As recently as 2018, New Mexico was considered a purple state, even though the New Mexico legislature has historically leaned Democrat. However, New Mexico has witnessed a hard pivot to the far left over the last several years as the legislature has transformed from a moderate body, responsive to their constituents, to a body intent on implementing an extreme progressive agenda, ignoring input from the people. This recent shift has come with a high cost, as New Mexico was named the most violent state to live in by Forbes Advisor. read on.
Part 1: The resignation of Judge Mark Standridge from the 3rd Judicial District reveals a troubling oversight in nepotism rules and electoral processes.
The resignation of Judge Mark Standridge on November 15, 2023 casts a revealing light on systemic issues within the 3rd Judicial District, spotlighting lapses in the application of nepotism laws and election oversight. This investigation explores the deeper implications of governance and accountability that affect public trust in our judicial system.
Third District Court, Las Cruces: Shifting Landscape Amidst New Appointment’s History of Political Activism.
The Third Judicial District Court of Dona Ana County continues to face scrutiny, not only from the Supreme Court, but also from observers, due to inadequate vetting of past judicial appointments. This lack of thorough vetting ultimately led to Judge Mark Standridge’s resignation from his seat amid accusations of nepotism, an issue previously reported by the Estancia News. Further investigation into the background of Standridge’s replacement, Rebecca Duffin, reveals a history of partisan activism, raising serious questions about whether the Judicial Nominating Commission is truly committed to protecting the integrity of the bench by selecting qualified, impartial candidates.
Elections have Consequences
This series has covered evidence of deep corruption in New Mexico’s judiciary: From nepotism to the radical organization “Emerge” seeking to undermine the independence and fairness of New Mexico’s Judiciary. We have covered how the makeup of the judiciary is heavily skewed toward Democrats, and out of proportion with the actual political makeup of the state. In fact, 28 judges have been placed on New Mexico’s highest benches by an organization whose goal is to use judges to affect policy, not just to interpret the law.