In a recent email, the Republican Party of New Mexico (RPNM) singled out U.S. Representative Ben Ray Luján and urged their supporters to “work hard to change the complexion of our Congressional delegation...so issues will be solved and our values will be upheld.”

U.S. Representative, and candidate for U.S. Senate, Ben Ray Luján was quick to condemn this racist dog whistle, calling it “deeply offensive to all New Mexicans.”

DPNM Chair Marg Elliston released the following statement regarding RPNM’s recent call to change the ‘complexion’ of New Mexico Congressional Delegation:

“The Republican Party of New Mexico seems to have missed the message that nearly a thousand New Mexicans sent when President Trump came to Albuquerque: hate has no place in our state or in our politics. Instead, Republicans in New Mexico are following in the footsteps of President Trump, singling out people of color and using racist dog-whistles to attack our elected officials.

“These attacks are dangerous and harmful to our democracy. Congressman Luján was right to condemn this unacceptable behavior, and Chairman Pearce should apologize immediately. New Mexicans know that our diversity is our strength, and we will not stand for political parties fanning the flames of hatred and racism.”