John,
Otero County, New Mexico Commissioner Couy Griffin should be removed from office under the 14th Amendment based on his participation in the January 6 insurrection.
Yesterday, a group of New Mexico residents sued to do just that—and to bar him from holding public office in the future. CREW is serving as co-counsel in this lawsuit, which is an important step towards real accountability for the insurrection. Read more here.
As county commissioner, Griffin took an oath to “support and uphold the Constitution and laws of the State of New Mexico, and the Constitution of the United States.” When he participated in the insurrection—illegally breaching security barriers and occupying the Capitol grounds—he violated that oath, and he must be held accountable. Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, also known as the Disqualification Clause, bars anyone who has taken an oath to uphold the Constitution and who then engages in insurrection from holding state or federal office.
Griffin clearly meets that bar. He not only breached security barriers at the Capitol, but also took on a leadership position within the mob and continuously promoted the events on his social media pages. Videos show Griffin speaking through a bullhorn to the mob and spreading the false narrative that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from former President Trump. Griffin poses a threat to our democracy, and he must be removed from office. Read more about the lawsuit, and share on Facebook, Twitter, or by forwarding this email.
Accountability for the insurrection has been difficult and slow. But many, including Griffin, are facing criminal charges for their actions. The Select Committee is preparing to hold public hearings. And here at CREW, we’re using every available tool—including the Constitution—to hold people accountable.
Thank you for your support,
Noah Bookbinder
President, CREW
