Albuquerque, June 1--The following is a statement from Republican Party of New Mexico Chairman Steve Pearce regarding last night's violent protest in Albuquerque:

"It's understandable that people are frustrated and angry over the shocking death of George Floyd. People have the right to demonstrate peacefully, and we encourage them to exercise this freedom. But it must not be tolerated when demonstrators use protests as an excuse to cause destruction, attack police and set fires. This is wrong, and we must condemn this behavior. Mass gatherings are still prohibited, so where's the governor to enforce these violations? She and Mayor Keller should comply with the current order and do more to protect our citizens and their property."