Tuesday, June 23, 2020
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WHAT'S HAPPENING
SPECIAL SESSION

The Special Session at the Roundhouse that began last Thursday concluded last night. During the Session, the Capitol was closed to the public, despite a bi-partisan legal challenge to the Supreme Court to make our New Mexico government open for its citizens. Lawmakers, media and legislative staff were all permitted inside the Roundhouse. Meantime, on the House side, there were many technical glitches and video issues with virtual committee meetings and hearings during the Session.

Lawmakers were supposed to focus on the pressing issue of the state budget crisis, but some lawmakers and the governor used the Session as an opportunity to push for other partisan legislation.
SMOKE AND MIRRORS BUDGET TO FIX MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR DEFICIT PASSES BOTH HOUSES
The legislature has passed a $7 billion budget solvency plan that calls for hundreds of millions of dollars in federal COVID-19 funding and taps into vital state reserves. It also scales back spending increases. The move aims to eliminate a more than $2 billion deficit, partly due to falling oil prices and the ongoing pandemic that has shut down businesses and collapsed New Mexico's economy. The budget solution does little to address serious spending issues. The plan doesn't go far enough in cuts and isn't fiscally responsible, and many believe the passed legislation will lead to higher taxes down the road.

“Smoke and mirrors budgeting will compound the negative outlook in our state’s budget,” said House Republican Whip Rod Montoya. “Protecting lawmakers from making these tough decisions- that all New Mexicans are having to make by the way- will force the legislature to impose massive tax increases next year on people who are still lucky enough to have a job.....There is a reason why Republicans call this session smoke and mirrors. We simply did not do enough to protect New Mexicans from massive tax increases that the majority obviously plans for January. The real losers of this session are the businesses, workers and law enforcement who will pay the price for this lack of leadership.”
Here's the story from the Associated Press. ([link removed])

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LAWMAKERS PASS REVISED ELECTION REFORM BILL THAT WOULD HAVE ALLOWED VOTE-BY-MAIL THIS FALL

A bill sponsored by Democrat Sen. Daniel Ivey-Soto, other Democrats and the governor, looked to change election law during the Special Session. SB-4 would have allowed County Clerks to send vote-by-mail (VBM) ballots to New Mexicans for the November election. But Republican Sen. Cliff Pirtle of Roswell amended the bill so only absentee ballots, requiring an application and assuring strong security measures, would be used. The amendment received bi-partisan support and passed. This was another sneaky attempt to change election law for political gain. Under the revised legislation, voters must continue to apply for absentee ballots, which have true fraud protections and tracking procedures.

"Sen. Ivey-Soto continues to push for mail-in ballots and doesn't seem to care about ballot integrity or fair elections. He knows there are no strong security measures with VBMs. There are too many ways fraud can be committed, and vote-by-mail opens the doors to all kinds of serious problems," said Republican Party of New Mexico Chairman Steve Pearce. "The Senator is obsessed with this, and this Special Session, especially, is no time to tinker with election laws. We must focus on the state budget crisis. We are a state on the brink of financial collapse, and progressives are again diverting attention from the real issues at hand."

"We ended up with a bill that will strengthen ballot security and will allow voters to cast ballots from their homes if they choose it's the best thing for their health and safety," said Pirtle. "We took a partisan bill, added a bipartisan amendment and created legislation that the entire Senate can support."

Here's the story. ([link removed])

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BILL THAT REQUIRES LAW ENFORCEMENT TO WEAR BODY CAMERAS HEADS TO GOVERNOR'S DESK

The House and Senate have approved legislation to have officers wear body cameras and turn them on when responding to calls. The bill passed in the House yesterday amid concerns by many about the speed with which the bill flew through the chambers. Many are concerned that there was no input by police or other law enforcement group. There's also the concerns of costs, in this tough fiscal times, to rural communities, already facing serious fiscal pressures during this pandemic.

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BALLOON FIESTA WON'T GET OFF THE GROUND IN 2020

Balloon Fiesta organizers have decided the annual event this fall won't fly. They've canceled the biggest attraction in the state. Officials say there are too many risks associated with COVID-19. The event will take place in 2021. It seems strange that the governor and state officials will allow hundreds of people to organize peaceful protests, but this gathering is put on the shelf. This is the latest New Mexico casualty after the governor put into place her latest Public Health Order action.

Here's the story from KOB-TV. ([link removed])

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SHUTTERED DOORS, SHATTERED DREAMS

The governor's inequitable Public Health Order continues to damage our economy as more businesses close their doors. One of New Mexico’s popular bakeries is shutting its doors permanently. Pie-O-Neer, set in the heart of Pie Town, has decided to close after a quarter of a century. Hundreds of New Mexico businesses have shut down during this pandemic.

Here's the story from KRQE-TV. ([link removed])

And two metro movie theaters, Movies 8 and Movies West, are going dark for good. The "dollar theaters" will be closing its doors in Albuquerque after 30 years.

Here's the story. ([link removed])

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DOROTHY RUNNELS PASSES AWAY

A great lady in New Mexico politics is gone.

Dorothy Runnels, the widow of former Congressman Harold Runnels and mother of former Lt. Gov. Mike Runnels, passed away on June 17.

Runnels was a New Mexico pioneer who devoted herself and her family to improving the lives of New Mexicans. Politics was her life, and her giving spirit was inspirational. That generosity became a huge influence on Chairman Steve Pearce deciding to get into politics.

Runnels, a registered Democrat, made history when she ran for her husband’s 2^nd Congressional District seat, setting a precedent for write-in campaigns in New Mexico. When her husband, Harold, died in 1980, she boldly waged a write-in campaign as an independent and nearly beat Joe Skeen. Skeen, also a write-in candidate, was elected to Congress and would serve 22 years.

That election was the third in American history where a write-in candidate won a Congressional seat, and Dorothy’s strong finish made headlines after her successful legal fight got her name on the ballot.

Runnels’s write-in campaign helped teach New Mexico voters how that process works.

But Runnels was more than a trailblazer and a staple in New Mexico’s political world. She was kind, honest, courageous and always available to help others achieve their goals.

Chairman Pearce was especially close to the Runnels family. He worked for them, flew Runnels and her husband to and from Washington and became great friends with the family. When Pearce went into politics, Dorothy ignored partisanship and supported her dear friend. Her loyalty and devotion to the Chairman and his causes were unyielding.

“I’ve lost a friend, and I’ve lost a mentor. Dorothy will always be a part of me,” said Chairman Pearce. “She has influenced my life in so many ways and, I’ll always cherish her generosity, kindness and strong will. She was truly a New Mexico treasure and her legacy will live forever in our great state.”

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CONGRATULATIONS TO TRUMP VICTORY NEW MEXICO!

The Republican Party of New Mexico wants to recognize the Trump Victory team for an extraordinary accomplishment.

Members of New Mexico Trump Victory have won the prestigious national Campaign Cowboy Trophy Award for the second week in a row! To receive this award is a big salute from the Trump Campaign, but to earn it two straight weeks is truly an honor.

The award is a testament to the hard work, dedication and milestones reached by the many team members who have been contacting and registering voters. The team has also been recruiting and educating constituents to help generate support in the ongoing mission to win New Mexico for President Trump.

New Mexico is among 18 "priority Trump Victory states" in 2020. Each week states compete to grab the coveted Campaign Cowboy Trophy Award based on a number of catagories and metrics.

There are individual and statewide metrics that include one-on-one meetings, MAGA Meet-Ups, Trump Victory Leadership Initiative Training Classes, Voter Registrations, Neighborhood Team Leader goals and voter contacts, which include both doors and phones. New Mexico is among the best in the nation in all of these areas.

The trophy is given to the state that has the highest numbers per category as mentioned above, which is then weighted by the actual number of staff members!

RPNM would like to congratulate Trump Victory New Mexico State Director Leslie White and her amazing team!
STAY INVOLVED
STATEWIDE "RESPECT NEW MEXICO" MOVEMENT UNDERWAY

We wanted to tell you about a new statewide campaign being launched to help bring a message of togetherness to the state.

It's called "Respect New Mexico," an initiative that showcases our great state and sends a strong message to Republicans, Democrats and everyone else that we must set aside labels and be proud as one state. The campaign is timely and vital as we head into the fall to decide the future direction of the Land of Enchantment.

"Respect New Mexico" is a true movement to help elect a legislature that will finally bring widespread prosperity to New Mexicans—without compromising who we are and what we love about our state. Join us.

Please click the link below and share it on social media.
Click here for the Respect New Mexico video. ([link removed])

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NEW MEXICO BALLOT ISSUE SURVEY
Did you have issues while voting in the recent Primary Election? If so, we want to know about it. Click here ([link removed]) to help us investigate any voting issues to help us in our mission of ensuring fair elections and integrity at the polls.

ORGANIZE A JULY 4 FREEDOM MARCH!

Do you want to organize a FREEDOM MARCH for your county? Let's peacefully assemble & let the world see the SPIRIT of '76 by raising our voices to honor our Forefathers and our FREEDOM, this INDEPENDENCE DAY!
Click this link to sign up now! ([link removed])
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HOST A SUMMER BBQ TO HELP PEOPLE MEET THE CANDIDATES

It is time to meet your candidates! If you would like to host a backyard BBQ this summer, for your friends, family and neighbors to meet the Republican candidates for your district, please complete this form and select the preferred date, time and location for your event. Someone will be in touch!
Click here to host a BBQ. ([link removed])

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HELP SECURE OUR ELECTIONS - JOIN OUR EDO TEAM

In these uncertain times, one thing remains clear - the security and integrity of our elections are paramount to our way of life! Volunteering for President Trump and the Republican Party during early voting on election day, or during ballot counting is a great way to ensure a fair and honest election.

Our Election Day Operation (EDO) is designed to ensure that everyone who is legally entitled to vote has the opportunity to vote, ONCE! As an EDO volunteer, you will be trained on the election laws of New Mexico. You do not have to be a lawyer, you just have to know the rules, and we will provide an organized network of assistance to all of our volunteers. Once you are trained, we will coordinate getting you credentialed to work the upcoming election.

Our goal is to cover every polling place in New Mexico with smart and trusted volunteers like you! JOIN the EDO Army For Trump NOW ([link removed]) to get started and one of our team members will contact you with more information. To expedite this process, when you sign-up please ensure your name and address match your voter registration.

Your work will truly make a difference for an honest election and to re-elect President Trump and all of our Republican candidates in New Mexico.

The Progressive Left will be up to their old tricks to stop President Trump from being re-elected! With your help, we can ensure they don't succeed!

Sincerely,
Steve Pearce

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RESERVE YOUR TRUMP 2020 SIGNS!

Trump 2020 yard signs are in, and you can reserve yours now.

Sign up today, and show your support to re-elect the President. Let everyone know that President Trump will continue to strengthen our nation and grow American pride.

To get your sign, CLICK HERE ([link removed]) , and fill out the form. We will email you when the signs are ready to be picked up at your county organization office.

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2020 CANDIDATE PROFILES
(Information from the Candidates & Campaigns)

Dinah Vargas

House District 10

Dinah Vargas announced her candidacy for the State House District 10. Vargas, a true daughter of the South Valley, is running to curb corruption in government and to end “La Movida” in New Mexico politics. Vargas is driven to bring representation back to the people of the South Valley, San Jose, South Broadway and parts of the Kirkland edition. She has unashamedly stood up for citizens’ rights and never faltered in advocating for her South Valley values of faith, family, respect, and community.

An outspoken community organizer and street journalist, Vargas has tirelessly given voice to hard-working Burqueños. She has fought on the frontlines against overreach in government projects such as the Albuquerque Rapid Transit (ART) project, which crippled local businesses, caused accidents, injury, and even death. Vargas has stood up against police brutality while proudly supporting the brave men and women in Law Enforcement who use their authority to keep the peace and make the South Valley safer. Her work has helped shine a light on those ignored by government and the establishment mainstream media.

“I am running because I love the South Valley. The South Valley and communities like the South Valley are underrepresented and underserved. I am driven to change this. The people are tired of politics as usual. We are tired of the same tactics and behaviors from our elected officials. We are tired of broken promises. We are tired of politicians promising to support family values and the improvement of life and liberty yet voting the opposite. My neighbors, my constituents, know I will fight and win for them in Santa Fe because I have been advocating for them on the frontlines for years. Together, through real action, we can take back our district and end “La Movida” in Santa Fe politics.”

Vargas has traveled extensively through New Mexico’s 33 counties, developing lasting relationships across the state. Her knowledge of the state’s issues and vast resources will help her work across the aisle to pass meaningful legislation that will make a real difference for New Mexico families and communities.

The child of generations of New Mexicans who served proudly in the U.S. Military, Vargas was educated at West Mesa High School and the University of New Mexico. She is a Catholic and believes in the sanctity of human life, the right to self-protection through the Second Amendment, and religious freedom.

dinahvargas.com

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Tom Stull

House District 28

Thomas Stull was born in Burlington, Colorado and raised in Hemingford, Nebraska. Thomas is a 30-year U.S. Air Force Veteran who began as an enlisted member; received his Commission; and retired in the grade of Colonel He served two tours of duty at Kirtland AFB; 1 in the '70s, 1 in the early 2000's. After serving in the military, Thomas was employed as a Defense Contractor. He was hired as a major program manager, and retired as the Vice President for Air Force Test & Evaluation. Thomas has lived in Albuquerque for the past 13 years.

StullForNM.com ([link removed])

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Chelsea Flanders

Senate District 16

I am a native New Mexican married to a member of the New Mexico Air National Guard, raising our three beautiful children in the Land of Enchantment. I graduated from Cibola High School, attended a trade school to become a licensed cosmetologist, and then become a small business owner in our community for 8 years. I am now running for Senate because I know and love our community, and I’m committed to make New Mexico a better place for our next generation.

ChelseaforNMsenate.com ([link removed])

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Michaela Chavez

Senate District 13

My name is Michaela Chavez. I am a proud resident of New Mexico Senate District 13, and I am running to bring your concerns to the Legislature. My husband, David, and I have been married for 16 years. We are parents to two extraordinary children. My family’s history here stretches back hundreds of years, and like many of you, we’ve worked hard for what we have. We know what it’s like to struggle to overcome obstacles. Because of this, we also know what it means to lend a helping hand in a time of need.

www.michaela4nmsenate.com ([link removed])

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Stephen Cecco

House District 19

I have lived and worked in the community for over 20 years and believe deeply in giving back to my community. I have helped folks realize the dream of home ownership and have volunteered time to better our people. I will continue that pursuit as long as I live.

www.ceccofornm.com ([link removed])

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GET YOUR PRESIDENT TRUMP GEAR!
Check out our selection of shirts at our RPNM online store. Click here. ([link removed])

Once our RPNM headquarters reopens, you can grab your MAGA gear! Shirts, hats, bumper stickers and more are also available at the Headquarters in Albuquerque. Our address is: 5150-A San Francisco NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109.

Hats and shirts are $20 each or both for $35.

You can also get your "Is This Heaven?" Trump Rally shirts at our headquarters (see below). They are $25 each.
For more information about what's happening in the Republican Party of New Mexico including news, upcoming events, videos, voter resources, information about elected officials, how to volunteer go to our website. ([link removed])

You can always contact us at (505) 298-3662

HELP US TURN NEW MEXICO RED!
DONATE TO RPNM ([link removed])


** LISTEN TO CHAIRMAN PEARCE'S WEEKLY PODCAST!
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Be sure to catch Inside New Mexico with Steve Pearce each week on your favorite podcast platform!

You can subscribe to listen and be notified when a new episode is available:
* Apple Podcasts ([link removed])
* Spotify ([link removed])
* Google Podcasts ([link removed])

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