Congress Condemns NM Gov. for Unconstitutional 2A Order

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman August Pfluger joined Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) in introducing a House Resolution to condemn New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for her “emergency public health order” that prohibits the open and concealed carry of firearms in Albuquerque and its surrounding county, including city sidewalks and parks. Violators of this order may face civil penalties and fines up to $5,000. This order is a direct attack on New Mexicans’ Second Amendment right, and the resolution is a formal condemnation from U.S. Congress.

“House Republicans have a message for the Governor: The Constitution is absolute,” said Rep. August Pfluger. “Our resolution makes it clear to the Governor that her executive powers cannot override the Constitution of the United States or the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding Americans.”

“The shocking move from Governor Grisham is a blatant subversion of the U.S. Constitution and a violation of her oath of office while she deprives the citizens of New Mexico of their right to bear arms. The Governor’s action should send a chill up every American’s spine as it strips away the protection of individual rights and freedom, which sets a dangerous precedent for the rights of Central Washingtonians and Americans across our nation,” said Rep. Newhouse. “I’m proud to lead this resolution to condemn the Governor's actions and I call on her to rescind her order immediately.”

“The order is Constitutionally baseless, and there are no laws or regulations giving the state’s Regulation and Licensing Department authority to inspect federally licensed firearm retailers,” said National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) Senior Vice President and General Counsel Lawrence Keane. “By falsely declaring a rise in crime as a public health emergency and suspending the rights of the law-abiding people of New Mexico, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham is proving her contempt for the U.S. Bill of Rights, New Mexico's Constitution, her oath of office and the voters of New Mexico. NSSF appreciates Congressman Newhouse’s leadership in pushing back against this blatant and unconstitutional power grab and joins him in this fight."