New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, has come under fire from Republican leaders for introducing a series of gun control proposals. These measures, part of what she describes as “the largest and most comprehensive public safety package in our state’s history,” include extending the background check waiting period to 14 days for gun purchases, banning firearms in polling places and parks, and setting a minimum age of 21 for buying semiautomatic firearms.
Additionally, the proposed Firearm Industry Accountability Act seeks to amend state law to hold gun manufacturers accountable for deceptive trade practices. Grisham addressed the complexity of constitutional questions surrounding gun violence at a press conference, suggesting that New Mexico’s efforts could lead other states to create similar public safety measures.
State Senator Greg Baca, the Republican minority floor leader, accused Grisham of taking a hyper-partisan approach and said Senate Republicans are ready to work on tackling the state’s crime problem with commonsense solutions. He criticized the announced anti-Second Amendment measures as targeting New Mexico gun owners who seek to protect themselves and their families.
Steve Pearce, chairman of the Republican Party of New Mexico, echoed Baca’s sentiments, calling the Democrats’
proposals an egregious attack on New Mexicans’ Second Amendment rights. Pearce argued that if the governor is genuinely committed to community safety, she should focus on tougher penalties for criminals, support for law enforcement, and keeping criminals behind bars, rather than infringing on the rights of law-abiding citizens. He emphasized that Republicans would introduce bills that toughen criminal laws without violating the rights of citizens.
The Republican Party of New Mexico plans to introduce multiple bills during the legislative session aimed at strengthening criminal penalties without undermining the constitutional rights of New Mexicans.
Governor Grisham’s office has been contacted for comments on the criticism. The proposed gun control measures have sparked a debate in New Mexico, highlighting the ongoing national conversation about gun rights, public safety, and the balance between the two.