POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE FILES ETHICS COMPLAINTS OVER SOLICITATION VIOLATIONS
| Albuquerque, December 8—A half dozen progressive Democratic legislators at the Roundhouse have broken the law while attending the current Special Session in Santa Fe. Like Gov. Lujan Grisham, these lawmakers think they are untouchable when it comes to violating established state rules and regulations. New Mexico political action committee “Stop MLG” has filed ethics complaints with the Secretary of State’s Office and the State Ethics Commission against the six lawmakers for actively soliciting campaign donations while in Special Session. State law clearly states that no political candidate or lawmaker may ask for campaign funds during a Special Session. The lawmakers broke this campaign finance law by continuing to solicit donations online. “This culture of Democrat corruption and breaking the rules has to stop,” said RPNM Chairman Steve Pearce. “Democrats seem to be following the Governor’s lead that it’s okay to skirt or break the law. They believe no one will hold them accountable because they are in control. Being in the majority doesn’t allow you to do whatever you want. There are rules and laws, and lawmakers must abide by them.” All candidates and state lawmakers were clearly notified of the policy before the Session by the Secretary of State’s Office. The Democratic lawmakers who cheated are Rep. Antonio Maestas, Rep. Roger E. Montoya, Rep. Susan K. Herrera, Rep. Joanne J. Ferrary, Rep. Micaela Lara Cadena and Rep. Daymon Ely. Brett Kokinadis, 1st Vice Chair of the Republican Party of Santa Fe, filed the ethics complaints on behalf of “Stop MLG.” He said as soon as they were filed, the “Donate” button on the lawmakers’ websites were suddenly disabled. Still, the word “Donate” remained visible on their websites, implying they are accepting donations. Other lawmakers had removed “Donate” buttons, complying with the law. “It’s ironic that these lawmakers are working to create laws meaningful to New Mexican families, workers, children, and small businesses, while they break existing ones,” said Kokinadis. “This kind of behavior must be called out, and these lawmakers must face the consequences. It’s clear that Progressives are having an equally difficult time as our Governor following existing laws. This is shameful behavior, and the state must take action.” |
| 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. |
