The National Rifle Association (NRA) has strongly criticized Democratic New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for temporarily suspending open and concealed carry laws in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County under an emergency public health order. The NRA argues that this move infringes upon Second Amendment rights and that the governor should instead focus on addressing crime by eliminating “soft-on-criminal policies.”
Governor Lujan Grisham’s decision to suspend these laws for at least 30 days comes in response to recent fatal shootings, including the tragic deaths of a 13-year-old girl in July, a five-year-old girl in August, and an 11-year-old boy this month. The governor stated that when people are afraid to be in crowds or go about their daily lives due to the prospect of violence, something is fundamentally wrong.
In a press conference, Governor Lujan Grisham made controversial remarks, stating that no constitutional right is “absolute” and suggesting that restrictions can be placed on rights in emergencies. She also acknowledged that criminals may not comply with her orders but argued that it sends a message to the community to report crimes and assist law enforcement.
The NRA and other gun rights groups have strongly opposed this move, with the NRA pointing out that the New Mexico Bill of Rights protects the right to keep and bear arms for various lawful purposes, including security and defense. The NRA also highlighted that New Mexico residents can sue for damages if their rights are violated under the state’s bill of rights.
The governor’s decision has already led to a lawsuit filed by the National Association for Gun Rights and a resident, alleging violations of their Second Amendment rights. Gun rights advocates argue that the order punishes law-abiding gun owners while criminals continue to disregard the law.
The controversy underscores the ongoing debate over the balance between individual rights and public safety, particularly in the context of gun control measures during emergencies.