Albuquerque, NM - This afternoon during debate in the House Appropriations Committee, Rep. Antonio "Moe" Maestas made a series of unprompted insults directed toward Republican Rep. Sarah Maestas Barnes.

Complaining that he'd received bad press for voting to kill a popular proposal to expand Baby Brianna's law, Rep. Maestas attacked its sponsor, Rep. Maestas Barnes, for "snivelling to KRQE" about the Democrats killing the bill. He went on to complain about how KRQE had the highest ratings that night, evidently upset that his vote against the bill increasing penalties for child abuse caused him so much bad publicity.

"Rep. Maestas' attacks against Rep. Maestas Barnes completely crossed the line, and should be condemned by his Democrat colleagues," said Republican Party of New Mexico Spokesman Tucker Keene. "Unfortunately, Maestas has proven time and time again that bills protecting children will bring out the worst in him, and today's conduct fits into a disturbing pattern of disruptive and angry behavior directed toward Rep. Maestas Barnes and this legislation. Last year during the special session, he banged on her desk while debating similar legislation from Rep. Maestas Barnes. His behavior should not continue to be tolerated in New Mexico."