Redistricting Reaction, Downtown ABQ Stadium Vote & COVID Relief Funds Squabble | 10.22.21

New Mexico in Focus (A Production of NMPBS)

The Citizen Redistricting Committee has wrapped up its work and the focus now shifts to the state legislature. The Committee approved a series of maps for lawmakers to consider on how to redraw election districts for the next ten years. That decision will likely happen sometime in December. Much of the conversation among the Redistricting Committee focused on communities of interest and how the new maps should represent those communities. Correspondent Gwyneth Doland sits down with representatives from the Native American and Black communities to get their reactions to the work of the Committee and what happens next.

The Line opinion panel also discusses the recent work of New Mexico’s Independent Redistricting Committee. The group has endorsed new maps to send to the state legislature for final approval, but with no obligation attached, will lawmakers give full consideration to the suggestions or simply go their own way? Our panelists give their take and weigh in on the possibility of an Albuquerque neighborhood joining the state’s southern congressional district.

Residents in two downtown Albuquerque neighborhoods share their thoughts on the possibility of a new soccer stadium coming into their area. They tell us their concerns, their frustrations with the process and the possibilities the project could bring new dialogue with the city. The Line opinion panel also talks about the Bond Proposal to build a new soccer stadium in the city of Albuquerque. Panelists discuss the apprehensions of residents, the potential benefits for the city’s downtown area and the breaking news that there are inaccuracies in the actual ballot wording.

The Line opinion panel shares legal perspective on the Governor’s power to unilaterally allocate federal COVID-19 relief funds. The state Treasurer says the Governor must consult the Legislature, but the Governor’s Office says legal precedent is on its side. A related case is headed to the courts in just a matter of day, but how will it be decided, and what will the lasting impacts of that decision be?

Line Opinion Panelists:

Dede Feldman, former state senator

Dan Foley, former NM House minority whip

Serge Martinez, UNM Law School

Guests:

Keegan King, All Pueblo Council of Governors’ ad hoc redistricting committee

Mason Graham, New Mexico Black Voters Collaborative

Anna Lee Besaulniers, stop the stadium campaign organizer

Frances Armijo, President, South Broadway Neighborhood Association

Lisa Padilla, President, Barelas Neighborhood Association

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