Governor's Response Demonstrates a Disregard for Our Citizens' Safety and Well-Being

Albuquerque, April 11—The Republican Party of New Mexico is shocked and dismayed that a request from Rep. Yvette Herrell to Gov. Lujan Grisham to deploy the New Mexico National Guard to the Mexico border was dismissed. The Governor's refusal to take action reeks of politics and manifests her lack of concern for the health and safety of New Mexicans.

Rep. Herrell had written the Governor, stressing the need for the troops to stop the massive wave of migrant families and unaccompanied children who are coming across the border. The Congresswoman informed the Governor that New Mexico is on the front line of the border problem that's been exacerbated by the Biden Administration's weak immigration policies. She added the influx of migrants also threatens public health as New Mexico continues to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Governor's Office rejected Herrell's request, suggesting she take her concerns to federal agencies.

"This is another case of our Governor being derelict in her duty as Chief Executive," said Republican Party of New Mexico Chairman Steve Pearce. "She continues to fail New Mexicans with her poor choices and bad decisions. It's harrowing to know that after virtually destroying our state with her pandemic policies that the Governor would risk the security and safety of New Mexicans along the border. When she cannot deal with a problem, she deflects. This is poor leadership and a dangerous way to handle the threat at our state border."

Rep. Herrell also pointed out to the Governor that the U.S. Border Patrol is overworked, undermanned and under-supplied. She said it's the Governor's duty to protect her citizens.

"If Governor Grisham was serious about the health and welfare of New Mexican citizens, she would move swiftly to send National Guard troops to the border," said Herrell. "She does not need to wait for the federal government to do her job. We already know many migrants coming across our southern border illegally have been exposed to or have COVID-19."

The U.S. Border Patrol last week reported nearly 170,000 encounters with migrants on the U.S.-Mexico border in March. That was a 20-year high. That figure includes almost 19,000 children traveling by themselves across the U.S.-Mexico border. The crossings are happening in record numbers.
The Republican Party of New Mexico (RPNM) advances the ideals of individual liberties for the advancement of its citizens and the greater prosperity of our communities throughout New Mexico. Led by an Executive Board and its Chairman, former NM Congressman Steve Pearce, RPNM serves all New Mexicans via its headquarters in Albuquerque and can be contacted at (505) 298-3662.