Commentary: At a press conference in Albuquerque Civic Plaza today, Democrats addressed Donald Trump’s planned rally in Albuquerque—the message was loud and clear Trump’s racist rhetoric and divisive policies are not welcome in New Mexico. Speakers at the press conference outlined the many reasons why Trump’s rhetoric is out of step with New Mexico values.
Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, announced last week that he would hold a rally in Albuquerque.
The New Mexico GOP announced their support for Donald Trump shortly after Ted Cruz left the race. Governor Susana Martinez, the highest ranking Republican official in New Mexico continues to avoid questions on Trump.
Press conference speakers included DPNM Chairwoman Debra Haaland, New Mexico Representative Antonio Maestas (D-Dist. 11), candidate for New Mexico House District 23 Daymon Ely, DPNM Native American Caucus Chair Rachael Lorenzo, Young Democrats of New Mexico Secretary Taylor Bui, and DPNM Vice-Chair Juan Sanchez III.
A quote from each speaker is below:
“Donald Trump’s statements about women, about minorities, about immigrants in our great country have no place in New Mexico politics,” said Debra Haaland, Chairwoman of the Democratic Party of New Mexico.
“Trump’s rhetoric contradicts everything we stand for as New Mexicans,” New Mexico Representative Antonio Maestas addressing Trump's harmful attitudes toward our Hispanic communities.
"Trump's wall is designed to push people apart rather than bringing them together. In New Mexico, we build bridges, not walls. His economic plan will have a devastating effect on rebuilding the Camino Real and will cost us good jobs and needed revenue,” said Daymon Ely, candidate for New Mexico House District 23.
“Trump does not have the experience, awareness, or respect to address the government to government relationship tribes nationwide require,” said Rachael Lorenzo, Chairwoman of the Democratic Party of New Mexico Native American Caucus.
“Mr. Trump’s policies seriously jeopardize our future and the future of all young people. He has given us no insight on any plans to invest in higher education and make it easier for students to receive an education. Trump would make it harder, especially for those who need it most,” said Taylor Bui, Secretary of the Young Democrats of Mexico.
“We as Democrats are focused on embracing our diversity, which makes our country and our state great,” said Juan Sanchez III, Vice-Chair of the Democratic Party of New Mexico.