Staff Reports
In a recent move that has sparked controversy, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico, a Democrat, has imposed a 30-day ban on concealed and open carry of firearms in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County under the guise of an “emergency public health order.” This order has not only faced pushback from Republicans but has also divided Democrats. Even members of her own party, including Democratic state legislators, Bernalillo County Sheriff John D. Allen, and New Mexico’s Attorney General Raúl Torrez, have refused to defend the governor’s unconstitutional order.
Republican state legislators, such as state Rep. John Block and state Rep. Stefani Lord, have taken the lead in challenging Governor Grisham’s ban. Block noted that even though Democrats control the state legislature, the lack of support from members of her own party demonstrates that her grip on power is slipping. He suggested that “Democrats would rather have their political futures last than go down with the Lujan Grisham sinking ship.” This disagreement within the Democratic party has opened the door for possible impeachment proceedings against the governor.
Republicans in the state Senate, led by Republican Leader Gregory Baca, also agree that Grisham’s order is in violation of the state and federal constitutions. They are exploring all options to hold her accountable for this unconstitutional act. The governor’s claim that “no constitutional right, in my view, including my oath, is intended to be absolute” has further fueled the opposition to her gun ban.
We welcome meaningful solutions and additional resources to fight crime in Albuquerque. APD is not responsible for enforcing the governor's ban, our officers will continue to enforce all criminal laws, combat gun violence, and push for needed justice in our city. https://t.co/PT1l3o2kcA
— Mayor Tim Keller (@MayorKeller) September 9, 2023
Legal experts, such as law professor Jonathan Turley, have weighed in on the constitutionality of the order. Turley argues that the short 30-day period set by the governor makes it difficult for a final decision to be reached, potentially preventing the case from being taken to the Supreme Court. However, Turley believes that challengers could argue that the matter is not moot since the ban is likely to be repeated in the future. He concludes that the order is undoubtedly unconstitutional.
Block believes that Grisham has overplayed her hand with this order and suggests that her actions may be motivated by her desire to secure a high-ranking position in Joe Biden’s cabinet if he wins the presidency in 2024. He predicts that Biden would distance himself from Grisham because he wants to appear as someone who respects the Constitution. Block sees the impeachment of Governor Lujan Grisham as a test of how far the Radical Left can go in infringing on citizens’ rights.
It is clear that Governor Grisham is feeling the pressure as she engages in a public feud with Republican legislators. Block asserts that the governor is “cornered, and she knows it,” and expects her to be impeached. He also points out the irony of Grisham claiming that her ban will prevent violent crime while acknowledging that she expects criminals to disregard the order. This inconsistency in her logic has angered both lawmakers and citizens alike, including Elon Musk, who publicly expressed his desire to see her removed from office.
