New Mexico
New Mexico Bishop Defends Governor’s Controversial Gun Ban
The measure stirred immediate controversy in the state and across the nation.
Archbishop John Wester of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe in a Monday statement defended the New Mexico governor’s recent controversial executive order banning the carrying of guns in the state’s most populated county.
“I believe Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham is correct to point out the crisis we are experiencing in Albuquerque and the County of Bernalillo,” Wester said, adding that “the number of gun deaths we witness here is deplorable and tragic. I hope we can come together in New Mexico to address this issue.”
“In my view, the governor has been consistent in addressing gun safety through legislation and is not now attacking the Second Amendment,” Archbishop Wester went on. “She knows the law. Rather, I believe she is trying to get us to solve what has become a crisis in our state.”
“I do not see the governor’s call to action and discernment as a threat to the Constitution,” Archbishop Wester said. “The focus should be on the sanctity of human life. That is the point.”
The order, issued by Lujan Grisham on Sept. 7, temporarily suspends the right of citizens to bear arms in public in Bernalillo County, home to New Mexico’s largest city, Albuquerque.
Lujan Grisham issued the order following the deaths by shootings of several Albuquerque children in recent months. The order suspended the carrying of guns by citizens for 30 days and was given on the grounds that gun violence in the state constitutes a “public health emergency.”
The public health order issued by Patrick Allen, secretary of the New Mexico Department of Health, in conjunction with the governor’s office stated that “no person, other than a law enforcement officer or licensed security officer, shall possess a firearm … either openly or concealed, within cities or counties averaging 1,000 or more violent crimes per 100,000 residents per year.”
In his official statement, the public health secretary said that “temporary firearm restrictions, drug monitoring, and other public safety measures are necessary to address the current public health emergencies.”
The measure stirred immediate controversy in the state and across the nation.
New Mexico citizens have held several protests in the streets of Albuquerque in which they openly carried pistols and various types of rifles.
The Albuquerque mayor and police chief have signaled that they will not enforce the gun ban and that they will leave it to state authorities to do so.
Shortly following the release of the order, Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen said that though “every lost life is a tragedy, and the well-being of our community is of paramount concern to the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office” the temporary ban “challenges the foundation of our Constitution.”
In a Monday press conference, Sheriff Allen said he believes the order is “unconstitutional” and that “in reference to concealed carry and open carry,” the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Department “will not enforce this segment of the order.”
Responding to the criticism, Lujan Grisham said during a Friday press conference that if there is an emergency, “no constitutional right, in my view, is intended to be absolute.”
Despite the county police department’s refusal to enforce the order, Source New Mexico reported that Lujan Grisham is planning to find other ways to enforce her measure.
“The order is being enforced, and citations will be forthcoming from the state police,” Caroline Sweeney, a spokesperson for Lujan Grisham’s office, was reported saying on Monday.
The office added that they would not be providing additional details “to ensure officer safety.”
Archbishop Wester is the only Catholic prelate to have weighed in on the controversy thus far.
In the past, both the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and Pope Francis have advocated for stricter gun control laws.
Following the deadly 2021 shooting in Uvalde, Texas, Pope Francis said that “it is time to say ‘enough’ to the indiscriminate trafficking of weapons” and called for “all [to] make a commitment so that tragedies like this cannot happen again.”
“I hope to hear more of an outcry over an 11-year-old boy killed by a bullet fired in a road rage incident than over the right to carry a gun,” Archbishop Wester said in his release.
The Santa Fe bishop concluded his statement by calling on the faithful in his diocese and across the whole Church “to keep the victims of gun violence in your prayers so that we might take steps to solve the tragedy of gun violence in our society.”
New Mexico
Playoff-Race closing: New Mexico United takes on Colorado Springs Switchbacks – New Mexico United
New Mexico United travels to Colorado Springs this Wednesday for a Western Conference showdown in the USL Championship playoff race.
The Black & Yellow currently sit fifth in the USL Championship, fighting for the postseason and will look to keep building momentum as the regular season winds down. With a few matches remaining, every point matters, and United will aim to deliver a strong midweek performance on the road.
Wednesday’s contest will be the third meeting between United and the Switchbacks FC this year. In their previous two encounters, United secured a home victory in June during the Jagermeister cup, and drew in the first encounter in June. This clash gives United a chance to claim the season series and strengthen their hold on a playoff spot.
Standout Performers: Archimède and Keller
Forward Luther Archimède continues to be a spark for United’s attack, bringing energy, pace, and aerial ability. His late equalizing goal against Monterey Bay highlighted his gift for delivering in clutch moments. The sixth man has contributed two goals in six games off the bench, proving his talent.
Defender Kipp Keller has been a rock at the back for United since arriving, with his calm composure, strength, and sharp defensive instincts. His leadership on the backline and ability to read the game have been crucial in keeping opponents on their toes. His presence will be needed to keep Colorado’s attackers in check.
Milestones in Sight: Tambakis
Goalkeeper Alex Tambakis is on the verge of making USL Championship history, needing just one more clean sheet to become the league’s all-time leader. After recording his 58th career shutout recently—tying the current record held by Evan Newton—Tambakis will have the opportunity to stand alone at the top when United takes the field Wednesday night in Colorado.
About Colorado Springs
The Switchbacks have fought their way into playoff contention with their mix of grit and attacking ability. On the Attacking side Marco Micaletto has been getting it done, leading the team in goals with six. On the back line, Matthew Mahoney provides a physical and clinical presence, leading the Switchbacks in almost every defensive category this season.
Looking Ahead
Following Wednesday’s trip to Colorado, New Mexico United return home hosting Lexington SC on Sunday at 4 PM MT. With the postseason right around the corner, the Black & Yellow remain focused on collecting crucial points and carrying the momentum into October.
Get tickets HERE
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