Commentary: New Mexico - Today, New Mexico’s rank in child well-being revealed a dramatic contrast between the failure of Republican policies and success of Democratic initiatives.
Democratic Party of New Mexico Chair Richard Ellenberg highlighted the stark difference between the policies saying, “Democrats believe that New Mexicans are resilient and powerful, and we can work to increase opportunities and improve the quality of life for everyone. This report makes it clear that Democratic policies improve the lives of our children and have a positive impact on New Mexico families; where as, Republican policies in education have kept our state at the bottom. The contrast couldn't be more clear.”
According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s Kids Count Data Book, New Mexico remains dead last in education—an area the Martinez-Sanchez administration has taken steps to privatize, increase testing and push teachers out of the profession. On the other hand, child health has seen significant gains—largely due to greater access to health services through the Affordable Care Act.