Staff Reports
In a recent interview on CNN This Morning, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham faced tough questions about her temporary gun ban. When pressed about the constitutionality of her order, Lujan Grisham insinuated that she has the sole power to determine what is or is not constitutional. This assertion has drawn criticism from law enforcement in the state’s largest county, as well as from fellow Democrats.
CNN host Poppy Harlow challenged Lujan Grisham, calling her decision “unconstitutional.” Harlow pointed out that the sheriff and attorney general, among others, have refused to enforce the ban. She asked, “Why do it if it can’t be enforced?” The governor responded dismissively, stating that those who disagree with her order lack bold actions and plans for reducing gun violence.
"You just heard from the sheriff. He joins the attorney general and others who say they won't enforce [a unilateral gun ban]. It's unconstitutional. Why do it if it can't be enforced?"
New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham: "Well that's their opinion" pic.twitter.com/YW7dxL61NU
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) September 12, 2023
Harlow continued to press Lujan Grisham on the constitutionality of her gun ban, pointing out that she is an attorney. The governor hesitated for a moment before saying, “Well, we’re gonna see. I mean look, I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t think I have the right. I have the right.” However, when asked where this right is found, Lujan Grisham tried to reframe her order as a “pause” on carrying firearms rather than a ban.
Unsurprisingly, Lujan Grisham’s “pause” on gun ownership has faced widespread condemnation from across the political spectrum. Even far-left U.S. Representative Ted Lieu (R-CA) and anti-gun activist David Hogg have criticized the governor. Furthermore, gun owners in New Mexico have openly defied the order, choosing to hold large open carry rallies instead.
It is clear that Governor Lujan Grisham’s attempt to infringe on gun rights is facing scrutiny from both sides. Her claims of having the power to arbitrarily determine constitutionality are concerning and indicative of a dangerous overreach of power. The people of New Mexico deserve leaders who respect their fundamental rights, rather than those who attempt to strip them away with questionable executive orders.
