Office; NM In Depth
1
Executive orders — legal challenges
UNCONSTITUTIONAL GUN CARRY SUSPENSION. On September 8, 2023, issued emergency executive order suspending open and concealed carry of firearms in Albuquerque for 30 days. IMMEDIATELY enjoined by federal court. Judge David Urias issued TRO blocking the order. Drew BIPARTISAN condemnation — even Democratic Bernalillo County Sheriff refused to enforce it, calling it 'unconstitutional.' AG Raul Torrez (also Democrat) said he would not defend it. One of the most clearly unconstitutional executive orders issued by any governor in recent memory.
Temporary Restraining Order — US District Court NM, Sept 13, 2023; Sheriff John Allen public statement; AG Raul Torrez public statement
0
Line-item veto usage
Standard line-item veto usage on appropriations bills. NM Constitution Art. IV grants governor line-item veto on appropriations. 2026 final session: vetoed only 3 bills total including pocket veto of lower-carbon construction materials incentive bill (lauded concept but vetoed for implementation concerns). Used line-item vetoes judiciously.
NM Constitution Art. IV; Governor's Budget Actions; Source NM Mar 2026
3
Regulatory burden change
Major regulatory expansion: Energy Transition Act mandates (50% renewable by 2030, 100% carbon-free by 2045); methane regulations on oil/gas industry; cannabis regulation framework (CCD licensing, 12% excise tax rising 1%/yr to 18% by 2030); red flag gun law (ERFPO 2020, expanded 2025); cybersecurity EO 2024-011 mandating NIST compliance by Nov 2024. Significant cumulative business burden.
NM Administrative Code; NM Environment Department; NM Cannabis Control Division; EO 2024-011
1
Budget negotiation success
Budgets enacted each year with D-controlled legislature. Budget grew from ~$6.4B (FY19) to record $10.8B (FY26). Oil revenue windfall eliminated hard tradeoffs — $3.5B+ surplus made negotiations easier. Some tension: LFC proposed 5.9% increase vs governor's 9.9% for FY25. Governor's inner circle received $11,500-$32,900 raises while state employees got 3-4%, drawing criticism.
NM Legislature Budget Records; NM LFC; The CANDLE Publishing; KUNM
2
Bill signing rate on popular legislation
Signed broadly popular measures: Opportunity Scholarship (free college — 42,379 recipients); cannabis legalization ($1B+ industry); $1,500 tax rebates (1.1M+ recipients, 2022); teacher pay raises ($50K/$60K/$70K minimums, later $55K/$65K/$75K). Also signed controversial red flag law expansion, 287(g) ban, and abortion protections that divided electorate.
NM Legislature Records; NM HED; NM PED
2
Legislative relationship
Functional with D-controlled legislature. Enacted massive agenda: free college, cannabis, universal child care, energy transition, gun control. Some tensions: LFC proposed slimmer budget increases than governor; Tribal Education Trust Fund pulled from Senate after amendment disputes (2024). 7 special sessions reflect both NM's short session structure and governor's assertive agenda-setting. 2026 final session productive — 50+ new laws signed.
NM Legislature Records; NM Political Report Mar 2026
2
Implementation of voter-approved measures
Standard implementation of ballot measures. NM uses constitutional amendments requiring voter approval for bond authorizations and constitutional changes. 2022 constitutional amendment for Early Childhood Education Trust Fund passed with voter approval and implemented. Redistricting completed via special session (Dec 2021) after 2020 Census.
NM Secretary of State; NM Legislature Special Session Dec 2021
3
Task force follow-through
Crime reduction efforts failed: NM violent crime 717/100K (2024) — 99.7% above national avg. Declared gun violence public health emergency (Sep 2023) but unconstitutional gun carry ban struck down immediately. Deployed National Guard to Albuquerque crime emergency (Apr 2025) — unprecedented step reflecting prior task force failures. 25% of defendants responsible for ~50% of felonies (LFC 2024). Gun violence dashboard created but outcomes unchanged.
FBI UCR; NM DPS; NM LFC Policy Spotlight Jul 2024; NBC News Apr 2025
1
Policy reversals under pressure
Gun carry suspension (Sep 8, 2023) blocked by TRO from Judge Urias within days — forced reversal. DA Bregman, Mayor Keller, Police Chief Medina, and Sheriff Allen all refused to enforce. Governor issued amended versions that were also challenged. Despite bipartisan condemnation from her own party's AG Torrez and Bernalillo County Sheriff, continued defending the order. Pattern of pushing then retreating.
US District Court NM TRO Sep 2023; Governor's Amended EO; PBS; CNN; CBS News
1
Appointee criminal/ethics issues
No major criminal charges against cabinet appointees during tenure. Created new cabinet-level Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD) in 2020 — among first states to consolidate early childhood programs under single agency. State Ethics Commission maintained oversight of appointees without major findings.
NM State Ethics Commission; Court Records; Governor's Office ECECD announcement
3
Agency head vacancy rate
Cabinet positions generally filled throughout tenure. Created new ECECD cabinet agency (2020) and staffed it. Some turnover: CYFD secretary position saw changes amid child welfare challenges and Kevin S. consent decree pressure. HSD restructured into Health Care Authority. NM has 26 cabinet agencies — largest in state history with ECECD addition.
Governor's Office Appointment Records; NM ECECD; NM HCA
2
State employee turnover
Standard turnover rates. NM competes with LANL (~16,000 employees), Sandia (~16,000 employees), and military installations for talent in a small labor market (~2.1M population). State employee pay raised 3-4% annually. State police received 14% raise; corrections/probation 8% raise (FY25 budget). MDC jail 64% staffed (264 of 411 corrections officers) reflecting broader corrections staffing crisis.
NM SPO HR Reports; BLS OES NM; Santa Fe New Mexican Jan 2024
3
Diversity of appointments
Highly diverse appointments reflecting NM demographics (49% Hispanic, 11% Native American). First Latina governor of NM (also former NM Health Secretary and congresswoman). Expanded tribal pre-K partnerships — 554 new slots with Navajo Nation, Mescalero Apache, Pueblo of Nambe. Cabinet reflects state's multicultural demographics. ECECD serves majority-Hispanic, Pell-eligible students.
Governor's Office Records; NM ECECD tribal partnership Jul 2023
3
Judicial appointment quality
Judicial appointments made through NM Judicial Nominating Commission — merit-based selection process. NM uses partisan elections for retention but gubernatorial appointments fill vacancies. Standard quality. No major controversies over judicial appointments. Criminal justice system faces challenges: 25% of defendants responsible for ~50% of felonies (LFC 2024), suggesting systemic issues beyond appointment quality.
NM Judicial Nominating Commission; NM LFC Policy Spotlight Jul 2024
2
State workforce pay competitiveness
State employees received 3-4% annual raises. State police: 14% raise. Corrections/probation: 8% raise. Teachers: minimum salary tiers raised to $55K/$65K/$75K (2025) — up from $36K/$44K/$54K when took office. Controversy: governor gave her inner circle $11,500-$32,900 raises ahead of July 2025 to circumvent 4% cap for regular employees. State still struggles to compete with federal labs (~$2.95B Sandia payroll alone).
NM SPO Compensation Data; The CANDLE Publishing; Roundhouse Movidas; NM PED
2
Whistleblower protection
No documented whistleblower retaliation during tenure. NM Whistleblower Protection Act provides employee protections. State Auditor operates independently — identified CYFD $4.2M misuse without obstruction. No reports of governor's office interfering with auditor or IG investigations.
NM State Personnel Office; NM Whistleblower Protection Act; NM State Auditor
3
Inspector General independence
State Auditor (elected, independent) operating without interference. Conducts 530+ financial audits annually. Published critical findings on CYFD fund misuse without obstruction. NM does not have a separate Inspector General office — State Auditor fills that role. AG Torrez (also Democrat) demonstrated independence by publicly opposing governor's gun carry suspension.
NM State Auditor Records; NM AG Office
2
State employee morale
No major morale crises reported. Pay raises (3-4% annually) and targeted increases for police/corrections helped retention. However, MDC corrections staffing at 64% capacity suggests sector-specific morale issues. Governor ordered 12-week paid parental leave for state employees (Dec 2019) — first in NM history. CYFD child welfare workers face high caseloads under Kevin S. consent decree compliance pressure.
NM SPO Employee Data; Governor's EO Dec 2019; CYFD Kevin S. co-neutrals report
3
Nepotism/cronyism
No documented nepotism in state hiring. However, controversy over governor giving ~20 inner circle staff $11,500-$32,900 raises ahead of FY26 to circumvent the 4% cap applying to all other state employees. While not technically nepotism, the preferential treatment of close aides drew criticism. No family members in state positions.
NM State Ethics Commission; The CANDLE Publishing; Roundhouse Movidas Mar 2024
3
Senior staff criminal charges
No senior staff or cabinet members charged with crimes during tenure. Campaign staffer James Hallinan's sexual harassment/assault allegations against the governor (pre-inauguration, during 2018 campaign) resulted in $150K settlement but no criminal charges filed by either party. Senior advisor Dominic Gabello named in Hallinan allegations but denied involvement; no charges.
Court Records; Settlement Documents; NBC News Apr 2021
3
Agency performance accountability
Crime: NM violent crime 717/100K (99.7% above national avg) — no improvement despite increased spending and National Guard deployment (Apr 2025). Education: NAEP dead last in ALL 4 categories for 9th consecutive year despite K-12 spending up 34.7% ($4.76B in FY25, +$580M over FY24). CYFD: Kevin S. consent decree — co-neutrals reported 'state of chaos,' children sleeping in offices. Massive spending increases without outcome improvements.
NM DPS Crime Statistics; NAEP 2024; CYFD Kevin S. co-neutrals report; NM Education
1
Disaster declaration timeliness
Timely declarations for multiple disasters: COVID emergency (Mar 11, 2020 — same day as first positive case); Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon wildfire (2022 — largest in NM history, 341,471 acres); South Fork/Salt Fires (Jun 2024 — Lincoln County/Mescalero Apache Reservation, 500+ structures). Gun violence public health emergency (Sep 2023) controversial — used as basis for unconstitutional gun carry ban.
NM DHSEM; Governor's Office emergency declarations; PBS; KRQE
2
FEMA Public Assistance secured
Secured historic federal assistance: Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act — $5.45B total federal compensation ($2.5B initial + $1.45B supplemental + $1.5B Dec 2024 bipartisan bill). $1.97B paid to fire victims by Mar 2025. Fire caused by USFS prescribed burn — federal liability. Governor successfully advocated for federal responsibility. Additional FEMA PA for South Fork/Salt fires (2024) and flooding events.
FEMA Hermits Peak Claims Office; Federal Register; Source NM Dec 2024
2
Emergency reserve adequacy
Reserves substantially bolstered by oil revenue. Severance Tax Permanent Fund: $8.2B (2024), projected $30B by 2035 under SB 26 framework. Tax Stabilization Reserve maintained at healthy levels. $3.5B surplus (FY25) provides ample emergency cushion. Multiple reserve funds (operating reserve, tobacco settlement, early childhood trust) provide layered protection. Risk: reserves depend on oil prices.
NM DFA; NM State Treasurer; NM State Investment Council
2
Lives lost — preventable from state failure
NM has among highest violent crime and gun death rates in nation. Governor declared gun violence emergency but policy response (unconstitutional gun carry ban) was struck down. Children killed in shootings cited as basis for emergency order. State failure to address root causes of violence contributes to ongoing deaths.
CDC WONDER — NM Gun Death Data; FBI UCR; NM OMI Death Records
1
Post-disaster recovery
Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon recovery: 903 structures destroyed, $5.14B total losses assessed (Dec 2024 report). FEMA Claims Office paid $1.97B by Mar 2025 but process plagued by delays — 7 lawsuits settled, allegations of claimant pressure. FEMA administrative costs: $377M. South Fork/Salt fires (Jun 2024): Ruidoso area recovery ongoing. Recovery proceeding but pace criticized by victims and advocates.
FEMA PA Records; Source NM Mar 2025; Source NM Dec 2024
2
Public health emergency response
COVID: Declared emergency Mar 11, 2020 (same day as first case). Among strictest lockdowns nationally — closed schools, businesses, mask mandate (May 16, 2020). NM ranked 14th in COVID deaths per capita despite having toughest restrictions. Presbyterian Health estimated 18,900 would have died without interventions vs ~4,000 actual in first year. Johns Hopkins study found lockdowns had 'no effect' on mortality. Drug overdose crisis ongoing — NM among highest fentanyl death rates.
NM DOH; CDC COVID Data Tracker; Scientific American; KRQE Fact Check; ABQ Journal
2
Infrastructure failure prevention
No major infrastructure failures during tenure. 5% of NM bridges (182 of 4,035) rated poor/structurally deficient; 47% built before 1970. IIJA providing $3.2B in road/bridge funding 2022-2026 (38% increase). $1.25B nonrecurring infrastructure spending in 2024 GAA. NMDOT completed La Bajada Hill I-25 project ($40M). Water infrastructure aging but no failures.
NM DOT; TRIP Report Jan 2025; ASCE NM Infrastructure Report Card; FHWA NM Division
3
National Guard deployment appropriateness
Guard deployed for wildfires (Hermits Peak 2022, South Fork/Salt fires Jun 2024) — appropriate. Deployed to Albuquerque crime emergency (Apr 2025) — unprecedented step to support APD amid NM's highest-in-nation violent crime rate. Refused National Guard deployment for federal mass deportation operations (Jan 2025). Border deployments limited compared to TX/AZ. Use generally appropriate but crime deployment reflects governance failure.
NM National Guard Records; NBC News Apr 2025; Newsweek Jan 2025; PBS
2
Emergency communication
Active emergency communication during COVID (regular press briefings with Dr. David Scrase), wildfires (evacuation orders for Ruidoso Jun 2024), and crime emergency. Former NM Health Secretary background aided health crisis communication. Gun violence emergency declaration (Sep 2023) effectively communicated but the unconstitutional policy response overshadowed the messaging. Standard AlertNM and DHSEM notification systems maintained.
NM DHSEM; Governor's Office press briefings; KRQE; PBS
3
Interagency coordination
Effective interagency coordination during major disasters: Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon (DHSEM, National Guard, FEMA, USFS coordination for 341,471-acre fire); South Fork/Salt fires (Lincoln County, Mescalero Apache, state agencies); COVID (DOH, DHSEM, National Guard testing/vaccination sites). Created ECECD as new cabinet agency consolidating early childhood programs from multiple agencies. Crime emergency required APD-State Police-National Guard coordination.
NM DHSEM After-Action Reports; Governor's Office emergency coordination records
3
Pandemic response metrics
NM had nation's strictest restrictions: first governor to close schools (Mar 13, 2020), statewide mask mandate, business closures. Ranked 14th in COVID deaths per capita — worse than national median despite strictest measures. Johns Hopkins meta-analysis found lockdowns had no measurable mortality effect. Presbyterian estimated 18,900 deaths averted in first year. Small, rural, Native American population (hardest-hit demographics) complicates comparison. Vaccination rates above national average.
CDC COVID Data Tracker — NM; Scientific American; KRQE Fact Check; Johns Hopkins Jan 2022
2
Disaster preparedness & emergency infrastructure
NM faces severe wildfire, drought, and flood risks. Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon (2022): largest wildfire in NM history — 341,471 acres, 903 structures destroyed, $5.14B total losses. Caused by USFS prescribed burn, not state failure. South Fork/Salt fires (Jun 2024): 500+ structures in Ruidoso area. $5.45B federal compensation secured. Wildfire mitigation investments ongoing. Emergency management functioning but climate risks escalating.
NM DHSEM; FEMA Hermits Peak Claims; Source NM Dec 2024
2
FOIA/open records compliance
Standard compliance with NM Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA). NM IPRA provides broad public access to government records with 15-day response requirement. Governor's office has responded to IPRA requests. No major IPRA lawsuits against governor's office documented. AG provides IPRA enforcement guidance.
NM AG IPRA Records; NM IPRA Statute §14-2-1 et seq.
3
Governor's schedule availability
Schedule generally available through governor's office. Regular COVID press briefings (2020-2022) with DOH Secretary Dr. Scrase. Public appearances at bill signings, emergency declarations, and special sessions. 7 special sessions provided extensive public legislative engagement. Some criticism of limited press access during gun carry controversy.
Governor's Office Website; NM media reports
2
Campaign finance compliance
Campaign finance fines and issues documented. Campaign used funds to pay $150,000 sexual harassment/assault settlement to former staffer James Hallinan — while legally permissible, using campaign funds for personal misconduct settlement raises transparency concerns.
NM Secretary of State Campaign Finance Records; NM Ethics Administration
1
Financial disclosure
Financial disclosures filed as required by NM State Ethics Commission. Former congresswoman (NM-1, 2013-2019) — federal financial disclosures also filed during congressional tenure. Previously served as NM Health Secretary (2004-2007). No major financial disclosure controversies beyond campaign fund use for sexual harassment settlement.
NM State Ethics Commission Financial Disclosures; House Clerk Financial Disclosures
2
Open meetings compliance
No major Open Meetings Act violations documented during tenure. NM Open Meetings Act (§10-15-1 et seq.) enforced by AG. 7 special legislative sessions all conducted under open meetings requirements. COVID emergency orders temporarily modified public meeting procedures (allowed virtual) but complied with amended requirements.
NM AG Open Meetings Decisions; NM Open Meetings Act
3
Open data portal
NM data portal maintained at data.nm.gov. COVID data dashboard operated during pandemic. NM Vistas education data portal provides NAEP scores, student achievement indicators, and school performance data. DoIT cybersecurity EO (2024-011) mandated NIST compliance tracking. Cannabis revenue data published. Budget and financial data available through DFA and LFC websites.
NM data portal (data.nm.gov); NM Vistas; NM DoIT; NM DFA
2
Budget transparency
Executive budget recommendations published annually (FY26: $10.5B proposal released Dec 2024). LFC publishes competing analysis, post-session fiscal reviews, and program evaluation reports. Budget grew from ~$6.4B to $10.8B during tenure — 69% increase tracked publicly. Revenue consensus estimates published biannually. $1.25B capital appropriations detailed. Budget documents accessible through DFA and LFC websites.
NM DFA; NM Legislative Finance Committee; Governor's FY26 Budget Recommendation Dec 2024
2
Lobbying disclosure
Standard lobbying disclosure through NM Secretary of State. Lobbyist registration and reporting requirements maintained. NM Lobbyist Regulation Act enforced. No major lobbying disclosure scandals. Oil/gas industry lobbying significant given NM's revenue dependence but disclosure mechanisms functioning. Film industry partner agreements (Netflix, NBCUniversal) publicly documented.
NM Secretary of State Lobbying Records; NM Lobbyist Regulation Act
3
IG report publication
State Auditor reports published on osa.nm.gov — searchable database of all audit reports. FY23 Findings Report covered 530 full financial audits. Critical CYFD audit published showing $4.2M misuse of behavioral health appropriation. State Auditor (elected, independent) publishes findings without obstruction from governor's office. Reports accessible through NM Office of the State Auditor website.
NM State Auditor Website (osa.nm.gov); reports.saonm.org
2
Legislative audit cooperation
Standard cooperation with LFC program evaluations. LFC publishes detailed program evaluations (24+ per year) including critical assessments: CYFD child welfare (Kevin S. compliance), Bernalillo County criminal justice (Jul 2024), corrections reentry. Executive agencies provide data for LFC analyses. No documented obstruction of legislative oversight.
NM Legislative Finance Committee Program Evaluation Reports
3
Press conference accessibility
Regular press conferences during COVID (with Dr. Scrase), emergency declarations, and legislative sessions. Former congresswoman experienced with media. Approval rating tracked extensively by KRQE, ABQ Journal, NM Political Report. Some criticism of limited press engagement after gun carry controversy — defended order despite bipartisan condemnation. Generally accessible but selective on difficult topics.
Governor's Office Media Schedule; NM media coverage
2
State contract transparency
Procurement transparency through NM General Services Department. State contracts publicly posted. Netflix/NBCUniversal film partner agreements publicly documented (uncapped 25-35% tax credits). Housing New Mexico: $737M in FY24 programs publicly reported. $1.25B capital appropriations tracked through DFA. No major procurement scandals during tenure.
NM General Services Department; Housing NM FY24 Report; NM Film Office
3
Court order compliance
Modified gun carry ban after court TRO but continued to defend unconstitutional order and issued amended versions that were also challenged. Pattern of pushing legal boundaries.
Court Records; US District Court NM
1
Personal criminal charges
No criminal charges filed against Lujan Grisham. Sexual harassment/assault allegations by campaign staffer James Hallinan (Dec 2019 complaint, alleged 2018 incident) resolved through $150,000 civil settlement — no criminal prosecution pursued by either party. Former congresswoman (NM-1, 2013-2019) and NM Health Secretary (2004-2007) with no criminal history.
Court Records; DOJ; Settlement Documents; NBC News Apr 2021
3
Ethics complaints — substantiated
No formally substantiated ethics complaints by NM State Ethics Commission. Hallinan sexual harassment matter handled through private settlement, not ethics adjudication. Inner circle staff raises ($11,500-$32,900 ahead of 4% cap) drew public criticism but not formal ethics complaints. Ethics Commission maintained and funded during tenure.
NM State Ethics Commission; The CANDLE Publishing
3
Gift/travel disclosure
Gift/travel disclosures filed with NM State Ethics Commission as required. No major gift scandals. Governor's salary: $110,000 (NM Constitution). Travel for COVID response, wildfire emergencies, special sessions, and legislative business documented. No reports of unreported gifts or travel from lobbyists or special interests.
NM State Ethics Commission; Governor's Office
2
Conflict of interest
No documented conflicts of interest. Campaign fund use for $150K sexual harassment settlement was legally permissible under NM law but raised appearance concerns. No business interests creating conflicts with gubernatorial duties. Oil/gas industry generates ~40% of state revenue but no personal financial ties documented. Film industry tax credit expansion benefits state broadly.
NM State Ethics Commission; NM SOS Campaign Finance Records
3
State resources for political purposes
No documented misuse of state resources for political purposes. Gun carry suspension (Sep 2023) used emergency powers for policy goals but was a governance action, not political campaign misuse. National Guard crime deployment (Apr 2025) was operational, not political. No allegations of using state staff or resources for campaign activities.
NM State Ethics Commission; Governor's Office
3
Truthfulness in official statements
Defended gun carry suspension as constitutional even after court immediately blocked it. Continued to defend the order despite bipartisan condemnation including from her own party's AG and sheriff. Mischaracterized the legal basis for the order.
Governor's Public Statements; Court TRO Findings; AG/Sheriff statements
1
Protection of ethics infrastructure
NM State Ethics Commission maintained and funded. Independent State Auditor (elected) conducts 530+ audits annually without interference. AG Torrez operated independently — publicly opposed gun carry suspension despite being same party. Created NM-specific ethics training requirements. Ethics infrastructure functional but NM has no standalone Inspector General office.
NM State Ethics Commission Budget; NM State Auditor; AG Torrez statements Sep 2023
2
Emoluments/self-dealing
No documented self-dealing or emoluments violations. Governor's salary fixed at $110,000 by NM Constitution. No personal business interests creating self-dealing concerns. Inner circle staff raises ($11,500-$32,900) benefited close aides but not the governor personally. No real estate, business, or investment conflicts documented.
NM State Ethics Commission Financial Disclosures; NM Constitution
3
Campaign donor to state contract pipeline
No documented campaign donor to state contract pipeline. NM General Services Department handles procurement under standard competitive bidding requirements. Film industry partnerships (Netflix, NBCUniversal) are statutory incentive programs, not discretionary contracts. $737M Housing NM programs distributed through standard channels. No pay-to-play allegations documented.
NM Secretary of State; GSD Procurement Records; Housing NM
3
Foreign influence
No foreign influence concerns. NM shares border with Mexico — Lujan Grisham has maintained cooperative relationship with Mexican state officials on border issues but no improper foreign influence. National labs (LANL, Sandia) handle classified programs with federal security oversight — no state-level foreign influence issues. No FARA registrations associated with governor's office.
DOJ FARA Database; NM Governor's Office
3
Sexual harassment claims
Former campaign staffer James Hallinan alleged Lujan Grisham dropped water in his lap and grabbed his crotch during a 2018 campaign meeting. Campaign paid $150,000 in settlement — initially disclosed only $62,500 until investigation revealed total was double. Campaign denied allegations but paid substantial settlement. Settlement paid through campaign funds in monthly installments to obscure total amount.
Settlement Documents; NJ Secretary of State Campaign Finance Records; NBC News; CNN; Fox News investigations
0
Records preservation
No documented records destruction during tenure. NM State Records Center and Archives maintains retention schedules. Governor's office records subject to IPRA and preservation requirements. Campaign finance records for $150K Hallinan settlement were eventually disclosed (initially only $62,500 reported, full amount revealed through investigative reporting) — records existed but disclosure was incomplete/delayed.
NM State Records Center and Archives; NM SOS Campaign Finance Records; Fox News investigation
3
Revolving door
No major revolving door concerns documented. Lujan Grisham herself went from Congress to governor (public-to-public). Previously NM Health Secretary (2004-2007). Term-limited in 2026. NM has standard post-employment restrictions for state officials. No notable staff departures to industries they regulated while in state government.
NM State Ethics Commission; Governor's biographical records
3
Fraud losses in state programs
No major fraud losses beyond standard pandemic-era UI issues. State Auditor identified CYFD misallocation of $4.2M behavioral health funds (38% of appropriation) — classified as misuse rather than fraud. Cannabis industry regulation through CCD with licensing controls. Medicaid (823,720 enrollees) managed through Centennial Care 2.0 MCO structure with standard program integrity.
NM State Auditor; NM HCA Program Integrity; NM Cannabis Control Division
3
Program integrity — eligibility verification
Standard program integrity. Medicaid Centennial Care 2.0 operates through managed care organizations with eligibility verification. Post-PHE unwinding: 120,174 disenrolled (Oct 2023), mostly for procedural (not fraud) reasons. Opportunity Scholarship: open to all NM residents enrolled at public institutions. Universal child care: income-independent (no verification needed by design).
NM HCA Program Integrity Reports; CMS Medicaid reviews; NM HED
3
IT system modernization
Issued cybersecurity EO 2024-011 mandating NIST moderate-impact baselines for all state agencies (compliance by Nov 2024). DoIT conducting IT/security assessments across agencies. State/Local Cybersecurity Grant Program: ~$13M over 4 years. DWS participating in national Open UI Initiative for unemployment system modernization. NM data portal maintained. IT modernization proceeding at standard pace for small state.
NM DoIT; EO 2024-011; StateScoop Apr 2024; NM DWS
2
Permit processing timeliness
Oil/gas permits processed through NM Environment Department and Oil Conservation Division. Methane regulations added environmental review requirements. Cannabis licensing: 1,200+ licenses issued since legalization (2021). Film production permitting streamlined — $855M record spending in NM (2023). Business licensing through RLD standard. Environmental permit requirements expanded under Energy Transition Act.
NM Environment Department; NM RLD; NM Cannabis Control Division; Hollywood Reporter
2
Child welfare system
Kevin S. consent decree (class action by 14 foster children, settled 2020) — co-neutrals reported system in 'state of chaos' with children sleeping in CYFD offices. State Auditor found CYFD misused $4.2M of behavioral health appropriation. MDC jail 64% staffed (264/411 officers). 2025 arbitration: state achieved 75% timely wellness check rate (2H 2025). New deal requires 90% caseload compliance by Nov 2025 and 100% recruitment targets by Dec 2025. Decades-long crisis continues despite increased spending.
Kevin S. v. Blalock consent decree; CYFD co-neutrals report; NM State Auditor; KUNM Feb 2025
1
Medicaid program management
Centennial Care 2.0 waiver approved Dec 2023: 823,720 enrollees (~39% of NM population). 83% in managed care. Uninsured rate ~9% (184,800 residents). Disparities: AI/AN uninsured 21.1%, Hispanic 12.3%, White 6.9%. CHIP FCEP adopted for prenatal care regardless of immigration status. Post-PHE unwinding: 120,174 disenrolled (mostly procedural). NM poverty rate ~18% drives high enrollment. HSD restructured into Health Care Authority.
CMS Medicaid Reviews; NM HCA (formerly HSD); healthinsurance.org; KFF
2
Environmental program
Energy Transition Act (2019): 50% renewable by 2030, 80% by 2040, 100% carbon-free by 2045 for investor-owned utilities. PNM retired San Juan coal plant (Jun 2022) — replaced with 650MW solar and 300MW battery storage (~$1B). Methane regulations on oil/gas. All utilities on track for 40% renewables by 2025. Coal community transition fund and displaced worker assistance included. EPA-delegated programs operating.
EPA State Program Evaluations; NM Environment Department; 350 NM; CATF Apr 2025
2
Transportation project delivery
IIJA provides $3.2B in NM road/bridge funding 2022-2026 (38% increase). NMDOT awarded $52M to local governments (FY25). La Bajada Hill I-25 project completed ($40M). 5% of bridges (182/4,035) rated poor. 47% of bridges built pre-1970. Deteriorated roads cost NM motorists $3.6B annually (~$3,002/driver in urban areas). $6.6B in unfunded NMDOT projects. Oil field roads stressed by Permian Basin truck traffic.
NM DOT; TRIP Report Jan 2025; FHWA NM Division; Roads and Bridges
2
Unemployment insurance system
NM DWS UI system functional — online 24/7 for claims and weekly certifications. Participating in national Open UI Initiative for system modernization. NM unemployment rate historically above national average. Pandemic UI surge handled with standard challenges. Employer-funded system (employees do not contribute). 31,000+ jobs added in last 3 years but labor market remains tight in small state (~2.1M pop). Oil/gas sector creates jobs but volatile.
NM Workforce Solutions; DOL UI Data; NM DWS Open UI; Ballotpedia
2
Veterans services
Veterans services standard for NM's large veteran population centered around Kirtland AFB (Albuquerque), Cannon AFB (Clovis), Holloman AFB (Alamogordo), and White Sands Missile Range. FY26 NDAA includes $83M for Space RCO HQ at Kirtland, $10M for 58th SOW dormitory, $26M for explosive operations building. NM DVS administers state veteran benefits. NM Veterans' Memorial park maintained.
NM DVS Annual Reports; VA State Grant Data; Sen. Heinrich FY26 NDAA
2
Housing program effectiveness
Homelessness increased 108% in Albuquerque (2017-2024), vs 87% statewide and 40% national avg. 15,000-20,000 NM residents experience homelessness annually. Chronically unhoused rose from 33% to 40% (2017-2024). State lacks 32,000+ housing units. ABQ home prices up 78% to $330,900. Legislature dedicated $300M+ to housing (2024-2025 sessions). Housing NM provided $737M in FY24. But: only 9,000 units added vs 31,000+ jobs created. Housing crisis deepening despite record investment.
City Desk ABQ; HUD PIT Count; Housing NM FY24 Report; Source NM; Pew Jan 2025
1
Corrections system
Bernalillo County MDC: 64% staffed (264 of 411 officers), received $3M state grant for 21 positions. Population grew 30% (2019-2024). Recidivism: 40% return within same year; 64% rebooked within 9 years. LFC found 25% of defendants responsible for ~50% of all felonies. NM Justice Reinvestment Working Group report (Nov 2024) identified systemic issues. Corrections/probation received 8% pay raise (FY25) to address staffing crisis. State corrections facing similar challenges.
NM Corrections Dept; NM LFC Jul 2024; UNM CARA MDC Analysis; NM Justice Reinvestment Nov 2024
1
Federal funding captured
NM among highest federal spending per capita nationally. LANL: $1.79B authorized in FY26 NDAA. Sandia: record $5.2B economic impact (2025), 16,000 employees, $2.95B payroll, $1.03B small business spending. IIJA: $3.2B road/bridge funds 2022-2026. Hermits Peak: $5.45B federal compensation. Kirtland AFB: $119M in FY26 NDAA projects. SLCGP cybersecurity: ~$13M. IHS serves 23 tribes/pueblos. Federal funding is NM's economic backbone.
USASpending.gov; Sandia News Jan 2026; Sen. Heinrich FY26 NDAA; FEMA; Census Federal Aid
2
Federal corrective action plans
Standard compliance with federal requirements. Centennial Care 2.0 Medicaid waiver approved by CMS (Dec 2023). FEMA Hermits Peak Claims Office operating under federal oversight ($5.45B program). IIJA transportation funds deployed per federal requirements. EPA-delegated environmental programs maintained. No major federal corrective actions or fund clawbacks documented.
Federal Agency State Reviews; CMS waiver approval Dec 2023; FEMA; FHWA
3
Interstate cooperation
Standard interstate cooperation. Colorado River compact participation (NM is upper basin state). Border cooperation with Texas and Mexico on trade, immigration, and infrastructure. Navajo Nation water rights settlement coordination (multi-state). Regional wildfire coordination (Hermits Peak involved USFS, NM, federal agencies). Energy transition coordination with neighboring states on renewable grid integration.
Interstate Compact Records; Colorado River Compact; NM-TX border cooperation
3
Local government relations
Severely strained relationship with Albuquerque over crime. Gun carry suspension (Sep 2023): DA Bregman called it 'clearly unconstitutional,' Mayor Keller and Police Chief Medina refused to enforce, Sheriff Allen refused, AG Torrez (all Democrats) refused to defend. Unprecedented intra-party revolt. Tribal relations mixed: pre-K expansion ($98M, 554 slots) positive but Tribal Education Trust Fund bill pulled over Senate amendments (2024). Told sheriffs opposing red flag law to 'resign' (2020). National Guard crime deployment (Apr 2025) reflects local government failure to contain crisis.
DA Bregman statement; Sheriff Allen; AG Torrez; Mayor Keller; CBS News 2020; NBC Apr 2025
1
Federal litigation costs
Gun carry suspension litigation: TRO issued by Judge Urias, multiple lawsuits filed (National Association for Gun Rights et al.), amended orders also challenged — added litigation costs. Kevin S. consent decree: ongoing arbitration and compliance monitoring costs. Refused National Guard deployment for federal deportations (Jan 2025) — potential federal friction but no litigation. 287(g) ban may invite federal legal challenges. Overall litigation costs elevated by self-inflicted gun carry controversy.
NM AG Litigation Records; US District Court NM; Kevin S. v. Blalock
3
Constituent inquiry response
Standard constituent response times maintained. Governor's office handles inquiries through standard channels. Hermits Peak fire victims had dedicated FEMA Claims Office (separate federal process). COVID hotlines and DOH communication during pandemic. Wildfire evacuation communication effective (Ruidoso Jun 2024). Small state population (~2.1M) allows closer constituent engagement than larger states.
Governor's Office Internal Metrics; FEMA Hermits Peak Claims Office
3
Town halls held
Standard constituent engagement through public appearances, bill signings, emergency declarations, and 7 special legislative sessions. Former congresswoman (NM-1, 2013-2019) with established constituent engagement experience. Tribal engagement: met with Navajo Nation Council (Jan 2026) on education, housing, infrastructure priorities. COVID press briefings served as de facto town halls during pandemic. Ruidoso wildfire community engagement (Jun 2024).
Governor's Office Schedule; Navajo Nation Council Jan 2026; NM media
3
Constituent satisfaction
Approval ratings: 47% (Aug 2023), 46% (2024 poll), state 'equally divided' on job performance (Sep 2024). Among least-popular governors nationally (Apr 2022 ranking). Strong in northern NM (D stronghold), weak in eastern NM. ABQ metro: 48% approve, 42% disapprove. Gun carry ban drew bipartisan condemnation. $150K sexual harassment settlement damaged credibility. NM remains: dead last education, highest crime, high poverty, rising homelessness — outcomes undermine satisfaction despite record spending.
NM Political Report Aug 2023; ABQ Journal Sep 2024; Santa Fe New Mexican Apr 2022
1
ADA compliance
Standard ADA compliance. No major DOJ ADA enforcement actions against NM state agencies during tenure. State facilities and programs meet accessibility requirements. NM has significant disabled and elderly populations served through Medicaid (823,720 enrollees) and state programs. Universal child care and Opportunity Scholarship include accessibility provisions.
DOJ ADA Reviews; NM HCA; NM ECECD
3
Electoral accountability
Won reelection Nov 2022 with 51.7% vs Republican Mark Ronchetti — relatively narrow margin in a D-leaning state (Biden won NM by 10.8 pts in 2020). First term won with 57.2% (2018). 5.5-point drop in support reflects dissatisfaction. Term-limited for 2026 (NM Constitution limits to two consecutive terms). 7+ years in office (Jan 2019 - Jan 2027). Former NM Health Secretary and U.S. Representative (NM-1).
NM Secretary of State — 2022 General Election Results; 2018 General Election Results
2

Section B — State Outcomes 318/975

13 categories measuring real-world outcomes: economic performance, population trends, fiscal health, public safety, education, healthcare, infrastructure, cost of living, transparency, controversy, historical context, constituent satisfaction, and immigration compliance.

BLS LAUS: NM unemployment consistently above national average. BEA SAGDP: GDP growth heavily dependent on oil/gas revenue — volatile. High poverty rate (~18%). Low median household income (~$54K vs national ~$75K). Limited economic diversification outside government, energy, and national labs.
Census Vintage 2025: NM population DECLINED by 1,276 residents (2024-2025) — one of only 5 states losing population (alongside CA, HI, VT, WV). Total population ~2.12M. Domestic out-migration: ~2,300 net loss to other states. International migration dropped 50%+ as Trump administration cracked on illegal immigration and legal pathways. Deaths surpassed births: 22,120 deaths vs 20,235 births (2024-2025). Net migration in 2025 was only ~600 (down from ~8,000 in 2023/2024). Demographics: 49% Hispanic, 37% White non-Hispanic, 11% Native American, 3% other (Census ACS). UNM projections: aging population with minimal growth absent return to historical international migration. Brain drain to TX, CO, AZ. Rural depopulation ongoing across eastern NM.
Oil and gas revenue created surpluses. Reserves healthy. Credit ratings stable. Pension payments made. But: EXTREME dependence on oil/gas revenue makes NM vulnerable to energy price drops. Structural spending increases may not be sustainable if oil revenue declines.
FBI UCR 2024: NM violent crime rate 717/100K — 99.7% ABOVE national average of 359/100K. Ranked 2nd highest violent crime state nationally. Property crime 2,751/100K — 56.3% above national, ranked 1st (highest property crime state). Albuquerque (APD): 96 homicides in 2024 (3 fewer than 2023), aggravated assaults down 11%, shootings with injuries down 14%, property crime down 2%, but burglaries up 11% and drug offenses up. 2025 early data: violent crimes down 26%, homicide down 34%, robbery down 22%, property crime down 34%, car thefts down 43%. LFC found 25% of defendants responsible for ~50% of felonies. Governor declared gun violence public health emergency (Sep 2023) but unconstitutional gun carry ban struck down immediately by federal TRO. Deployed National Guard to ABQ (Apr 2025) — unprecedented step. MDC jail 64% staffed (264/411 officers). Recidivism: 40% return within same year.
NAEP 2024: NM RANKS DEAD LAST in ALL four categories for the NINTH consecutive time. 4th Grade Reading: 201 (national 214). 4th Grade Math: 224 (national 237). 8th Grade Reading: 245 (national 257). 8th Grade Math: 256 (national 272). Only 14-23% proficiency across subjects. 85%+ of schools are Title I. Despite NM Opportunity Scholarship (free college), K-12 outcomes are catastrophic.
Centennial Care 2.0 waiver (approved CMS Dec 2023): 823,720 enrollees (~39% of NM population), 83% in managed care. Uninsured rate ~9% (184,800 residents). Disparities: AI/AN uninsured 21.1%, Hispanic 12.3%, White 6.9%. HSD restructured into Health Care Authority. CHIP FCEP adopted for prenatal care regardless of immigration status. Post-PHE unwinding: 120,174 disenrolled. But: drug overdose death rate among highest nationally (fentanyl crisis). Mental health crisis significant. Rural healthcare access poor — IHS serves 23 tribes/pueblos but chronically underfunded (federal). NM poverty rate ~18% drives poor health outcomes. Governor ordered 12-week paid parental leave for state employees (Dec 2019). Life expectancy ~77 (near national average, better than peer states on this metric).
FHWA NBI: 5% of NM bridges (182 of 4,035) rated poor/structurally deficient; 47% built before 1970. IIJA provides $3.2B in road/bridge funding 2022-2026 (38% increase over pre-IIJA). Deteriorated roads cost NM motorists $3.6B annually (~$3,002/driver in urban areas per TRIP Report Jan 2025). NMDOT completed La Bajada Hill I-25 project ($40M). $6.6B in unfunded NMDOT projects remain. $1.25B nonrecurring infrastructure spending in 2024 GAA. Oil field roads stressed by Permian Basin truck traffic (Lea/Eddy counties). Water infrastructure aging — Colorado River compact issues (NM is upper basin state). $52M awarded to local governments (FY25) for transportation improvements.
BEA RPP: NM cost of living below national average (~92-95). Housing relatively affordable compared to coastal states. But: low incomes mean housing burden still significant for many residents. Albuquerque housing costs rising but still moderate nationally.
NM Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA, §14-2-1 et seq.) provides broad public access with 15-day response requirement. AG enforces IPRA through Government Counsel & Accountability team with complaint investigation system. NM data portal at data.nm.gov with COVID dashboard (during pandemic) and NM Vistas education portal. State Auditor conducts 530+ financial audits annually (elected, independent). BUT: $150K sexual harassment settlement initially disclosed as $62,500 — full amount obscured through installment payments until investigative reporting revealed total. Campaign funds used for personal misconduct settlement. Gun carry ban defended despite court finding it unconstitutional. Budget and LFC analyses publicly available through DFA and LFC websites. Cybersecurity EO 2024-011 mandated NIST compliance tracking across agencies.
UNCONSTITUTIONAL gun carry suspension — enjoined immediately, condemned by own party's AG and sheriff. $150,000 sexual harassment/assault settlement with former campaign staffer (initially underreported at $62,500). Dead LAST in education for 9th consecutive year. Highest crime rate among states. High poverty rate unchanged. Gun violence emergency declared but no measurable improvement. Narrow reelection (51.7%) in a D-leaning state reflects dissatisfaction.
Against NM predecessors: among worst historical assessments. Education dead last in ALL 4 NAEP categories for NINTH consecutive year — no improvement during 7+ years in office despite K-12 spending up 34.7% ($4.76B in FY25, +$580M over FY24) and teacher minimum salary tiers raised to $55K/$65K/$75K (from $36K/$44K/$54K). NM Opportunity Scholarship (free college for all state residents) is positive legacy but K-12 catastrophe negates pipeline value. Crime: 2nd highest violent crime, 1st highest property crime nationally. Predecessor Martinez (R) also struggled with crime/education — structural NM challenges. Unconstitutional gun carry suspension (Sep 2023) — rare for any governor to have executive order immediately enjoined by federal court. $150K sexual harassment settlement with former staffer (Dec 2019 complaint). Budget grew 69% from ~$6.4B to $10.8B during tenure — oil revenue windfall not translated to measurable outcome improvements. Population now declining (1 of only 5 states). Massive spending increases with no outcome gains defines legacy.
Won reelection 51.7% (2022) — narrow for a D-leaning state. Gun carry ban widely condemned across party lines. Highest crime rate. Worst education outcomes. Sexual harassment settlement. Low approval ratings in second term. Oil revenue windfall has not translated to improved quality of life for residents.
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Section C — Oath Fidelity -77 (-378 to +378)

126 items scored -3 to +3 measuring fidelity to constitutional oath. Grounded in Supreme Court precedent and constitutional text.

+3Exemplary +2Strong +1Adequate 0Neutral -1Concerning -2Failing -3Hostile

Protection of Life

Declaration of Independence; 5th/14th Amendments
Score: -28 Range: -93 to 93 Items: 31
Violent crime rate trend
NM violent crime rate ~778 per 100K (2023) — among highest in nation (2-3x national average). Rate elevated throughout Lujan Grisham tenure. Albuquerque particularly dangerous.
FBI UCR; NM DPS
-2
Homicide rate relative to national average
NM homicide rate approximately 12-14 per 100K — roughly double national average. Albuquerque homicide rate among highest for US cities. No meaningful intervention producing results.
FBI UCR; CDC WONDER; APD
-2
Homicide clearance rate
NM/Albuquerque homicide clearance rate approximately 25-30% — well below national average. APD understaffed and under federal consent decree. Investigation capacity severely limited.
FBI UCR; APD consent decree; DOJ
-2
Law enforcement staffing adequacy
NM law enforcement in staffing crisis. APD down to ~800 officers from 1,100+ authorized — under federal consent decree since 2014. NMSP below strength. Recruitment severely challenged statewide.
FBI LEOKA; APD staffing; DOJ consent decree
-2
Drug overdose death rate trend
NM drug overdose death rate approximately 42 per 100K — among highest in nation. Fentanyl deaths surging. Border proximity contributes to trafficking. Rate increased significantly during Lujan Grisham tenure.
CDC WONDER; NM DOH
-2
Emergency management preparedness
DHSEM meets basic FEMA capability targets. Wildfire preparedness improved after 2022 Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. Average for risk profile.
FEMA SPR; NM DHSEM
0
Preventable mass-casualty event response
Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Fire (2022) — federal prescribed burn that escaped. Over 340,000 acres burned. While federal-caused, state response coordination criticized. $4B+ federal aid package eventually secured.
FEMA; NM after-action; Hermit's Peak Fire Act
-1
Infrastructure safety — bridge and road conditions
NM structurally deficient bridges approximately 9%. Road conditions poor — ~28% rated poor. Large geography with limited maintenance budget. ASCE grade D+ for infrastructure.
FHWA NBI; ASCE NM; NMDOT
-1
Water and dam safety compliance
NM faces serious water scarcity. Pecos River and Rio Grande allocation disputes. PFAS contamination near military installations (Holloman, Cannon). Some dam safety concerns. Water infrastructure aging.
EPA SDWIS; NM OSE; PFAS contamination data
-1
Healthcare access — uninsured rate
NM uninsured rate approximately 9% (2023 ACS). Medicaid expansion covers large population. Rural access gaps persist. Near neutral threshold.
Census ACS; KFF
0
Maternal mortality rate
NM maternal mortality rate approximately 30-35 per 100K live births, above national average. Rural access gaps and poverty contribute. Racial disparities significant.
CDC WONDER; NM DOH
-1
Infant mortality rate
NM infant mortality rate approximately 5.5-6.0 per 1,000, near national average. Moderate outcomes despite poverty and access challenges.
CDC WONDER; NCHS
0
Self-defense rights — Castle Doctrine / Stand Your Ground
NM has limited Castle Doctrine. No statutory Stand Your Ground. Duty to retreat outside home. Case law provides some home defense protections. Moderate framework.
NM Statutes; NRA-ILA; case law
0
Death penalty procedural safeguards
NM repealed death penalty in 2009 (before Lujan Grisham). LWOP available. Victim services funded. Adequate restitution framework.
NM statutes; Death Penalty Information Center
+1
Suicide prevention program funding and outcomes
NM suicide rate approximately 24 per 100K — among highest in nation, significantly above national average. Limited funded prevention programs. Rural communities and Native American populations disproportionately affected. 988 integration slow.
CDC WISQARS; AFSP NM; NM DOH
-2
911/emergency response time adequacy
NM EMS response times challenged by vast rural geography. Some communities have 30+ minute response times. Urban areas adequate. NFPA compliance below 65% statewide.
NFPA; NM EMS Bureau
-1
Opioid/fentanyl interdiction and treatment funding
NM border proximity makes fentanyl interdiction critical but outcomes poor. Treatment capacity limited in rural areas. Overdose deaths rising. Oil revenue could fund more but investment insufficient relative to crisis.
SAMHSA; NM DOH; CDC WONDER
-1
Veteran suicide and healthcare access
NM DVS provides basic services. Veteran suicide rate above average consistent with overall high state suicide rate. VA medical centers in ABQ and nearby. Average support.
VA SAIL; NM DVS; HUD PIT
0
Food safety and foodborne illness enforcement
NM Environment Dept food safety meets basic FDA standards. Limited inspection capacity in rural areas. No major outbreaks linked to inspection failures.
FDA Conformance; NMED
0
Workplace fatality rate
NM workplace fatality rate approximately 5.5-6.0 per 100K FTE — above national average. Oil/gas, mining, and agriculture contribute to higher rates.
BLS CFOI; NM OSHA
-1
Domestic violence fatality rate and funding
NM has among highest DV rates in nation. Limited shelter capacity relative to need. DV homicide rate above national average. Funding has increased but outcomes remain poor.
NM CYFD; NNEDV
-1
Correctional facility death rate and conditions
NM Corrections Dept has elevated in-custody death rates. Some facility condition concerns. Federal oversight of certain facilities. Staffing shortages.
BJS; NM CD; DOJ
-1
Pollution-related mortality and environmental health
NM oil/gas operations create environmental concerns (Permian Basin). Some methane emissions issues. Most areas meet NAAQS. Superfund sites on schedule. Mixed environmental health.
EPA Green Book; EPA Superfund; NMED
0
Pedestrian and traffic fatality rate
NM traffic fatality rate approximately 1.8-2.0 per 100M VMT — among highest in nation. DWI/DUI rates very high. Pedestrian fatalities elevated particularly in ABQ. Infrastructure and enforcement gaps.
NHTSA FARS; NMDOT
-2
Sanctity of life legislative framework
Lujan Grisham signed repeal of pre-Roe abortion ban (2021). NM has no gestational limits on abortion. No clinic safety regulations. State funds abortion. Active promotion of abortion access post-Dobbs.
NM SB 10 (2021); Guttmacher; Dobbs v. Jackson (2022)
-3
Homeless mortality — exposure deaths, overdoses in encampments, violence
Requested $50M for homelessness services. Focused on services over enforcement.
NM Governor's Office 2025
0
Population loss impact on services — EMS/hospital closures, tax base erosion
NM population declined by 1,276 (2024-2025), one of only 5 states losing population.
KRQE, ABQ Journal 2026
-2
Police staffing/funding — governor's direct actions on law enforcement
Obtained $100M+ for police. Signed auto theft and fentanyl penalties.
NM Governor's Office 2025
+1
Criminal recidivism from early release — parole/clemency, no-cash-bail
Signed law eliminating parole fees. Repeatedly pushed for pretrial detention reform.
Source NM; Santa Fe New Mexican
-1
Prison/shelter housing — biological males in women's facilities
No legislation protecting biological sex separation. State policies align with gender identity.
NM ACLU; NM Governor's Office
-2
Mental health crisis system — involuntary commitment reform, crisis intervention
Signed behavioral health bills in 2025 special session.
NM Governor's Office Feb 2025
+1

Constitutional Rights

Bill of Rights (Amendments I-X); 14th Amendment incorporation
Score: -16 Range: -87 to 87 Items: 29
Second Amendment — right to carry status
NM is shall-issue but Lujan Grisham attempted to suspend carry rights via emergency order (Sept 2023) — immediately challenged and partially blocked by federal court. Unprecedented attempt to unilaterally suspend 2A.
NM emergency order Sept 2023; federal injunction; USCCA
-1
Second Amendment — semi-automatic rifle restrictions
NM has no assault weapons ban. Legislature has not passed one. Common rifles remain legal. However, governor has expressed support for bans.
NM Statutes; legislative records
0
Second Amendment — magazine capacity restrictions
NM has no magazine capacity restrictions. Proposals have failed in legislature. Standard-capacity magazines legal.
NM Statutes; NRA-ILA
0
Second Amendment — Red Flag / ERPO due process
NM enacted ERPO (2020, signed by Lujan Grisham). Ex parte initial order. Hearing within 10 days. Preponderance standard. Limited due process protections.
NM Stat. 40-17; ERPO data
-1
First Amendment — campus free speech protections
NM has no campus free speech statute. UNM has standard speech policies. No major documented suppression incidents. Average environment.
FIRE; NM legislation
0
First Amendment — anti-SLAPP protections
NM has no comprehensive anti-SLAPP statute. Basic common law protections only. Some protection through procedural rules.
Public Participation Project; NM rules
0
First Amendment — religious liberty protections
NM has no state RFRA. General respect for religious exercise consistent with large Catholic and Native American religious traditions. No documented conflicts.
NM Constitution; Becket Fund
0
Fourth Amendment — warrant requirements for digital surveillance
NM relies on federal Carpenter standard. No comprehensive electronic privacy statute. Average protections.
EFF; ACLU NM
0
Fourth Amendment — civil asset forfeiture reform
NM abolished civil asset forfeiture entirely (2015, before Lujan Grisham) — requires criminal conviction. National model. Among strongest property rights protections against forfeiture.
NM Civil Asset Forfeiture Act; Institute for Justice
+2
Fifth Amendment — eminent domain protections post-Kelo
NM has moderate eminent domain protections. Standard public use requirements. No comprehensive Kelo reform legislation.
NM Constitution; Castle Coalition
0
Due process — regulatory takings and permitting timelines
NM has increasing regulatory burden particularly for oil/gas (Environment Dept rules). Some permitting delays documented. Energy transition regulations creating new compliance burdens.
NMED; state auditor reports
-1
Tenth Amendment — federal overreach resistance
Lujan Grisham acquiesces to federal authority. No state sovereignty pushback. Cooperative posture. Extended COVID measures aligned with federal mandates.
Governor's executive orders
-1
Equal Protection — state contracting nondiscrimination
NM maintains some race-conscious programs. No SFFA compliance review. Average state contracting framework.
NM procurement data; GSD
0
Second Amendment — state preemption of local firearms laws
NM preemption weakened by Lujan Grisham's attempted local-authority suspension of carry rights. ABQ has enacted additional local restrictions. Preemption eroding.
NM preemption statute; ABQ ordinances
-1
First Amendment — government transparency and FOIA compliance
NM IPRA compliance has documented issues. Governor's office response times variable. Some documented delays and fee disputes. Below average transparency.
NM IPRA; NM FOG; media audits
-1
Sixth Amendment — public defender funding adequacy
NM public defender caseloads among highest in nation — far exceeding recommended maximums. Chronic underfunding documented by Sixth Amendment Center. Severe staffing shortages. Constitutional crisis level.
Sixth Amendment Center NM; LOPD
-2
Eighth Amendment — bail reform and pretrial detention
NM constitutional amendment (2016, before Lujan Grisham) allows pretrial detention of dangerous defendants. Risk-based system. Balanced approach. Some implementation challenges.
NM Constitution Art. II Sec. 13; court data
0
Property rights — regulatory burden and economic freedom
NM has moderate regulatory burden. Oil/gas regulation increasing. Economic freedom mixed — low regulatory burden in some areas but increasing environmental regulation.
Mercatus RegData; Cato Economic Freedom
0
Second Amendment — governor's litigation posture on firearms cases
Lujan Grisham's unprecedented attempt to suspend 2A via emergency order represents the most aggressive anti-2A gubernatorial action in modern history. Federal court issued TRO. AG Torrez initially declined to enforce. Extraordinary overreach.
Sept 2023 emergency order; TRO; AG response
-2
First Amendment — compelled speech protections
NM has no major compelled speech mandates. No documented compelled speech issues. Neutral environment.
NM legislation; agency policies
0
Commerce Clause compliance — interstate trade barriers
NM has average interstate commerce environment. Some oil/gas regulatory friction. No documented unconstitutional trade barriers.
IJ; court rulings
0
Privileges and Immunities — occupational licensing reform
NM has moderate licensing burden. Some reform including military spouse provisions. No comprehensive reform. Average.
IJ License to Work; NCSL
0
Contract Clause — state compliance with contractual obligations
NM pension systems approximately 70-75% funded. Improving with oil revenue contributions. PERA making required payments. Bond ratings improving (Aa1 Moody's 2026). Adequate compliance.
Pew pension; PERA CAFR; bond ratings
+1
Jury trial rights — civil and criminal jury access
NM has standard jury trial access. District court system adequate. Some rural courthouse access challenges.
NM courts; NCSC
0
Immigration law compliance — Supremacy Clause adherence
NM is sanctuary-friendly. Driver's licenses for illegal aliens (since 2003). Limited ICE cooperation in some jurisdictions. No state E-Verify mandate. In-state tuition for illegal aliens. Lujan Grisham has resisted federal immigration enforcement.
8 USC 1373; FAIR sanctuary database; NM statutes
-2
Qualified immunity / due process for officers
Signed New Mexico Civil Rights Act (2021) eliminating qualified immunity for ALL government workers — first state to do so.
Police Magazine; The Hill 2021
-3
Voter ID and ballot chain-of-custody
No voter ID requirement in NM. No ballot chain-of-custody strengthening.
NM Governor's Office April 2025
-1
Non-citizen voting prevention
No non-citizen voting prevention measures. NM allows driver's licenses for undocumented immigrants.
General NM policy
-1
Women's sports / Title IX — biological sex protections in state-funded athletics
Blasted NCAA transgender athlete ban. Women's sports protection bills defeated every session.
Washington Times Feb 2025
-2

Child Welfare & Parental Rights

Meyer v. Nebraska; Pierce v. Society of Sisters; Troxel v. Granville; 14th Amendment
Score: -21 Range: -75 to 75 Items: 25
Parental rights legislation — statutory recognition
NM has no Parental Bill of Rights. Some administrative policies override parental authority. No legislative strengthening of parental rights.
NM legislation
-1
Education choice — school choice programs
NM has very limited choice. No ESA/voucher. Charter schools permitted but limited. Among worst education outcomes in nation with little choice available.
EdChoice NM; NAPCS
-1
Parental notification/consent for medical procedures on minors
NM allows minors to consent to reproductive health services without parental notification. No parental notification requirement for abortion. Expanded minor consent provisions.
NM minor consent statutes; Guttmacher
-1
Gender-transition procedures for minors — restrictions
NM has no restrictions on gender-transition procedures for minors. State Medicaid covers procedures. No shield law but no restrictions either. Facilitates access.
NM Medicaid; NM legislation
-1
Child abuse and neglect — substantiated case rate trend
NM child maltreatment rate above national average. CYFD has documented capacity issues. High-profile child death cases. System strained.
ACF NCANDS; NM CYFD
-1
Foster care — CFSR conformity assessment
NM CFSR results below average. Conformity on approximately 3 of 7 outcomes. CYFD under scrutiny. Kevin S. lawsuit settlement. System capacity strained.
ACF CFSR; NM CYFD; Kevin S. settlement
-1
Foster care — permanency outcomes
NM foster care permanency outcomes below national average. Long time to permanency. Placement instability. CYFD capacity issues.
ACF AFCARS; NM CYFD
-1
Child trafficking prevention and prosecution
NM has trafficking statute. ICAC participation. I-25/I-40 corridor enforcement. Limited prosecution resources. Average framework.
Polaris Project; Shared Hope International; NM AG
0
Education outcomes — 4th grade NAEP reading proficiency
NM 4th grade NAEP reading proficiency approximately 18% at or above proficient (2022) — worst or near-worst in nation. Dramatically below national average of 32%. No meaningful improvement during Lujan Grisham tenure despite increased education spending.
NCES NAEP 2022
-3
Education outcomes — 8th grade NAEP math proficiency
NM 8th grade NAEP math proficiency approximately 14% at or above proficient (2022) — worst in nation. Far below national average of 26%. Persistent failure despite Yazzie/Martinez court ruling requiring improvement.
NCES NAEP 2022; Yazzie/Martinez
-3
Parental curriculum transparency
NM has limited parental transparency laws. Some health education curriculum concerns from parents. No statutory review right. Limited opt-out provisions.
NM PED; school district policies
-1
Social media — minor protections
NM relies on federal COPPA. No state social media minor protection law.
NCSL; NM legislation
0
Juvenile justice — age-appropriate treatment
NM juvenile jurisdiction to 18. CYFD juvenile justice programs. Some rehabilitation focus. Average framework. Detention overcrowding reported.
JJDPA; OJJDP NM; NM CYFD
0
Child poverty rate and state response
NM child poverty rate approximately 23% (2023 ACS) — among highest in nation despite oil revenue boom. Poverty concentrated in rural and Native American communities. Massive state surplus not translating to child poverty reduction.
Census ACS SAIPE; KIDS COUNT
-2
Adoption and permanency — adoptive family support
NM has standard adoption programs. CYFD adoption services adequate. No notable enhancements or barriers.
ACF AFCARS; NM CYFD
0
Homeschool rights and protections
NM has permissive homeschool framework. Notification required. No mandatory testing or curriculum mandates. No mandatory assessments. Generally friendly.
HSLDA NM; NM Stat. 22-1-2.1
+1
Child sexual abuse material (CSAM) enforcement
NM ICAC task force participates. AG enforcement adequate. Some resource limitations. Average prosecution framework.
ICAC; NCMEC; NM AG
0
School safety — violence prevention and incident response
NM has basic school safety programs. SRO presence in some districts. Limited school safety grants. Average framework.
NASRO; NM PED
0
Children's mental health services access
NM school counselor ratio approximately 700:1 — far worse than national average. Children's mental health access severely limited. Behavioral health workforce shortage critical. Among worst states.
ASCA; SAMHSA NM; NM CYFD
-2
Childhood vaccination — parental choice protections
NM has medical and religious exemptions for school immunization. No philosophical exemption. Standard framework.
NCSL; CDC; NM immunization statutes
0
Child care affordability and access
NM enacted free child care for families under 400% FPL (2023) — most generous in nation. Funded with oil revenue. Significant investment despite implementation challenges.
NM ECECD; national reporting
+1
Education — teacher quality and retention
NM teacher vacancy rates among highest in nation (~15-20%). Low salary relative to cost. High turnover. Severe shortages particularly in rural and tribal communities. Emergency certifications widespread.
NCES; NM PED workforce; NEA
-2
Child nutrition — food insecurity rate
NM child food insecurity approximately 20% — above national average. School meal participation adequate but food deserts prevalent in rural areas. Poverty contributes to high food insecurity.
USDA ERS; Feeding America
-1
Custody and family court — due process in child removal
NM family courts have standard framework but Kevin S. settlement revealed systemic CYFD issues in child welfare. Due process concerns documented in class action context.
Kevin S. settlement; NM courts; ABA
-1
Children with disabilities — IDEA compliance
NM rated 'Needs Assistance' for multiple consecutive years by OSEP. Yazzie/Martinez ruling found state failing to adequately serve at-risk students including those with disabilities. Below average.
OSEP; Yazzie/Martinez; IDEA Part B
-1

Faithful Discharge of Duties

Gubernatorial oath; Art. IV Sec. 4; state constitutional requirements
Score: -12 Range: -123 to 123 Items: 41
Budget balance — structural surplus/deficit
NM has massive structural surplus driven by oil/gas boom. $3.5B+ surplus FY25. SB 26 redirects excess to permanent fund. Multiple consecutive surplus years. But surplus driven by oil windfall, not fiscal discipline.
NM CAFR; LFC; NASBO
+2
State credit rating stability
Moody's upgraded NM from Aa2 to Aa1 (Jan 2026) — first upgrade since early 1990s. Among highest state ratings. S&P and Fitch also strong. Oil revenue driving improvement.
Moody's Jan 2026; S&P; Fitch
+2
Rainy day / budget stabilization fund adequacy
NM reserves massive — Severance Tax Permanent Fund $8.2B (2024), growing to $30B by 2035 via SB 26 (2023). General fund reserves exceed 25%. Among best-funded states.
NM SIC; SB 26; NASBO; Pew
+3
Pension system funding responsibility
NM pension (PERA, ERB) funded ratio approximately 70-75%, improving with oil revenue. Making full ARC. Trajectory positive.
Pew pension; NM PERA/ERB CAFRs
+1
State debt burden
NM debt per capita below national median. Debt-to-GDP low given oil revenue boost. Manageable debt burden.
Census; Moody's; NM State Treasurer
+1
Government efficiency — state employee headcount per capita
NM state employee headcount per capita above national median. Small population with large government footprint. Growing under Lujan Grisham with new programs.
Census Public Employment; BLS
-1
Inspector General / state auditor independence
NM State Auditor independent. Performance audits conducted. Mixed responsiveness from governor. Some oversight gaps documented.
NM OSA; audit reports
0
Ethics violations and personal scandals
Lujan Grisham settled sexual harassment/groping complaint for $62,500 from campaign funds (2020). Former campaign staffer alleged governor grabbed his crotch. Settlement raised ethical concerns. Additional staff turnover and management complaints documented.
Media reporting; settlement documents; ethics commission
-2
Executive order restraint
Lujan Grisham attempted to suspend Second Amendment rights via emergency health order (Sept 2023) — immediately challenged and partially blocked by federal court. One of most extraordinary EO overreaches by any governor. Multiple EOs exceeded constitutional bounds.
Sept 2023 emergency order; federal TRO; court records
-3
Emergency powers — adherence to statutory limits
Extended COVID powers extensively. Then used public health emergency powers to attempt firearms carry suspension (Sept 2023) — struck down. Used emergency powers for non-traditional purposes. Pattern of exceeding statutory authority.
NM emergency statutes; COVID orders; 2A suspension order
-2
Legislative cooperation — veto override rate
Lujan Grisham works with Democratic legislature. Few vetoes overridden. Generally productive relationship. Some friction on oil/gas regulation timing.
NM Legislature records
+1
Judicial appointments — qualifications and process integrity
Standard appointment process. Appointees generally meet qualifications. No documented patronage. Average quality.
NM judicial appointments; state bar
0
Timely execution of laws — implementation of enacted legislation
Yazzie/Martinez education ruling compliance very slow — court found state still not meeting requirements years after ruling. Sanctuary-like policies constitute selective federal non-enforcement. Some implementation gaps.
Yazzie/Martinez compliance; state agency data; ICE data
-1
Federal fund utilization — grant management
NM federal grant management adequate. ARPA utilization on track. No major clawbacks. Hermit's Peak Fire federal aid being disbursed.
Federal Audit Clearinghouse; NM CAFR
0
Public approval as competence indicator
Lujan Grisham approval approximately 38-42% (Morning Consult). 2A suspension attempt hurt approval significantly. Below average governor approval.
Morning Consult; NM polls
-1
State IT security and data protection
NM DoIT has basic cybersecurity. CISO appointed. No major breaches. Budget adequate. Standard performance.
NASCIO; NM DoIT
0
Infrastructure spending — capital budget execution
Capital budget execution mixed despite oil revenue surplus. ASCE grade D+ for NM infrastructure. Massive needs relative to capacity. Some investment but backlog large.
ASCE NM; NMDOT; budget reports
0
Disaster fund readiness
NM has emergency funds. Hermit's Peak Fire required major federal assistance. Oil revenue provides buffer but risk profile (wildfire, drought) significant.
FEMA; NM DHSEM
0
Workforce development — unemployment system integrity
NM UI trust fund adequate. Some pandemic-era fraud. Processing times improved. Average performance.
DOL UI Data; NM DWS
0
Medicaid program integrity
NM Medicaid (HSD) serves large population. Error rates near average. No federal sanctions. Budget compliance adequate with oil revenue cushion.
CMS PERM; NM HSD
0
Election administration — constitutional compliance
NM has photo voter ID requirement enacted (2005). Paper ballot trail. Post-election audits. Voter roll maintenance adequate. Average administration.
EAC EAVS; Verified Voting; NM SOS
0
Transparency — state budget accessibility
NM has basic online budget information. Sunshine Portal provides some data. Average transparency. Oil revenue tracking improving.
NM Sunshine Portal; U.S. PIRG
0
Intergovernmental cooperation — federal compliance balanced with sovereignty
Sanctuary-like policies limit federal immigration cooperation in some areas. Otherwise cooperative on other federal programs. Non-compliance selective to immigration.
Federal compliance records; ICE data
-1
Gubernatorial succession and continuity planning
No Lt. Governor currently (position vacant at times). Secretary of State succeeds. Basic COOP plan. Adequate but not robust succession.
NM Constitution; FEMA COOP
0
Anti-corruption — state procurement integrity
NM has some procurement concerns. Small state with limited oversight capacity. Some documented irregularities in CYFD and health contracts. Competitive bidding below 80% in some categories.
NM procurement; OSA audit reports
-1
Gas price burden — state gas taxes, refinery regulations, cap-and-trade
NM gas tax low at 18.88 cents/gallon. Gas prices below national avg. Oil-producing state.
AARP NM Tax Guide
+1
Energy affordability — residential electricity costs from state policy
NM electricity ~14 cents/kWh, below national average.
Consumer Affairs; EIA
+1
Energy policy competence — forced mandates without infrastructure readiness
Energy Transition Act mandates 50% renewables by 2030, 80% by 2040. Aggressive timeline.
NM Governor's Office 2019; Sierra Club
-1
Property tax burden — effective rate vs national median
NM effective property tax 0.61%, below national median.
Tax Foundation
+1
Regulatory cost burden — permits, compliance costs per household/business
NM ranks 23rd in business tax climate. Green mandates add costs.
NM EDD 2025
-1
Unfunded mandates on municipalities
Energy Transition Act creates compliance costs. Behavioral health mandates without full funding.
NM policy analysis
-1
Cost of living trajectory — policy-driven affordability trend
NM cost of living below national average. But population decline signals concerns.
Consumer Affairs
0
Immigration fiscal burden — taxpayer cost of sanctuary/benefits policies
Signed Immigrant Safety Act banning 287(g) agreements and ICE detention.
Source NM; ACLU-NM 2026
-2
Homelessness spending accountability — spending vs measurable outcomes
$120M for housing/homelessness but limited accountability metrics.
NM Governor's Office 2025
0
Encampment enforcement — response to SCOTUS Grants Pass ruling
Acknowledged NM seen as lenient on encampments. Prioritized services over enforcement.
Source NM July 2024
-1
Net domestic migration trend — people leaving vs arriving
NM lost 1,276 people. One of only 5 states with population decline.
KRQE; Census 2026
-2
Business exodus — corporate HQ and jobs relocating due to policy
Population decline and net outmigration suggest weak business retention.
Dallas Fed; NM EDD
-1
DA accountability — governor's power to remove rogue prosecutors
3rd Judicial District DA office faced crisis. Supreme Court had to intervene. No governor action.
NM Business Coalition 2024
-1
Election infrastructure — ballot harvesting, drop box security, audit transparency
No voter ID requirement. No ballot harvesting restrictions.
NM Governor's Office 2025
-1
Weaponization of state agencies — using AG/regulatory bodies against political opponents
Used executive authority for gun control emergency order (2023) widely criticized as overreach.
General NM reporting
-1
Foreign adversary protections — Chinese land, TikTok bans, Confucius Institutes
No TikTok ban found. No Chinese land restrictions. Limited foreign adversary action.
General research
-1
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