I am writing today to announce the closure of the New Mexico Independent. After three and a half years of operation in New Mexico, the board of the American Independent News Network, has decided to shift publication of its news…
While environmental activists played their part yesterday during demonstrations at the capitol building, going so far as to dress up as solar panels and to sing the tune of “You Are My Sunshine,” their counterparts, the anti-cap-and-trade contingency who has…
Roughly one quarter of University of New Mexico students are unimpressed with the state’s flagship public school, according to a survey that questioned college students about their higher education experiences.
Incumbent Albuquerque Mayor Marty Chavez scooped up another union endorsement yesterday in his quest for a fourth term.
The Albuquerque Police Officer’s Association (APOA) announced its endorsement yesterday, at an event with the mayor and in a radio ad they aired on KKOB 770 AM. You can hear an audio clip of the radio spot on Chavez’s Web site.
According to KKOB political reporter Peter St. Cyr, APOA President Joey Sigala said the mayor has a record that is unmatched, and proven, when it comes to being tough on crime.
“He’s a strong leader with a vision for our future,” Sigala said.
In return, Chavez said he had the APD’s back, and was glad the sentiment was returned.
St. Cyr has audio of the announcement on his blog, as well as two audio clips of reaction to the endorsement by Chavez’s two challengers — ex-state Senate leader Richard Romero and current state Rep. Richard Berry.
Berry said he didn’t have an opportunity to speak with the union before they made the endorsement, but is confident he enjoys the support of a large portion of the APD rank and file.
Romero said the endorsement reflects the leadership of the union rewarding Chavez for a large pay raise the mayor gave the union, and that it’s “machine politics” in action.
However, Stuart Dyson of KOB Channel 4 reported that the union denied the endorsement was due to big pay raises and better benefits.
