url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-nm-delegation-secure-key-funding-rebuild-roads-outside-wipp-carlsbad,"Vasquez, NM Delegation Secure Key Funding to Rebuild Roads Outside of WIPP in Carlsbad",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Thursday, September 24, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) secured $10 million in federal funding to repair the US 285 Relief Route, a critical road for freight trucks transporting nuclear materials to the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) near Carlsbad. The New Mexican delegation, along with the New Mexico Governor’s Office, worked closely to ensure that the federal government fulfilled its promises related to this project.

“WIPP serves a critical role for nuclear waste storage in our state and for our nation,"" said Vasquez. ""This funding is much needed to ensure the safety and improvement of transportation of volatile materials to the facility. We cannot accept any shortcuts or funding shortfalls with a mission this sensitive, and this important. I am proud to have secured this funding working with Senator Heinrich despite the ongoing challenges releasing these funds from the Department of Energy.”

“Last appropriations cycle, I fought like hell to secure this funding – to get New Mexico more of the funding we deserve for our role in maintaining the nation’s only deep geologic repository for radioactive defense waste. I am extremely proud to have succeeded in delivering this $10 million to help rebuild the roads to, from, and around WIPP and strengthen the infrastructure that workers and the Carlsbad community rely on every day,” said Heinrich. “But our work isn’t done. I’ll keep fighting to increase the federal government’s support of road and infrastructure improvements in New Mexico, including through my WIPP Economic Assistance Assurance Act.”

“WIPP is critical to our national security, and it is vital that we have the infrastructure needed to support its operations and safely manage the disposal of nuclear waste,” said Luján. “I’m proud to have worked to bring this $10 million in federal funding home to rebuild the roads around WIPP that workers and the Carlsbad community rely on. I look forward to continuing my work to deliver for communities in every corner of New Mexico.”

WIPP, located near Carlsbad, New Mexico, is the nation’s only deep geologic repository for the disposal of transuranic waste generated by the United States’ nuclear weapons program. Since opening in 1999, WIPP has played a critical role in supporting the national defense mission by managing legacy nuclear materials and supporting national security-related cleanup efforts across the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

In 2025, Rep. Vasquez’s proactive and vocal efforts working alongside local stakeholders prevented the federal government from closing WIPP and leaving New Mexico without a key nuclear waste treatment plant.

###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-vasquez-nunn-introduce-bipartisan-beef-act-protect-american-ranchers-and,"Reps. Vasquez, Nunn Introduce Bipartisan BEEF Act to Protect American Ranchers and Lower Beef Prices",2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) and U.S. Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) introduced the BEEF (Banning External Entry of Foreign Beef) Act, legislation to stop the Administration’s latest expansion of foreign beef imports and advance a long-term strategy to rebuild the American cattle herd, strengthen domestic beef production, and lower costs for consumers.

This bill is in response to the Administration’s announcement that it would import an additional 300,000 metric tons of foreign lean beef trimmings into the United States, hurting ranchers and raising prices for consumers. Vasquez has repeatedly opposed efforts by both Democratic and Republican administrations to increase foreign beef imports at the expense of American cattle producers.

“If we want more affordable beef, the answer is to grow American production, strengthen competition, and make it easier for the next generation of ranchers to stay in business – not make our country more dependent on un-vetted foreign imports,” said Vasquez. “Cattlegrowers in New Mexico and across the nation have made it clear – they want to reverse the President’s foreign beef imports and they need more time, and more tools, to grow their herds and fix the domestic supply chain. My bipartisan BEEF Act does just that, and I hope that my colleagues from both sides of the aisle can join me in supporting American cattlegrowers and this commonsense proposal.”

“Lowering beef prices for Iowa families and supporting our cattle producers should go hand-in-hand,” said Nunn. “If we want more affordable beef for the long term, we need more American beef being raised and produced here at home. After years of a shrinking cattle herd, that means giving our producers the stability and confidence to invest, rebuild, and grow. Our bipartisan bill puts producers at the table to develop a long-term plan to increase our domestic beef supply, while giving Congress a say before future decisions are made to expand foreign imports.”

The BEEF Act would:

Suspend the Administration’s latest expansion of foreign beef imports.

Require congressional approval before future presidential actions expanding beef imports can take effect.

Establish a four-year Beef Import and Domestic Supply Advisory Board within USDA and direct it to develop strategies to rebuild the American cattle herd and increase domestic beef production.

Advance policies to expand domestic processing capacity, improve livestock market competition, and lower beef costs for American families over the long term.

Rep. Vasquez has long been an ardent supporter of New Mexico’s ranchers and cattle growers. Some of his recent work to support them includes:

In June, he introduced the Protecting America’s Herds Act, an innovative, bipartisan solution to combat the spread of the New World Screwworm parasite, herd loss, and a jump in beef prices.

He was also integral in securing the necessary funding to build a sterile fly production and dispersal facility through the STOP Screwworms Act, legislation that required the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a New World Screwworm fly rearing facility to combat the spread of Screwworms.

On March 3, 2026, Rep. Vasquez secured unanimous, bipartisan support in the House Agriculture Committee for his Farm Bill amendment condemning the Administration’s push to prioritize Argentinian beef imports at the expense of our American cattle ranchers. The amendment ultimately passed out of the House in the Farm Bill.

In 2024, Vasquez adamantly opposed the Biden administration’s push to import beef from Paraguay. No matter the political party, Rep. Vasquez is fully committed to fighting for American ranchers.

###",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=663,"Leger Fernández Calls for Pause on Data Center Development, Unveils “No Blank Checks for Data Centers” Principles",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SANTA FE, NM — Today, Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) unveiled her No Blank Checks for Data Centers Principles, a set of clear standards to protect New Mexico families, water, land, and local communities as companies seek to build massive data centers across the state. The Congresswoman called for a moratorium on new data center development in New Mexico until companies meet the principles she laid out.

“The role of government is to protect us from greedy corporations,” said Congresswoman Leger Fernández. ""Data centers want our water, our land, and our power. Communities may want the jobs they could bring to New Mexico. But we will not give them a blank check. I will only support data centers that pay their own way, protect our precious water, create good-paying union jobs, use clean energy, and earn the support of the communities where they want to build. Data centers must work for New Mexico, not the other way around. Communities must know how much water and electricity these projects will use, who will pay for them, and what residents will receive in return. If a project cannot answer those questions, it should not move forward. Congress must act to regulate data centers with these principles in mind. We cannot let AI and data centers regulate themselves.”

The Congresswoman’s platform requires data centers to meet six principles:

No Blank Checks for Data Centers Principles

Don’t hike up electric bills. Data centers must pay for their own electricity and infrastructure without passing their costs on to New Mexico families.

Don’t negatively impact water resources in the area.

Use energy sources that meet New Mexico’s renewable energy and zero-carbon requirements.

Create good-paying union jobs.

Get community approval and do consultation before permitting and building.

No taxpayer subsidies, projects must provide community benefits.

“Our water. Our land. Our power. Our say,” said Leger Fernández. “Those are New Mexico’s terms.”

Leger Fernández also linked her data center standards to a broader call for federal oversight of artificial intelligence. In a post earlier this week, she said:

“Trump called AI concerns “a HOAX.” He said opponents of data centers “want to end up being backwards and poor.” No, Mr. President, Americans want Congress and you to do your job protecting humanity, protecting our utility bills, and protecting us from out-of-control, corrupt greed.

A principal role of government is to protect the American people. Safety must always be our first mandate. It is also the government’s job to protect the American people from unmitigated greed. The billionaires that you are listening to now would prefer the government stay on the sidelines. But the U.S. government knows how to regulate corporate greed and how to address new technologies that could destroy our world.

What we do now will matter. We cannot just let AI and data centers regulate themselves or depend on their goodwill to lower utility costs and limit the most destructive possibilities inherent in this rapidly evolving technology. We must let local communities have a say in what is built in their neighborhoods so they can protect their water, environment, and cost burdens.

But Congress must act. There must be a strong, enforceable national regulatory framework. We must have civil and criminal liability. We must protect the local and national financial interests of working families.

It is not a hoax, Mr. President. And we have a job to do.”",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-secures-critical-resources-new-mexico-water-infrastructure,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Secures Critical Resources for New Mexico Water Infrastructure in House-Passed Bill,2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"September 24, 2026

Vasquez delivers major wins for water security, wildfire recovery, flood protection and the Rio Grande

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) helped pass the Water Resources Development Act of 2026, securing up to $50 million in new water infrastructure authorizations for communities in New Mexico focused on drought and wildfire recovery, flood protection and the long-term health of the Rio Grande.

“I fought to put New Mexico front and center in this bill, and I’m proud to have delivered,” said Vasquez. “This bill provides up to $50 million for local water infrastructure to protect the Rio Grande and help communities recover from wildfires – critical wins for New Mexicans as we face a dire water shortage.”

The Water Resources Development Act, known as WRDA, authorizes water infrastructure projects, studies and policies carried out by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This year, Vasquez pushed to make sure New Mexico’s unique water challenges were reflected in a bill that shapes water policy across the country.

Rep. Vasquez secured the following wins for New Mexico:

$25 million for Doña Ana County water infrastructure: Vasquez secured a $25 million authorization for water infrastructure in Doña Ana County, including water supply and desalination projects. This creates a major new federal opportunity to strengthen the region’s water supply and put brackish groundwater to productive use.

$25 million for Valencia County water infrastructure: Vasquez secured a $25 million authorization for water and wastewater infrastructure in Valencia County, including stormwater management. The provision will help communities tackle flooding, improve water systems and build more resilient infrastructure.

Major modernization of the Rio Grande Environmental Management Program: Vasquez secured an expansion of the program to support projects addressing drought, wildfire and flood resilience, fish and wildlife habitat, sedimentation and salinity, water infrastructure, and invasive species. WRDA authorizes $20 million annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2030 and strengthens reporting and long-term planning for the Rio Grande.

Post-fire watershed assessments across New Mexico: Vasquez secured post-disaster watershed assessments covering areas impacted by the Buck, Trout, Cotton, South Fork and Salt Fires in Catron, Grant and Valencia Counties and near Ruidoso. These assessments can help identify long-term watershed restoration and flood-risk reduction projects needed to protect communities recovering from devastating wildfires.

Greater scrutiny of large new water users: Vasquez pushed for greater federal scrutiny of the enormous water demands that can come with new data centers, and WRDA requires the Army Corps to examine how new commercial and industrial water users affect federal water supply and water conservation projects. The provision provides a new tool for understanding how major new developments could put additional pressure on limited water resources.

New Rio Grande Basin water supply study: Vasquez secured a new Army Corps feasibility study focused on water supply and ecosystem restoration across the Rio Grande Basin in New Mexico. WRDA also adds the Middle Rio Grande to federal watershed assessments that examine future municipal, domestic, industrial, and agricultural water needs. This is especially important as New Mexico tries to meet its water compact obligations to Texas.

New tools to protect the Rio Grande: Vasquez secured the addition of the Middle Rio Grande to the Army Corps’ watershed assessment program, advancing efforts to improve the health and long-term resilience of the river. WRDA also expands drought-resiliency tools to address harmful nonnative riparian species such as salt cedar and restore native vegetation.

Federal action along the Rio Chama: Vasquez, along with the New Mexico delegation, secured language directing the Army Corps to expedite environmental and drought-resiliency project modifications along the Rio Chama and Rio Grande between Abiquiu and Cochiti Reservoirs. The provision advances his push for stronger federal management of this critical stretch of New Mexico’s river system.

This bill is supported by the American Farm Bureau Federation, American Iron and Steel Institute, American Public Works Association, American Rivers, American Road & Transportation Builders Association, American Society of Civil Engineers, American Society of Landscape Architects, Association of Equipment Manufacturers, National Association of Counties, National Association of Flood & Stormwater Management Agencies, National Association of Manufacturers, National League of Cities, National Parks Conservation Association, National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association, National Utility Contractors Association, National Water Resources Association, National Water Supply Alliance, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and many others.

###

Issues:Environment & Conservation",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-demands-answers-over-reported-delays-critical-new-world,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Demands Answers Over Reported Delays to Critical New World Screwworm Facility,2026-09-22,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 22, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led nine of his House colleagues in demanding answers from U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins following reports that USDA delayed construction of a critical New World Screwworm (NWS) containment facility in order to pursue a proposal from a politically connected contractor.

The lawmakers’ demand comes as the threat of NWS continues in New Mexico. Last week, officials confirmed the state’s second case of New World screwworm. New Mexico’s first case was detected in June.

“NWS is not an abstract threat. Every day lost preparing our defenses puts American cattle producers, rural communities, and our food supply at greater risk,” wrote Vasquez. “Ranchers should not have to pay the price for a federal contracting process influenced by political connections instead of experience, science, and the ability to get the job done.”

“The federal government has a responsibility to move quickly when the livelihoods of American ranchers and the security of our food supply are at stake,” continued Vasquez. “It also has a responsibility to ensure contracts are awarded based on qualifications, value to taxpayers, and the ability to deliver, not political connections.”

According to reports, USDA spent approximately six months considering a proposal from a firm with no significant biocontainment experience that has political ties to the Trump Administration. After it was determined that the politically-connected firm could not complete the project within its underbid budget and timeline, USDA then spent several additional months reviewing proposals before moving forward with another contractor for a facility now estimated to cost approximately $750 million.

Vasquez and his colleagues are asking USDA to:

Explain when officials became aware of the contractor’s political connections and lack of biocontainment experience;

Share the research that was conducted on the proposal;

Explain why the Department continued considering the contractor for approximately six months;

How much the process delayed construction on the key facility to stop the spread of NWS and what effect that delay has had on USDA’s ability to protect livestock producers.

Vasquez has advocated for ranchers in their fight against NWS time and time again:

In June, Rep. Vasquez took ranchers' straight to Washington and pressed Secretary Rollins on New World Screwworm (NWS) containment, payment and service delays caused by USDA staffing shortages.

In April, he sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins demanding answers on the Administration’s preparedness strategy for a New World Screwworm (NWS) outbreak as the warmer months approach.

On March 3, 2026, Rep. Vasquez secured unanimous, bipartisan support in the House Agriculture Committee for his Farm Bill amendment condemning the Administration’s push to prioritize Argentinian beef imports at the expense of our American cattle ranchers.

Last year, he sounded the alarm on NWS by calling on the USDA to take immediate steps to protect ranchers while balancing the interests of New Mexico’s small businesses.

He was also integral in securing the necessary funding to build a sterile fly facility through the STOP Screwworms Act, legislation that required the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a New World Screwworm fly rearing facility to combat the spread of Screwworms.

In 2024, Vasquez adamantly opposed the Biden administration’s push to import beef from Paraguay. No matter the political party, Rep. Vasquez is fully committed to fighting for American ranchers.

###",1,2026-09-23T09:45:16Z,2026-09-23T09:46:14Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-joins-110-bipartisan-colleagues-pushing-labor-protections-and,Rep. Vasquez Joins 110 Bipartisan Colleagues in Pushing for Labor Protections and Accountability from Data Centers,2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"September 21, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) joined a bipartisan letter with 110 of his congressional colleagues to tech industry leaders demanding data center construction follow strict guardrails to protect consumers from electricity and water price hikes, and to ensure strong labor and environmental standards.

The letter calls for commonsense and fair practices when developing and operating data centers, including:

Incorporating strong labor standards from the supply chain through operations and maintenance;

Employing local workers and paying at least the prevailing wage;

Using registered apprentices;

Negotiating community benefit agreements with local stakeholders;

Establishing strong safety practices procured from domestic sources;

Companies paying their fair share for the resources used to operate and maintain data centers;

Mitigating impacts on local air quality, drinking water, and water supplies.

“Should you fall short of these standards and fail to provide anything other than a safe and direct benefit for the communities that house these data centers, we will reject their construction,” wrote the lawmakers.

Read the full letter HERE.

Vasquez’s work to protect New Mexico families from higher costs, pollution, and other data center harms includes:

A Victory in Socorro: Earlier this year, after residents on both sides of the aisle in Socorro County raised serious concerns about a proposal to build one of the largest data centers in the world in their backyard, Vasquez was the only statewide or federal official to stand with residents and publicly call for an end to the proposal.

In response to Vasquez’s public leadership, the foreign company behind the proposal pulled out, and Socorro County commissioners unanimously approved a one-year moratorium to give the community time to develop appropriate safeguards.

Vasquez is championing the FAIR Data Act and the Data Center Water and Energy Transparency Act to protect families and small businesses from higher utility bills and require data center developers to disclose how much water and electricity their projects consume.

Rep. Vasquez is an original cosponsor on the Energy Bills Relief Act, which includes a provision directing states to enact policies to protect consumers from utility rate increases stemming from data center energy demands.

Rep. Vasquez signed onto an appropriations letter during the FY27 appropriations process that requested the inclusion of report language directing the Department of Energy to develop a National Strategic Data Center Plan to guide the responsible growth of data center infrastructure across the United States.

###",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-five-rep-gabe-vasquezs-critical-bipartisan-public-safety-bills,"House Passes Five of Rep. Gabe Vasquez’s Critical, Bipartisan Public Safety Bills",2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"September 17, 2026

In the final week of session before the midterm elections, Vasquez pushes five more bills through the House

WASHINGTON, D.C. – During the House’s final week of session until November, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), voted to pass five of his bipartisan public safety bills through the House. The bills take on a range of issues from combatting fentanyl overdoses and substance abuse, stopping scams targeting seniors in Tribal communities, to improving law enforcement officer safety and helping first responders during emergencies.

“Throughout this Congress, I have worked with Democrats and Republicans to introduce legislation to keep our communities safe and support public safety officers. It is great to get these five critical bills through the House to boost public safety,” said Vasquez. “I urge the Senate to send these bills to the President’s desk as soon as possible, and I’ll continue working to protect our officers and get illegal drugs off of our streets.”

These bills include:

The GUARD Act will expand the eligible uses of the Department of Justice grant funding to allow state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to strengthen their ability to investigate and prosecute financial crimes targeting our seniors. This legislation is supported by the National Police Association and AARP.

Tyler’s Law will require the Health and Human Services to issue guidance to hospitals on implementing fentanyl testing in emergency rooms when a patient is experiencing an overdose. This bill was introduced to prevent fentanyl overdoses in the U.S. after Tyler Shamash, a Los Angeles teenager, died from fentanyl poisoning a day after doctors failed to test for the drug when he was admitted to the emergency room, and is supported by the American College of Emergency Physicians and Emergency Nurses Association.

The Combating Illicit Xylazine Act will improve border security operations, classify fentanyl as a Schedule I drug, and categorize Xylazine as a Schedule III illicit substance to ensure our New Mexico agriculture community still has access to necessary substances. New Mexico veterinarians, farmers, and ranchers rely on Xylazine to care for their animals and protect their livelihood, and this legislation is supported by the American Veterinary Medical Association.

The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Actwill require the Department of Transportation to issue a rule ensuring that all new passenger vehicles have equipment that can access as part of their standard equipment, which is critical for rural communities that rely on emergency weather alerts. This legislation is supported by the National Association of Broadcasters, National Emergency Management Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, and AARP.

The National Law Enforcement Officers Remembrance, Support, and Community Outreach Actwill establish a program within the Department of Interior to enhance community outreach, public education, and officer safety programming of the National Law Enforcement Museum through grants to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. This bill is supported by the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, Fraternal Order of Police, and multiple law enforcement organizations.

Rep. Vasquez has consistently worked across the aisle to support New Mexico’s law enforcement officers and public safety:

Introducing bipartisan legislation to counter criminal drone activity and protect youth from cartels.

Cosponsoring the bipartisan Invest to Protect Act to expand the use of COPS grants to improve recruitment, retention, and training efforts for small to medium sized police departments.

Championing bipartisan efforts in support of additional investment and the immediate release of Regional Information Sharing Systems (RISS) Program funding to support law enforcement agencies.

Leading the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Reauthorization Actto provide federal resources to local law enforcement to crack down on drug trafficking and speaking out against the current Administration’s proposal to cut funding to the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program– which combats drug trafficking in critical high-trafficking regions of the United States – by 35%.

###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-backs-data-center-moratorium-grant-county-champions-two-bills,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Backs Data Center Moratorium in Grant County, Champions Two Bills to Protect New Mexicans from Data Center Costs",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) announced a suite of new actions to address New Mexicans’ concerns about rapid data center development. He voiced his support for a data center moratorium in Grant County and championed two new bills — one of which passed out of the House on Wednesday — to stop developers from steamrolling their way into local communities by forcing working families to subsidize massive data center construction projects.

Vasquez released the following statement in support of a data center moratorium in Grant County:

“I’ve heard continuous and serious concerns from folks on both sides of the aisle in Grant and Hidalgo Counties about a large, out-of-state, private equity firm coming to town and trying to build a massive data center in their communities — all while failing to provide basic details to local residents and elected officials. These concerns are valid, and I share them.

The current proposal lacks basic transparency about how much water and electricity the facility would consume, and it raises real concerns about air pollution from its use of 32 natural gas-fueled generators. There are also concerns that this project would generate excessive light pollution, impact the Continental Divide Trail, and alter the rural landscape significantly — degrading qualities that make this part of New Mexico so special.

Grant and Hidalgo County residents deserve clear answers and a meaningful say before a project of this scale moves forward in their backyard. I stand with local residents and leaders in calling for a temporary moratorium on data centers in Grant County so the community has more time to understand the short- and long-term impacts of this proposal.”

The scant details the developer has provided about the proposed project in Grant County are quite concerning. The public notice estimates the facility could use roughly 2.3 million cubic feet of natural gas per hour, about the same amount needed to power 900 homes for an entire year, and its yearly carbon emissions could also equal the emissions produced by roughly 282,600 cars.

Vasquez also voted in support of the Ratepayer Protection Act, which passed out of the House on Wednesday with support from both Republicans and Democrats in Congress. The bill directs state utility regulators to consider protections that would ensure large data centers and other major electricity users cover the additional infrastructure costs needed to serve them, rather than shifting those costs onto families and small businesses.

Today, Vasquez also introduced the Reverse Big Ugly Tax Breaks for Data Centers Act, legislation he is leading to end two major tax breaks for large data centers included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Specifically, Vasquez’s bill would revoke tax breaks that made large data centers eligible for the 100 percent bonus depreciation deduction and Opportunity Zone tax benefits. These corporate tax breaks were paid for by sweeping cuts to healthcare and food assistance for working class Americans made under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the Republican tax law.

“Questionable data center developers are striking murky deals in rural communities across the country, locking in sweetheart deals without public input or transparency. They purposefully withhold information about their water use, emissions, and electricity costs — all while they actively get tax breaks passed by MAGA extremists’ in the Big Ugly Bill that were offset by cuts to healthcare and food assistance for hardworking Americans,” said Vasquez. “I’m proud to lead this bill to end these tax breaks. Wealthy data center developers and their backers shouldn’t be subsidized by taxpayers and ratepayers as New Mexicans struggle to make ends meet in a worsening economy.”

Vasquez’s work to protect New Mexico families from higher costs, pollution, and other data center harms includes:

A Victory in Socorro: Earlier this year, after residents on both sides of the aisle in Socorro County raised serious concerns about a proposal to build one of the largest data centers in the world in their backyard, Vasquez was the only statewide or federal official to stand with residents and publicly call for an end to the proposal.

In response to Vasquez’s public leadership, the foreign company behind the proposal pulled out, and Socorro County commissioners unanimously approved a one-year moratorium to give the community time to develop appropriate safeguards.

Vasquez is championing the FAIR Data Act and the Data Center Water and Energy Transparency Act to protect families and small businesses from higher utility bills and require data center developers to disclose how much water and electricity their projects consume.

Rep. Vasquez is an original cosponsor on the Energy Bills Relief Act, which includes a provision directing states to enact policies to protect consumers from utility rate increases stemming from data center energy demands.

Rep. Vasquez signed onto an appropriations letter during the FY27 appropriations process that requested the inclusion of report language directing the Department of Energy to develop a National Strategic Data Center Plan to guide the responsible growth of data center infrastructure across the United States.

###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-takes-action-curb-catastrophic-risks-posed-rapid-ai,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Takes Action to Curb Catastrophic Risks Posed by Rapid AI Development,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 16, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) announced his support for bipartisan legislation to combat the growing risks posed by advanced artificial intelligence systems — the FRONTIER Act — and called on Speaker Mike Johnson to keep the House at work in Washington until Congress advances “meaningful, bipartisan AI safeguards.”

These actions come amid a growing wave of warnings from researchers and executives at leading AI companies about the risks powerful AI systems pose to humankind. As the industry experts who know AI best are calling on Congress to quickly enact stronger safety measures, Speaker Mike Johnson is sending the House home for seven weeks, punting regulation of this rapidly advancing technology indefinitely and leaving the American people at risk.

In the letter sent Tuesday night to Speaker Johnson urging him to keep the House in session, Vasquez and 106 other lawmakers noted that when it comes to reigning in advanced AI systems, the risks of inaction are dire, including “... mass cybersecurity breaches and development of biological or chemical weapons.” The letter goes on to state that as evidence of the safety risks posed by advanced AI pile up, these disclosures “must not constitute yet another in a long series of ‘warning shots,’ but rather, a starting gun. Congress must act.”

“Congress must answer the urgent call for immediate action on AI regulation, and leaving Washington without addressing this matter would be reckless and irresponsible. It’s clear there is great risk in the continued development of super intelligence with no guardrails, and Speaker Johnson and the President refuse to act responsibly and decisively,” said Vasquez. “I have recently championed the bipartisan FRONTIER Act, one of several bills I’ve supported that merit debate and a vote on the House floor.”

As one immediate step, Vasquez is backing H.R. 9925, the bipartisan Frontier Risk Oversight, National Transparency, Independent Evaluation, and Reporting (FRONTIER) Act.

The FRONTIER Act would create a national, risk-based framework to oversee the most advanced AI systems, with stronger requirements for the largest developers.

It would require safety plans, independent audits, incident reporting, and ongoing assessments of catastrophic risks, including risks involving 50 or more deaths or serious injuries or at least $1 billion in property damage.

The bill would also give the federal government authority to step in when a frontier AI model poses a genuine catastrophic threat.

The bill also establishes an Under Secretary of Commerce for AI Security to oversee key requirements and authorizes the Commerce Secretary to suspend or restrict the development, deployment, or internal use of a frontier model if it presents an imminent catastrophic risk.

###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=661,Leger Fernández Tribal Water Settlement Bill Passes House Natural Resources Committee,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WATCH HEARING COMMENTS BY REP. LEGER FERNÁNDEZ

WASHINGTON — Today, the House Committee on Natural Resources unanimously advanced Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández’s (NM-03) H.R. 4598, Technical Corrections to the Northwestern New Mexico Rural Water Projects Act, Taos Pueblo Indian Water Rights Settlement Act, and Aamodt Litigation Settlement Act.

The amended legislation would authorize additional funding to help the Navajo Nation, Taos Pueblo, and the Pueblos of Nambé, Pojoaque, San Ildefonso, and Tesuque develop, operate, and maintain water infrastructure. The funding covers interest the Tribes’ water settlement funds should have earned when the settlements first became law.

“Agua es vida and water is key to Tribal sovereignty,” said Congresswoman Leger Fernández. “These Tribal nations agreed to settle their senior water rights, and the federal government has a responsibility to keep its word. Today’s bipartisan committee action moves us closer to helping them recover the interest their settlement funds should have earned and use it to build the water infrastructure their communities need. I am grateful to the Tribal leaders and communities who partnered with us on this legislation. The Senate has already acted. Now, let’s pass this bill through the House and send it to the President’s desk.”

Indian water rights settlements commonly allow the Secretary of the Interior to invest trust funds after the funds are appropriated. This provides Tribes with additional resources to support their water infrastructure.

However, some Indian water rights settlements enacted in 2009 and 2010 prohibited the Secretary from investing the trust funds prior to the respective settlement’s enforcement date. That included the Northwestern New Mexico Rural Water Projects Act (Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project/Navajo Nation Water Rights), the Taos Pueblo Indian Water Rights Settlement Act, and the Aamodt Litigation Settlement Act.

As a result, the affected Tribes lost out on interest that was or could have been earned from investing the trust funds between the date they were appropriated and the settlement enforcement date. This legislation provides a technical fix so that the affected Tribes can receive that interest.

The House Natural Resources Committee considered H.R. 4598 during its September 15 markup. The Senate passed the companion legislation, S. 640, by unanimous consent on December 11, 2025. H.R. 4598 now awaits consideration by the full House.

###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=662,Leger Fernández Introduces First-Of-Its-Kind Bill to Establish Financial Relief for Epstein Survivors & Survivors of Sexual Violence,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Bill Text | Bill Summary | Press Conference | Photos

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswomen Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM), alongside Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), and Deborah Ross (D-NC) introduced the Survivors’ Rights Restitution Act, first-of-its-kind legislation that would create a restitution fund in the judicial branch for survivors of sexual violence whose rights were violated by the federal government, including all survivors of abuse by Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. Congresswoman Leger Fernández announced this historic proposal alongside survivors and survivors’ rights advocates at a press conference on Capitol Hill.

The Survivors’ Rights Restitution Act would create a historic investment to support survivors of sexual violence and hold the federal government accountable when it fails to protect survivors’ rights under the Crime Victims’ Rights Act. The estimated lifetime cost of rape is $122,461 per victim. This legislation would address the burden survivors carry, including significant long-term economic and non-economic impacts of sexual violence, from lost income and medical costs to housing instability and enduring trauma.

“Survivors should never have to pay the price when our government fails to protect them,” said Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández. “For too long, survivors of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell’s horrific abuse were denied justice while powerful people were protected. That failure has real costs: lost wages, medical bills, housing instability, and trauma that can last a lifetime. We cannot undo the harm, but we can make sure survivors are not left to carry the burden alone. The Survivors’ Rights Restitution Act gives survivors that path to restitution.”

“The financial, physical, and emotional trauma that survivors of sexual violence carry is a lifetime sentence,” said Congresswoman Pressley. “By no choice of their own, survivors can incur debilitating costs due to medical needs, lost income, housing instability, and mental health support. Far too often, the federal government has been complicit and failed to meet its moral and legal obligation to fight for accountability and relieve this economic burden—our bill would change that by holding our government, abusers, and their co-conspirators to account and helping our survivors get on a pathway to healing. The ignored burden that survivors carry is a stain in our legal system and must be addressed immediately.”

“Far too often, we have seen our government fail survivors of sexual violence who have risked everything to come forward,” said Congresswoman Deborah Ross. “Trauma is often just one part of the burden survivors carry, and it is often compounded by lost income, housing insecurity, and economic hardship. We have seen this play out in the administration’s treatment of survivors of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell’s abuse, who have been dismissed and demonized. Now more than ever, we must ensure all survivors receive the justice they deserve. I am proud to introduce this bill to establish a first-of-its-kind economic relief fund for survivors of sexual violence.”

According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, there are tens of thousands of rape and sexual assault victimizations annually, amounting to 23 violent victimizations for every 1,000 people in 2024. Despite its prevalence, approximately two out of three sexual assaults go unreported.

When a survivor takes action to report the crime, the Crime Victims’ Rights Act grants them specific protections, including the right to timely and accurate notice of any release of the accused. However, the Jeffrey Epstein sweetheart deal is proof that these rights are not always enforced. Furthermore, there is no relief for survivors when their victims’ rights are violated.

To support survivors of sexual violence and empower survivors who choose to come forward, the Survivors’ Rights Restitution Act would:

Establish the Survivors’ Rights Restitution Program to provide compensation to eligible victims for harm and losses.

Create an independent Office of Special Adjudicators for Survivors Restitution within the U.S. Court of Federal Claims to review petitions and determine awards through a streamlined, non-adversarial, and trauma-informed process.

Establish the Survivors Rights Restitution Fund within the Department of the Treasury to finance awards through federal forfeiture proceeds tied to trafficking and sexual exploitation offenses, voluntary contributions, and authorized appropriations.

The bill is cosponsored by: Reps. Yassamin Ansari, Becca Balint, Joyce Beatty, Wesley Bell, Brendan Boyle, Salud Carbajal, André Carson, Yvette Clarke, Lou Correa, Jim Costa, Madeleine Dean, Maxine Dexter, Debbie Dingell, Maxwell Frost, Robert Garcia, Jesús “Chuy” Garcia, Sylvia Garcia, Adelita Grijalva, Hank Johnson, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Summer Lee, Stephen Lynch, Sarah McBride, Jennifer McClellan, LaMonica McIver, Christian Menefee, Kweisi Mfume, Gwen Moore, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Chellie Pingree, Mike Quigley, Delia Ramirez, Emily Randall, Andrea Salinas, Lateefah Simon, Melanie Stansbury, Shri Thanedar, Rashida Tlaib, Paul Tonko, James Walkinshaw, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, and Frederica Wilson.

This bill is endorsed by: Democratic Women’s Caucus; World Without Exploitation; me too. International; Women’s HQ; UltraViolet Action; National Alliance to End Sexual Violence; Safe Exit Initiative; RIA, Inc.; National Alliance to End Sexual Violence; Sexual Violence Prevention Association (SVPA); My Life My Choice; National Network to End Domestic Violence; National Women's Law Center Action Fund; Boston Area Rape Crisis Center; Survivor Justice Network; Equal Rights Advocates; Sexual Violence Prevention Association (SVPA); Victim Rights Law Center; Them Apples Music; Justice for Migrant Women; Esperanza United; National Women's Political Caucus; Feminist Majority; Legal Momentum, the Women's Legal Defense & Education Fund; South Asian SOAR.

“Sex trafficking survivors are often asked to take enormous risks to report their abuse and cooperate with the justice system, only to find that the same institutions demanding their trust can fail to protect their rights,” said Becca Zipkin, Vice President of Policy and Programs, World Without Exploitation. “Survivors of Jeffrey Epstein experienced that failure in one of the most public cases imaginable, but they are far from alone. At World Without Exploitation, we work alongside survivors who know that justice must include changing the systems that allow exploitation to flourish and holding institutions accountable when they fail the people they are supposed to protect. The Survivors’ Rights Restitution Act is an important step toward that goal by giving survivors a meaningful path to redress when the federal government violates their rights. It also recognizes something survivors have long told us — economic justice is survivor justice.”

“As a survivor who has worked alongside thousands of survivors I’m clear that the full story of what it actually takes to survive is not often told. Alongside the mental, physical and emotional toll of the violence that we endured is the financial burden of untangling the web that the trauma creates to try and find our way back to ourselves - there is an actual cost to that work and it’s rare that we have support footing that bill. This country and our government has to ask itself what does it owe survivors? Rep. Pressley is doing her part to begin answering that question,” said Tarana Burke, Co-Founder and Chief Vision Officer, Me Too

“Survivors have been paying the price for their assault for far too long,” said Liz Speakman, Executive Director, Boston Area Rape Crisis Center. “We know that money is not what heals trauma but it goes a long way to providing the space, time and resources to make the path a little easier.”

“Survivors should not have to spend decades paying for crimes committed against us. When institutions fail us, that failure becomes generational trauma. We deserve privacy, dignity, and restitution—not someday, but now. Congresswoman Pressley’s bill gives survivors a path forward,” said Dani Bensky, survivor and advocate.

""As a survivor of Jeffrey Epstein's crimes, I am heartened by the introduction of the Survivors’ Rights Restitution Act of 2026. This vital legislation not only acknowledges our trauma but also provides a pathway to justice with meaningful compensation. It's time for Congress to act swiftly, reinforcing that survivors deserve to be heard, believed, and supported in our healing journey,” said Lara Blume McGee, Survivor and CEO of Team Up World.",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-demands-secretary-kennedy-protect-head-start-programs-new,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Demands Secretary Kennedy Protect Head Start Programs for New Mexico Children,2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy urging him to withdraw a proposed rule to cut Head Start funding, which would take away educational opportunities from New Mexico children. The “Reducing Federal Burden for Head Start Programs,” rule would rescind over 1,400 regulations for Head Start. Educators warn that this rule would cut services, reduce program quality, and lead to large variations between states, leaving some children with less resources than others.

“Head Start is a critical lifeline for over 7,000 hardworking families in New Mexico,” said Vasquez. “But instead of working with parents and communities to make early childhood education and childcare more affordable and accessible, the Administration has spent two years attacking Head Start and taking money away from children. I’m calling on Secretary Kennedy to rescind this threat — our kids deserve better.”

“While Head Start needs improvements and additional investments, staffing, and capacity, the proposed rule does not effectively address these needs. Instead, it risks gutting the program and sowing chaos across the country at a time when hardworking families are struggling more than ever to cover the cost of childcare,” wrote Vasquez in the letter. “Your agency should be working hand-in-hand with Head Start providers and communities to improve the program, not causing additional concern, chaos, and confusion.”

You can read the full letter HERE.

Rep. Vasquez has consistently fought to secure funding for Head Start programs:

Visiting Isleta Pueblo Head Start to discuss the importance of early childhood education, language and cultural preservation, and securing a key report on effective ways to improve Tribal Head Start programs.

Sending a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services urging action to address the severe impacts of recent federal funding interruptions and the government shutdown risks on Head Start programs in New Mexico and across the country.

Pushing for a $14 billion investment dedicated to Head Start in the Fiscal Year 2027 government funding bill to strengthen early childhood education and expand access for families nationwide.

###",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/breaking-vasquez-releases-new-report-illustrating-how-administration-has-cost,"BREAKING: Vasquez Releases New Report Illustrating How Administration Has Cost New Mexico Families Over $3,000",2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 10, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released a new report detailing how much prices have spiked under the Trump Administration, costing New Mexicans $3,100 on average.

“Since this Administration took office, reckless tariffs, the war of choice in Iran, and countless short-sighted policies have caused prices to soar for everything from gas, to groceries, to healthcare and more,” said Vasquez. “New Mexico families can’t take any more of this. In contrast, I’ve introduced an affordability agenda that would lower prices and help working New Mexicans. We must put an end to these economic policies and make New Mexico affordable again.”

Read the full report HERE.

In addition to this report, Rep. Vasquez released a report in April detailing how much energy prices have spiked since the Administration took control in January 2025:

Annual energy bills went up by an average of $70 per New Mexico family in 2025 compared to 2024.

New Mexico has consistently ranked among the top states nationally for highest gas price jumps since the war started.

Since introducing his Affordability Agenda to lower the high cost of living in New Mexico, the Congressman has:

Introduced the Tax Relief from Tariffs and High Costs Act to offer a fully refundable 10% tax credit to households making under $100,000 to offset rising prices — under this bill, a New Mexican making $70,000 could expect around $700 back in their pocket to offset higher prices caused by tariffs.

Cosponsored the Capping Prescription Costs Act, which caps annual prescription drug costs at $2,000 for individuals and $4,000 for families with private health insurance plans.

Cosponsored two bills — the Bipartisan Families First Housing Act and the Stop Wall Street Landlords Act — to address New Mexico’s housing affordability crisis by cracking down on greedy, corporate landlords to ensure hardworking New Mexicans have a fair shot at homeownership.

Has introduced legislation to roll back harmful cuts to food assistanceenacted under the Republican tax law, fighting to feed our veterans, seniors, children, and hardworking families.

Introduced the Energy Bills Relief Act to bring down utility bills for hardworking New Mexicans by cutting red tape, speeding up permitting processes to get more energy projects online, expanding the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program and more.

Supported the Tipped Income Protection and Support (TIPS) Act to permanently end tax on tips for those making under $112,500.

Introduced the Boost the Middle Class Act to increase eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit, allowing more working New Mexican families to receive higher tax refunds each year.

Pushed for the passage of his Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act, which would crack down on rent price gouging and utilities neglect by predatory investors who have purchased 2,500 or more manufactured housing units since 2015.

###",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/vasquez-announces-another-milestone-over-76-million-returned-new-mexicans,Vasquez Announces Another Milestone: Over $7.6 Million Returned to New Mexicans,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 9, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) announced that his office has returned more than $7.6 million to constituents in New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District through casework services, just over a month since announcing the $6 million milestone. Rep. Vasquez’s casework team helps constituents cut past red tape and resolve issues with federal agencies, including the IRS, Social Security Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, and more.

“I’m incredibly proud of this milestone for our office and most importantly, for the $7.6 million we’ve returned to our constituents,” said Vasquez. “My staff and I remain laser-focused on helping every constituent that walks through our door navigate the excessive red tape in federal agencies, resolve their issues, and get justice and the money they are owed. Our work for New Mexicans continues.”

“I retired from the military on 31-Dec-25. Working with DFAS and other Military agencies, I hadn’t received retirement payment or proper deductions for 8 months. I contacted Gabe Vasquez’s office and they spoke with DFAS and the Air Force on my behalf. Gabe Vasquez’s office had everything corrected within 10 business days of them starting their inquiry on my behalf,” said Jacob of Holloman AFB.

“I contacted Congressman Vasquez for help regarding the delay I was experiencing with the Social Security Administration in converting my spousal benefits to survivor benefits after my husband's death. I was quite frustrated for several months after I had made repeated calls to SSA to find out when they would make this adjustment. In just a week after contacting Congressman Vasquez I was delighted to receive my retroactive payments and notice that I would from now on receive my new monthly survivor benefits,” said Sara of Albuquerque.

“My 2025 tax return was set aside and not processed for an administrative reason, holding up my refund. [Vasquez’s Office] responded quickly to my request for help and was able to resolve the issue holding up the processing of my return and just as quickly I received my refund. Good government in action. I am deeply appreciative,” said Michael of Truth or Consequences.

Vasquez’s office also frequently holds Mobile Office Hours to assist constituents in rural communities and cities throughout New Mexico – from Belen, to Anthony, to Deming, you can find the office available to help. For more information on how to attend mobile office hours or visit the office for assistance, you can follow Rep. Vasquez on instagram and facebook.

###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-calls-total-ban-ice-usage-electric-gloves,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Calls for Total Ban on ICE Usage of Electric Gloves,2026-09-04,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) demanding the immediate cancellation of their wasteful $16.7 million contract to equip ICE agents with electric shock gloves and the total ban of abusive devices across all immigration enforcement and detention operations.

“This Administration’s mass deportation campaign isn’t just targeting the ‘worst of the worst,’ it is terrorizing our communities,” said Vasquez. “Now, they’re wasting taxpayer dollars to give untrained agents electric shock gloves – everything about this goes against our American values and puts American citizens at risk. We need reform and accountability, not untrained agents with more dangerous weapons.”

“Introducing low-visibility electric shock weapons into our immigration enforcement system is an unacceptable escalation that prioritizes physical intimidation and unaccountable force over human safety and administrative accountability,” wrote Vasquez in the letter. “We reiterate our demand that you immediately halt the acquisition and deployment of electric shock gloves, cancel the contract, and refocus the Department’s resources on accountability and humanitarian standards rather than expanding a paramilitary apparatus.”

The letter, joined by over 40 Members of Congress, highlights concerns about the use of electric shock devices like the G.L.O.V.E. by the UN Special Rapportuer on Torture, Amnesty International, Center for Victims of Torture, and Physicians for Human Rights. It also requests information regarding training and protocol for the G.L.O.V.E usage, and detailed documents regarding testing of the device.

You can read the full letter HERE.

Rep. Vasquez has consistently stood up against MAGA Republican’s mass deportation agenda and called for common-sense ICE reforms, protecting due process and human rights, and targeted, effective immigration enforcement. Some of his efforts include:

Introducing the New American Immigration Plan, a commonsense plan to secure our borders, boost local economies, and expand legal pathways — all in a humane, cost-effective way that lives up to our American values of fairness and law and order.

Voting against the Republican tax law, which granted DHS a $150 billion blank check to pay for mass detentions and deportations, including of American citizens

Standing firm in his calls for reforms at DHS and opposition handing ICE another blank check

Introducing the Humane Accountability Act, a bill that requires DHS to tell Congress and the public what it’s doing with taxpayer money — including data on detentions, deportations, and deaths in custody — so families know where their loved ones are and the public knows what its government is doing with taxpayer funds.

###",1,2026-09-05T08:49:07Z,2026-09-05T08:50:44Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-introduce-beef-act-protect-american-ranchers-and-lower-beef,Rep. Gabe Vasquez to Introduce BEEF Act to Protect American Ranchers and Lower Beef Prices,2026-09-04,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 4, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) announced that he will introduce the BEEF (Banning External Entry of Foreign Beef) Act, legislation to stop the Administration’s latest expansion of foreign beef imports and advance a long-term strategy to rebuild the American cattle herd, strengthen domestic beef production, and lower costs for consumers.

This bill is in response to the Administration’s announcement that it would import an additional 300,000 metric tons of foreign lean beef trimmings into the United States, hurting ranchers and raising prices for consumers. Vasquez has repeatedly opposed efforts by both Democratic and Republican administrations to increase foreign beef imports at the expense of American cattle producers.

“If we want more affordable beef, the answer is to grow American production, strengthen competition, and make it easier for the next generation of ranchers to stay in business – not make our country more dependent on un-vetted foreign imports,” said Vasquez. “Cattlegrowers in New Mexico and across the nation have made it clear – they want to reverse the President’s foreign beef imports and they need more time, and more tools, to grow their herds and fix the domestic supply chain. My BEEF Act does just that, and I hope that my colleagues from both sides of the aisle can join me in supporting American cattlegrowers and this commonsense proposal.”

The BEEF Act would:

Suspend the Administration’s latest expansion of foreign beef imports.

Require congressional approval before future presidential actions expanding beef imports can take effect.

Establish a four-year Beef Import and Domestic Supply Advisory Board within USDA and direct it to develop strategies to rebuild the American cattle herd and increase domestic beef production.

Advance policies to expand domestic processing capacity, improve livestock market competition, and lower beef costs for American families over the long term.

Rep. Vasquez has long been an ardent supporter of New Mexico’s ranchers and cattle growers. Some of his recent work to support them includes:

In June, he introduced the Protecting America’s Herds Act, an innovative, bipartisan solution to combat the spread of the New World Screwworm parasite, herd loss, and a jump in beef prices.

He was also integral in securing the necessary funding to build a sterile fly production and dispersal facility through the STOP Screwworms Act, legislation that required the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a New World Screwworm fly rearing facility to combat the spread of Screwworms.

On March 3, 2026, Rep. Vasquez secured unanimous, bipartisan support in the House Agriculture Committee for his Farm Bill amendment condemning the Administration’s push to prioritize Argentinian beef imports at the expense of our American cattle ranchers. The amendment ultimately passed out of the House in the Farm Bill.

In 2024, Vasquez adamantly opposed the Biden administration’s push to import beef from Paraguay. No matter the political party, Rep. Vasquez is fully committed to fighting for American ranchers.

###",1,2026-09-05T08:49:07Z,2026-09-05T08:50:44Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=660,"Leger Fernández, N.M. Delegation Call on DOJ Inspector General to Expand Investigation into DEA Fentanyl Practices in New Mexico",2026-09-04,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"NEW MEXICO – Today, U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), and U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) called on the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Inspector General (OIG) to expand its recently announced review of federal fentanyl investigations to examine Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) practices dating back before 2024, with a specific focus on the DEA’s fentanyl practices in New Mexico.

The Delegation’s request follows whistleblower complaints alleging that DEA agents allowed large quantities of fentanyl to reach New Mexico communities instead of seizing the drugs. On August 17th, the DOJ OIG announced a review of federal fentanyl investigations, including cases where investigators allowed fentanyl shipments to continue rather than seizing them. In the letter, the lawmakers point to whistleblower allegations that raise concerns that DEA’s practice of allowing fentanyl to “walk” may extend further than the OIG’s current two-year review period. Additionally, the lawmakers call on the DOJ OIG to examine whether the DEA’s decisions led to increased overdose deaths throughout New Mexico.

“One of the whistleblowers claims that the DEA surveilled a drug trafficker ‘who made repeated deliveries of fentanyl from Phoenix to Albuquerque between 2022 and 2023.’ There is reason to suspect that the DEA’s policies of allowing fentanyl to ‘walk’ stretches back before 2023. For that reason, we believe the OIG should expand its scope of review.” wrote the lawmakers.

“The people of New Mexico deserve answers as to why the agency charged with seizing drugs instead allowed deadly pills to flood their streets. We ask that the DOJ OIG conduct a full and thorough investigation to bring some measure of accountability to actions carried out by DEA,” continued the lawmakers.

In July, the New Mexico Delegation demanded answers from U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Administrator Terrance Cole on why the DEA allowed large quantities of fentanyl to circulate unseized in New Mexico communities.

The full text of the letter is available here and below:

Dear Inspector General Berthiaume:

We write regarding the Department of Justice’s Office of Inspector General’s (DOJ OIG) August 17, 2026’s announcement that it would review “investigations involving the trafficking of substances containing fentanyl… when federal investigators have knowledge, specific information, or probable cause to believe that fentanyl will be transported or distributed to or from, or stored at, a specified identifiable location.” While we are pleased to see OIG initiate this investigation we ask that the Office expand the scope of its review to investigations before 2023 with a specific focus on investigations undertaken by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) within New Mexico.

As you know, current and former DEA agents filed whistleblower complaints alleging that agents within the Agency allowed drug traffickers to deliver hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills onto the streets of New Mexico. One of the whistleblowers claims that the DEA surveilled a drug trafficker “who made repeated deliveries of fentanyl from Phoenix to Albuquerque between 2022 and 2023.” There is reason to suspect that the DEA’s policies of allowing fentanyl to “walk” stretches back before 2023. For that reason, we believe the OIG should expand its scope of review.

Sadly, New Mexico remains a hotbed of fentanyl trafficking and overdose deaths. Federal data show that overdose deaths fell throughout the country in 2025, yet, in New Mexico deaths rose by 21 percent. This increase correlates with the time period during which the DEA’s allowed traffickers to flood the streets with deadly fentanyl pills. Thus, we ask that the OIG examine whether the DEA’s decisions led to increased overdose deaths throughout the state.

The people of New Mexico deserve answers as to why the agency charged with seizing drugs instead allowed deadly pills to flood their streets. We ask that the DOJ OIG conduct a full and thorough investigation to bring some measure of accountability to actions carried out by DEA. Thank you in advance for your consideration.

Sincerely,",1,2026-09-09T09:27:09Z,2026-09-09T09:29:04Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-sends-bipartisan-demand-doj-release-critical-law-enforcement,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Sends Bipartisan Demand to DOJ to Release Critical Law Enforcement Funding,2026-09-03,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) partnered with Rep. David Kustoff (R-TN) and demanded the Department of Justice (DOJ) release funding for the Regional Information Sharing Systems (RISS) Program immediately in a bipartisan letter to Attorney General Todd Blanche.

RISS funding goes towards law enforcement efforts to arrest violent criminals, get illegal drugs off our streets, resolve criminal investigations, and ensure officer and public safety. It has sustained strong bipartisan support in Congress because it is proven to work. Over the last ten years, officers leveraging RISS services reported more than $2.3 billion in narcotics, property, and currency seizures – a 500% return on federal investment – and aided in the arrest of more than 23,000 offenders.

“Congress included $44 million for the RISS program in the FY26 spending bill, however, these funds have yet to be distributed,” wrote Vasquez in the letter. “This funding is critical for local law enforcement agencies, particularly those in rural and small communities, and any delay puts public safety at risk.”

In 2025, RISS funding supported 94 criminal justice agencies and 5,464 sworn personnel throughout New Mexico, including the Cibola County Sheriff’s Office in a burglary investigation. The Sheriff’s office requested digital forensic examination from Rocky Mountain Information Network (RMIN), the regional RISS program for New Mexico. RMIN assisted the office with identifying a suspect of three burglaries spanning over 2 months, and accessing the suspect’s phone to gather critical data that allowed for Cibola County to bring the case to a jury trial before the suspect pled guilty.

""I strongly urge you to release the funding for the RISS program,” said Steve Hebbe, President of the New Mexico Association of Chiefs of Police. “This program is instrumental in helping smaller agencies address serious crimes in their communities. Any delays hurt public safety.""

Read the full letter HERE.

Rep. Vasquez has repeatedly led efforts to support local law enforcement and public safety in New Mexico’s 2nd district:

Reps. Vasquez and Kustoff led a bipartisan letter early in the year calling on the House Appropriations Committee to support $55 million in funding for the Regional Information Sharing Systems (RISS) Program.

Rep. Vasquez has supported over $9 billion for state and local law enforcement, ensuring they have the resources they need to combat cartels and support crime victims.

Rep. Vasquez introduced the bipartisan Secure Our Skies Drone Safety Act to ensure that law enforcement agencies’ use of drones and counter-drone technology are keeping pace with rapidly evolving threats to public safety and national security.

###",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-calls-hearing-protect-manufactured-housing-communities,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Calls for Hearing to Protect Manufactured Housing Communities from Private Equity,2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) called on the House Financial Services Committee to hold a hearing on institutional investors’ impact on Manufactured Housing Communities (MHCs) across the country. Congressman Vasquez led a letter to Chairman French Hill (R-AR) and Ranking Member Maxine Waters (D-CA) — along with five other Members — urging the Committee to hold a hearing to address reports from MHC residents across the country who have said they have experienced price jacking, utilities neglect, and abuse in these communities after private equity firms purchased their communities.

“Congress recently passed a landmark housing bill with overwhelmingly bipartisan support to help Americans purchase homes and specifically targeted institutional investors' role in purchasing single family homes. But the bill did not include equitable protections to address private equity’s role in purchasing hundreds of thousands of lots across several manufactured housing communities,” wrote Vasquez. “There is still more work to be done.”

“The Land of Enchantment Manufactured Home Owners Alliance strongly endorses Representative Vasquez’s call for a House Financial Services Committee hearing on institutional investment and protections for manufactured homeowners,” said Joanne DeMichele, President, Land of Enchantment Manufactured Home Owners Alliance (LEMHOA). “Congress has recognized the damage institutional investors can cause in the single-family housing market through the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. Manufactured home communities deserve the same scrutiny. Homeowners in these communities own their homes but not the land beneath them, making them captive tenants when investors acquire that land and rapidly raise rents or neglect essential infrastructure. In Silver City, New Mexico, residents recently saw lot rents increase by 70% virtually overnight after investors purchased the land beneath their homes. This is exactly why Congress must examine private equity’s growing role in manufactured housing and ensure that affordable homeownership is protected, not exploited.”

Last year, local leaders and constituents in various communities across New Mexico raised alarm bells to Rep. Vasquez regarding an uptick in predatory pricing practices and property maintenance neglect in mobile and manufactured home communities owned by corporate landlords and private equity companies. They cited severe examples of landlord utility neglect for mobile home communities resulting in instances of elderly residents being forced to go without natural gas and hot water for months on end.

Unfortunately, these cases are not anomalies, and the scale of this problem nationwide is astounding. One in six homes in New Mexico are mobile homes. In 2020 and 2021, institutional investors accounted for 23 percent of all manufactured home purchases, up from 13 percent between 2017-2019.

“Manufactured housing is a critical pathway to stable, affordable housing for New Mexicans but private equity has continued to threaten this by failing to keep up their end of the deal in our communities,”said Vasquez. “Manufactured Housing Communities are often forgotten in the conversation to preserve affordable housing which is why Congress must look for every opportunity to fix this problem.”

Read the full letter HERE. This letter has been endorsed by the Land of Enchantment Manufactured Home Owner's Alliance and Private Equity Stakeholder Project.

“Congress must act with urgency to protect the dignity, safety, and security of the millions of Americans living in manufactured housing owned by private equity and other institutional investors,” said Chris Noble, Policy Director at the Private Equity Stakeholder Project. “Across the country, manufactured housing residents living in investor-owned communities are contending with extreme rent hikes, aggressive evictions, and cascading junk fees. In some communities, residents can't even count on having access to clean water. That is unacceptable and exactly why the Private Equity Stakeholder Project applauds Representative Vasquez’s efforts to uplift and center this issue as part of Congress’ housing affordability agenda.”

Rep. Vasquez has repeatedly led efforts to stop greedy, corporate landlords from jacking up New Mexicans’ rents and continues his long track record of championing solutions to make housing more affordable for every hardworking New Mexican.

Some of his most recent actions on this front include:

Hosting a Town Hall in Carlsbad focused on enacting solutions to address the housing affordability crisis in New Mexico.

Introducing the Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act, a bill to ensure investors who purchase over 2,500 mobile homes or pads are not engaging in price gouging or failing to provide basic utilities to residents. This legislation was inspired by the Congressman’s conversations with mobile home residents in places like Alamogordo and Albuquerque who raised serious concerns about mobile home affordability.

Voting in favor of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, an overwhelmingly bipartisan bill that marked the most sweeping win for housing affordability in a generation and became law in July 2026.

Co-sponsoring the Bipartisan Families First Housing Act and the Stop Wall Street Landlords Act to crack down on greedy, corporate landlords and ensure hardworking New Mexicans have a fair shot at homeownership.

###",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-demands-action-expand-care-and-benefits-rural-new-mexico,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Demands Action to Expand Care and Benefits for Rural New Mexico Veterans,2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 2, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) called for immediate action to ensure veterans living in rural and southern New Mexico can access the healthcare, benefits, and assistance they put their lives on the line to earn. After a recent meeting with veterans in Socorro, Vasquez sent a letter to Secretary of Veterans Affairs Douglas Collins demanding that the VA expand in-person assistance and outreach in rural communities, including by placing a full-time VA liaison in Socorro.

“New Mexico veterans – especially those living in rural areas – should never feel left behind by their government. We should be making it easier for them to access the benefits they have earned by serving our country, and I urge the VA to take meaningful action to expand access to services, benefits, and assistance to all veterans, starting by placing a full time liaison in Socorro and allowing veterans in southeast New Mexico to access service in El Paso,” said Vasquez in the letter.

In the letter, Vasquez goes on to lay out a clear solutions to barriers that have continued to block New Mexican veterans accessing their benefits:

Fix outdated VA regional boundaries that force veterans in Otero and Eddy counties to travel hours toward Albuquerque instead of accessing VA care closer to home in El Paso, building on Vasquez’s New Mexico Rural Veteran Health Care Access Act

Increase VA staffing and in-person assistance across New Mexico, including placing a full-time VA liaison in Socorro, and reversing VA staffing cuts

Vasquez also noted how the Administration’s cuts to VA funding and staffing have shortchanged New Mexico veterans, noting, “The recent restructuring and massive staffing cuts has exacerbated these issues, especially for our rural veterans who cannot easily access in-person resources. Existing VA staffing shortages are already causing delays for surgeries, making it hard to access mental health care, and devastating morale for providers, employees, and veterans. This Administration cut nearly 28,000 jobs including 2,700 nurses, over 1,000 medical officers, and more than 1,000 psychologists and social workers. In New Mexico, 172 Veterans Affairs staff were cut which was 4.7% of the NM VA workforce.”

Vasquez’s longstanding record of supporting New Mexico’s veterans includes:

Leading the New Mexico Rural Veteran Health Care Access Act, a bill to add Otero and Eddy county to the Veteran Integrated Service Network (VISN) 22, so that New Mexico veterans who live in these counties can be eligible to access care at the El Paso VA Medical Center which is far closer than many other VA healthcare facilities.

Introducing theVeteran Education Assistance Adjustment Act, bipartisan legislation to increase the yearly book and supply stipend for student veterans which hasn’t been updated since 2008. If passed, it would increase the stipend from $1,000 to $1,400 and adjust for inflation.

The Feed Our Veterans Act, legislation Vasquez introduced and fought for during the most recent Farm Bill markup, to combat food insecurity among veterans and protect them from new burdensome SNAP work requirements introduced under the Republican tax law last summer.

Signed a bipartisan discharge petition to require a House vote on the Major Richard Star Act, legislation that would allow combat-injured veterans to receive both their full military retirement pay and VA disability compensation.

Cosponsoredthe Rural Veterans Transportation to Care Act to improve rural veterans’ ability to access healthcare by expanding eligibility for the VA’s Highly Rural Transportation Grant Program and access to cost-free rides.

Championed the Protecting Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services Act of 2025 to expand telemedicine services for veterans by permanently authorizing VA healthcare professionals to use telemedicine for virtual appointments, including to prescribe drugs.

###",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-takes-capitol-steps-demand-real-stock-trading-ban-gets-vote,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Takes to Capitol Steps to Demand Real Stock Trading Ban Gets a Vote to Crack Down on Corruption,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On September 1, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) and U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02), and other Democratic members from across the country made it clear that the stock trading ban battle is far from over in the House, re-upping their demand that Speaker Johnson bring a stronger stock trading ban bill — the Restore Trust in Government Act — up for a vote immediately.

The Restore Trust in Government Act would prohibit presidents, vice presidents, Members of Congress, and their families and trustees from owning and trading individual stocks. It would also require Members of Congress to divest from all assets covered under the bill within six months of the bill becoming law.

During the press conference, Rep. Vasquez and others called out egregious examples of member trading from both sides of the aisle and outlined why the Stop Insider Trading Act, which is currently languishing in the Senate, is a sham bill that does not go far enough to truly clamp down on corruption in Congress.

Some of these examples include:

Since January 2025 alone, members of Congress have made millions off of insider trading on individual stocks — individual stocks whose values are directly tied to decisions made by Congress.

The top five offenders — which included a fair number of Democrats — traded $329.3 million worth of individual stocks this Congress alone.

The President: since January 2025, President Trump has traded an estimated $2.5 billion in individual stocks and securities — that’s more than all members of Congress combined.

“The American people are sick of the self-enrichment, the wheeling and dealing, and the billions of dollars being harvested in this Administration, as members of Congress and others abuse their power to make themselves wealthier,” said Vasquez in his remarks. “Yet, the hardworking men and women of this country still wake up every single day, make it to their job on time, and do an honest day’s work, often juggling two jobs just to get by in this rigged economy. They scrape by, only to get sick, injured, or fall behind on a car or mortgage payment, before they’re underwater and making choices no Americans should have to make — rationing their medicine, going without healthcare, buying less food, and going bankrupt.”

“I personally don’t own or trade individual stocks. I didn’t come to Congress rich. I am lucky to have what I have and I’ve worked damn hard for it. And I find it disgusting that while hardworking families in states like New Mexico are working paycheck to paycheck, members of Congress sit in this building, vote on laws that impact the stock market, and then turn around and trade the very companies and industries that they’re legislating,” added Vasquez. “The people have had enough. If you serve this body or this administration, you should make a choice to use your privilege and power to make Americans lives better, not make yourself wealthier. ”

Rep. Vasquez is one of the few members of Congress who does not own or trade individual stocks. This latest push to pass a real stock trading ban for Congress builds on Rep. Vasquez’s long record of working to hold Washington accountable and fight corruption:

Championed the TRUST in Congress Act and the Restore Trust in Congress Act to ban stock trading for Members of Congress.

Called for a vote on H.R. 1908, the End Congressional Stock Trading Act, a bill introduced by Rep. Luna (R-FL) to ban members, their spouse or dependent children from buying stocks and increasing notice requirements.

Cosponsored thePublic Integrity in Financial Prediction Markets Act to ban public officials and federal employees from insider trading on prediction markets.

###",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-calls-congress-renew-bipartisan-patriotic-tradition,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Calls on Congress to Renew Bipartisan, Patriotic Tradition of Protecting Public Lands",2026-08-31,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On August 31, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), co-founder of the Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, took to the House floor to make the case that protecting America’s public lands is an act of patriotism and called on lawmakers in both parties to revive Congress’ long tradition of bipartisan conservation.

Vasquez pointed to landmark conservation laws including the Wilderness Act, the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act, and the Endangered Species Act — all of which passed Congress with overwhelming bipartisan support. He argued that the same spirit of cooperation is urgently needed today as public lands face growing threats of sell-offs to the highest bidder, development, and efforts to roll back longstanding conservation protections.

“Today, foreign companies have spread their tentacles and sprawl unto our forests, rivers and national monuments, all in search of a quick buck. Paired together with short-sighted proposals from this Administration that include threatening to undo the Roadless Rule, eliminating the Public Lands Rule, shrinking our national monuments, opening sensitive habitats to drilling in the Arctic Refuge, narrowing regulations of the Endangered Species Act, shrinking the US Forest Service, robbing crucial maintenance funds from the National Parks budget, and just recently, selling off part of Yosemite National Park to a private developer — we are in deep, deep trouble of losing what both Democrats and Republicans have long fought to conserve and protect,” said Vasquez.

Vasquez added, “The truth is, Americans love nature. Hunters, anglers, and families alike agree that public lands are patriotic. Let us renew these concepts of bipartisan cooperation and protect our shared patriotism, even if it means standing up to your own party, standing up to this Administration, in the wake of the largest wave of attacks we’ve seen to our public lands in our nation’s history. I know I’ll be doing my damnedest to protect the places we love in New Mexico, across the West, and this great nation. I hope my colleagues in this body can put partisanship aside and have the courage to do the same.”

WATCH THE FULL CLIP HERE

Full Remarks Transcript

Mr. Speaker,

I rise today to speak about patriotism and what it means to be a patriot in this great country.

The American experience is one that we all share. It bonds us together under one Constitution, and as lawmakers serving in these hallowed halls, we have the privilege of carrying forward one of the world’s greatest democratic ideas through one of its most deliberative bodies.

Fortunately for the American public, that experience includes over a century of bipartisan support for ANOTHER one of our nation’s GREATEST and BEST ideas: the creation, shared stewardship, and enjoyment of our nation’s public lands.

So that we may continue to hunt, to fish, to take our families camping, to discover America’s history, and to unravel the great mysteries and gifts that can only be found in our nation’s national forests, national parks, BLM lands, and wildlife refuges.

Long after the creation of the U.S. Forest Service in 1905 by Republican President and Conservationist Teddy Roosevelt, Americans of all political stripes have continued the legacy of conserving our public lands for all Americans, for multiple use — both for our enjoyment, and for the domestic production of natural resources — a careful balance that requires bipartisanship and local support.

Let me remind this body of the tremendous work of U.S. Senator Frank Church. The Senator’s impact on this nation’s Wilderness, wild and scenic rivers, and land and water conservation is to be celebrated. But in particular, he should be lauded for the way in which he went about passing many of our nation’s bedrock public lands laws that stand until this day.

You see, Senator Church was a quiet, careful workman who worked across the aisle to strike compromise and pass overwhelmingly bipartisan legislation such as the Wilderness Act of 1964, the Land & Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965, and the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act of 1968.

This was an unprecedented period of patriotism and public lands – where bipartisanship flourished and Congress worked as a unified body to protect our nation’s most precious resources.

In 1964, the Wilderness Act passed the House by a whopping 373-1 majority.

That same year, the Land & Water Conservation Fund Act passed by a voice vote in the House and a 92 to 1 vote in the Senate.

In 1973, the House passed the Endangered Species Act in a landslide 355-4 vote.

Even Nixon, not known as an environmentalist, in 1972, proclaimed that “What began as environmental awakening must mature finally into a new and higher environmental way of life.”

Believe it or not, there was a time in which this body crafted win-win models of public lands legislation.

That’s why I helped establish the first-ever bipartisan Public Lands Caucus with Former Interior Secretary and Montana Representative Ryan Zinke.

Because today, we have the potential to piece together the remnants of bipartisan political consensus and provide a powerful framework for modern conservation and public lands initiatives.

Working together under this patriotic caucus to achieve wider bipartisan agreement, I believe we can mediate conflicts between natural resource users and protection proponents, and demonstrate that economic development and conservation are not mutually exclusive objectives.

But today, foreign companies have spread their tentacles and sprawl unto our forests, rivers and national monuments, all in search of a quick buck.

Paired together with short-sighted proposals from this Administration that threaten to undo the Roadless Rule, the elimination of the Public Lands Rule, the shrinking of our national monuments, opening sensitive habitats to drilling in the Arctic Refuge, narrowing regulations of the Endangered Species Act, shrinking the US Forest Service, robbing crucial maintenance funds from the National Parks budget, and just recently, selling off part of Yosemite National Park to a private developer — we are in deep, deep trouble of losing what both Democrats and Republicans have long fought to conserve and protect.

Public lands improve every American’s quality of life. They provide abundance and liberty for all. We must fight to ensure access to the American dream and that includes access to public lands and a healthy environment.

The truth is, Americans love nature. Hunters, anglers and families alike agree that public lands are patriotic.

Let us renew these concepts of bipartisan cooperation and protect our shared patriotism, even if it means standing up to your own party, standing up to this Administration, in the wake of the largest wave of attacks we’ve seen to our public lands in our nation’s history.

I know I’ll be doing my damnedest to protect the places we love in New Mexico, across the West, and this great nation. I hope my colleagues in this body can put partisanship aside and have the courage to do the same.

Thank you Mr. Speaker, I yield back.

###",1,2026-09-01T09:48:49Z,2026-09-01T09:49:51Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-demands-answers-true-cost-iran-war-new-mexican-families,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Demands Answers on True Cost of Iran War for New Mexican Families,2026-08-27,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to President Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth demanding a full public accounting of the economic costs of their cost-raising war of choice with Iran as prices continue to skyrocket for American families.

""What was billed as a two-week operation is now a full-scale war that has lasted for over 150 days, cost at least $37 billion, and claimed the lives of 18 servicemembers. At the same time, prices across the country have gone up significantly, placing the burden of this conflict on American families.” wrote Vasquez. “This uncertainty, and the months of higher costs have taken a toll, impacting Americans’ ability to budget, plan, and save for the future. These costs are untenable, and the American people deserve better.""

“The President lied to the American people about no more forever wars. It’s clear there is no exit plan or any sense of a coherent strategy while prices surge at the gas pump and the grocery store, deeply hurting everyday Americans,” said Vasquez. “This war is costing taxpayers billions, skyrocketing our national debt, depleting our critical munitions stockpile, and putting our servicemen and women in continued danger. Americans deserve to know the true cost of this war, and I can already tell you, it’s too damn much.”

The letter demands for information on the cost of military operations, changes in the oil and energy markets, and larger economic impacts. The request follows the Department of Defense’s supplemental request for tens of billions more to fund the ongoing war in Iran and concerns about the risks for American military personnel.

Read the full letter HERE.

Rep. Vasquez has led the charge to hold the Administration accountable for the war in Iran and bring down prices for New Mexicans:

Pressed Pentagon officials on the Iran War cost, strategy and lack of exit plan.

Calling for answers from the Administration on how the war is spiking gas prices in New Mexico.

Pushing his Affordability Agenda to lower costs for hardworking New Mexico families.

###",1,2026-08-28T17:11:49Z,2026-08-28T17:13:14Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=659,Leger Fernández Leads 18 Members Demanding Answers on Trump Administration’s Rush to Strip Chaco Canyon Protections,2026-08-26,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs, and Congressman Jared Huffman (CA-02), Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee led 18 members of Congress in demanding answers from Interior Secretary Doug Burgum about the Trump Administration’s rushed effort to revoke protections for lands surrounding Chaco Culture National Historical Park.

The Department of the Interior is proposing to revoke Public Land Order No. 7923, which established a 10-mile mineral withdrawal surrounding Chaco Canyon. Revoking the order would reopen these culturally significant public lands to oil and gas leasing and mining activities.

“Chaco Canyon is not just a historical site; it’s a living cultural landscape,” the lawmakers wrote. “The Department’s current fast-tracked efforts to overturn the withdrawal area do not respect the historical, cultural, and spiritual value of Chaco Canyon.”

“The Department’s rushed review undermined the Department’s trust responsibility to Tribal nations and the Tribal consultation process under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act,” they continued.

The lawmakers’ letter raises serious concerns that the Department failed to fulfill its trust responsibility to Tribal nations and honor Burgum’s public commitment to meaningful consultation. During a June 2025 House Natural Resources Committee hearing, Burgum committed to Leger Fernández to send an official with decision-making authority to conduct individual, in-person consultations with every Tribe with an interest in Chaco Canyon. However, Interior’s own draft Environmental Assessment indicates that the Department moved forward before completing all requested consultations. Several Tribes received only “informational meetings,” while requests to meet with a decision-maker remained unmet.

The Department also provided only 21 days for public comment and held no public meetings before advancing its proposal. Despite that abbreviated process, the public submitted an estimated 300,000 comments.

By contrast, the existing protections were finalized in 2023 following 150 days of public comment, eight public meetings, and years of advocacy by Tribal nations. An archaeological study identified more than 4,730 cultural sites within the protected area.

The lawmakers are asking Burgum to disclose:

● How many Tribal consultations included an Interior official with decision-making authority;

● Why the Department failed to honor Tribal requests to meet with a decision-maker;

● Why Interior published its draft proposal before completing Tribal consultation;

● Whether all requested consultations will occur before the Department completes its review; and

● Why Interior conducted a limited Environmental Assessment instead of a more comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement.

The lawmakers requested answers by Friday, August 28.

The letter was signed by Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández, Jared Huffman, Melanie Stansbury, Gabe Vasquez, Sharice Davids, Betty McCollum, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Mark DeSaulnier, Val Hoyle, Donald Beyer Jr., Judy Chu, Dina Titus, Jesús “Chuy” García, Sylvia Garcia, Rashida Tlaib, Diana DeGette, Julia Brownley, and Raja Krishnamoorthi.",1,2026-08-27T16:10:01Z,2026-08-27T16:10:50Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-demands-accountability-data-center-developers-reiterates-new,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Demands Accountability from Data Center Developers, Reiterates New Mexicans Must Have Final Say on Our Land, Air, Water, and Way of Life",2026-08-25,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) announced his support for two new bills to hold massive data center developers accountable, protect New Mexico families from higher electricity costs, and give communities the information they need to weigh the costs and benefits and decide whether to allow these projects to move forward.

“New Mexico’s water, air, and resources belong to us, not to billionaires from coastal states who see an opportunity to extract profit from our land. I’ve been appalled at the backroom deals, silencing of dissenting voices, shady NDAs and shell companies, and the overall lack of transparency from those who seek to do business in our state,” said Vasquez. “New Mexico should absolutely compete for the jobs and technology of the future, but we are not going to sell out our water, our clean air, or our way of life to do it. If you want to do business here, you need to be transparent, listen to local residents, and most importantly, prove to New Mexicans that projects will serve, not steal from, our communities.”

Vasquez announced that he is championing the following legislation to put new guardrails in place around data center proposals:

The FAIR Data Act (H.R. 9655), which would stop data center projects from driving up energy bills for families and small businesses.

The bill would force large corporate electricity users to pay their own way, protecting residential customers and small businesses from being forced to foot the bill for costs related to massive data centers, including increased rates and electric grid upgrades needed to serve massive data centers.

The Data Center Water and Energy Transparency Act (H.R. 9825), which requires data center developers to transparently disclose their energy and water usage.

The bill would force developers to make information regarding data center energy and water consumption available to state and local governments that have or are considering new data center projects in their communities and force noncompliant data centers to pay fines up to $20,000 per day.

A Victory in Socorro: Vasquez has already demonstrated his willingness to stand up to data center developers when communities are not being heard and respected. Earlier this year, after residents on both sides of the aisle in Socorro County raised serious concerns about a proposal to build one of the largest data centers in the world in their backyard, Vasquez was the only statewide or federal official to stand with residents and publicly call for an end to the proposal. In response to Vasquez’s public leadership, the foreign company behind the proposal pulled out, and Socorro County commissioners unanimously approved a one-year moratorium to give the community time to develop appropriate safeguards.

Mostly recently, Vasquez condemned the use of force to stifle local opposition at a community meeting in Doña Ana County on Project Jupiter.

Vasquez’s support of the legislation announced today builds on his ongoing work to hold data center developers accountable to local communities, which includes:

Leading the Energy Bills Relief Act, which includes a provision directing states to enact policies to protect consumers from utility rate increases stemming from data center energy demands.

Championing bill language during the FY27 appropriations process that requested the inclusion of report language directing the Department of Energy to develop a National Strategic Data Center Plan to guide the responsible growth of data center infrastructure across the United States.

###",1,2026-08-26T05:33:32Z,2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-leads-35-members-demanding-speaker-johnson-bring-stock,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Leads 35 Members Demanding Speaker Johnson Bring Stock Trading Ban Bill to the Floor for a Vote,2026-08-25,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) demanded House Speaker Mike Johnson bring H.R. 6731, the Restore Trust in Government Act, to the House floor for a vote in a letter he led along with 35 of his House colleagues. The bill would prohibit presidents, vice presidents, Members of Congress, and their families and trustees from owning and trading individual stocks. It would also require Members of Congress to divest from all assets covered under the bill within 180 days of the bill becoming law.

“We urge you to bring H.R. 6731, the Restore Trust in Government Act to the floor immediately for a vote when the House of Representatives returns from the August recess”, wrote Vasquez. “The American people deserve a real stock trading ban for politicians in Washington, to end the corruption that lets politicians get rich off of inside information while working people struggle,”

“The American people are sick of the corruption in Washington. They are sick of paying more for gas, groceries, and healthcare, and Congress doing nothing about it because politicians get rich by profiting from the industries and corporations that keep prices high,” the letter continues. “They want to end the corruption and we have a responsibility to deliver on that.”

Speaker Johnson previously held a sham vote on a bill pretending to prevent stock trading which received bipartisan opposition. This political ploy included massive loopholes allowing members to keep the stocks they own and continue buying private stocks and profiting off of cryptocurrency. Additionally, Johnson added unrelated provisions to the bill that would erode voting rights for eligible voters, disenfranchise Tribal voters, and erode privacy rights by requiring some voters to mail a copy of their driver’s license, passport or Social Security information in order to cast a ballot.

“Speaker Johnson should stop playing politics and holding show-votes on weak, watered-down bills that do nothing to stop corruption in Washington,” said Vasquez. “The Restore Trust in Government Act has strong support, includes real reforms that apply to both Congress and the President, and will show the American people that we are here to work for them.”

Read the full letter HERE.

Rep. Vasquez is one of the few members of Congress who does not own or trade individual stocks. This latest push builds on Rep. Vasquez’s long record of working to hold Washington accountable and fight corruption:

Introduced the TRUST in Congress Act and the Restore Trust in Congress Act to ban stock trading for Members of Congress.

Called for a vote on H.R. 1908, the End Congressional Stock Trading Act, a bill introduced by Rep. Luna (R-FL) to ban members, their spouse or dependent children from buying stocks and increasing notice requirements.

Cosponsored thePublic Integrity in Financial Prediction Markets Act to ban public officials and federal employees from insider trading on prediction markets.

###",1,2026-08-26T05:33:32Z,2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-demands-answers-project-jupiters-water-use-new-mexico-supreme,Rep. Stansbury Demands Answers on Project Jupiter’s Water Use as New Mexico Supreme Court Issues Emergency Orders,2026-08-24,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ALBUQUERQUE — Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) is requesting answers from New Mexico state officials regarding the water use, water rights, permitting, quality, and compact compliance associated with Project Jupiter, a 1,400-acre artificial intelligence data center campus under construction near Santa Teresa in Doña Ana County, New Mexico. Stansbury’s calls for answers come as the New Mexico Supreme Court issued two emergency orders Sunday night regarding the project’s emergency well permit, used for construction of the project, and a proposed air quality permit.

Stansbury is directing the public request for information by close of business this Friday, August 28, as the Court has ordered the parties to respond to its orders by Wednesday of next week. Stansbury’s letter, addressed to the New Mexico Attorney General, the State Engineer, the State Environment Secretary, and the Chair and Director of the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission, requests information about the project’s proposed water use, analysis of potential impacts, and compliance requirements under the Rio Grande Compact.

The request comes as New Mexico confronts unprecedented water challenges and works to meet its obligations under a court-supervised settlement following litigation with Texas over the Rio Grande Compact. Under the settlement, New Mexico must reduce groundwater pumping in the Lower Rio Grande Basin by 18,200 acre-feet annually by 2036.

Project Jupiter is expected to become a significant industrial water user in the basin, with estimates putting its water use at over a million gallons a day. Stansbury is asking the Office of the State Engineer (OSE) and others to provide a clear public accounting of how the project’s water needs will be met and what water rights and permits support those needs.

""In New Mexico we know water is life and our communities are facing a historic water crisis,” Rep. Stansbury said. ""Every new major water use deserves a transparent accounting of where its water is coming from and how that use fits within our state’s obligations to our tribes and Pueblos, acequias, farmers and ranchers, the communities who already depend on these waters, and our surrounding neighbors. New Mexicans demand and deserve to know how their water is being used, how those rights may be obtained or transferred, and what permits the State has approved. This is about transparency, accountability, and protecting New Mexico’s water future.""

In her letter to the OSE, Stansbury requests information on four key areas:

Project Jupiter’s water use: Estimated and reported daily and annual water consumption during construction and future operations, including the intended end uses of the water, such as cooling, power generation, and domestic use, and potential consumptive use and return flows.

Project Jupiter’s water rights: The water rights currently associated with the project, their origin—including whether they derive from prior agricultural use—and the legal process through which any transfer or change of use was reviewed and approved. The request also asks whether any new groundwater appropriations have been sought or granted.

Project Jupiter’s permits and applications: A complete list of applications and permits filed with or issued by OSE, including filing dates, current status, and any protests or objections submitted.

Analyses Conducted on Project Jupiter’s Water Impacts: Any analysis performed of the project’s proposed water use or discharge on state water supplies, water quality, other users, and compliance with in-state, interstate, and international laws, agreements, and management requirements on the Rio Grande.

“The scale of Project Jupiter makes this an important test case for how New Mexico evaluates major industrial water users in a water-scarce future,” Stansbury said. “The public should have a clear accounting of what water resources are being proposed for this project, the process by which those decisions are being made, and must have a say on how water in New Mexico is used.”

This request follows two unanimous orders from the New Mexico Supreme Court on August 23rd, 2026, pausing Project Jupiter proceedings. One order temporarily halts a scheduled September 14th air quality permit hearing at the New Mexico Environment Department on Project Jupiter’s proposed natural gas fuel cell system. The second order directs the Office of the State Engineer to pause an emergency permit for a specific well being used for the data center’s construction. These orders follow concerns from environmental groups alleging a lack of due process in the state's permitting processes. The New Mexico Supreme Court gave the parties involved until September 2, 2026, to respond to their orders.

Find a recording of the press call on this topic here.

Find a copy of the letter here or read the full letter below:

Dear Attorney General Torrez, State Engineer Anderson, Secretary Kenney, Chair Sanchez, and Director Riseley-White:

I am writing to urgently request information from applicable state agencies regarding the water usage, water rights, water permitting, and potential impacts to water quality and interstate river compact compliance associated with Project Jupiter, a 1,400-acre artificial intelligence data center campus under construction near Santa Teresa in Doña Ana County, New Mexico. While the New Mexico Supreme Court has stayed the administrative proceeding on the project’s air quality permit and the use of its emergency water-well authorization this week, we remain deeply concerned about the proposed water usage by this facility. Specifically, we are concerned about whether it has obtained the proper water rights and/or permits to operate in compliance with New Mexico water law and the state's obligations under the Rio Grande Compact and interstate agreements.

This request comes at a critical moment for New Mexico’s water future. As you know, the state is currently experiencing one of its worst water years on record: water curtailments have hit users and farmers statewide following record-low snowpack, Elephant Butte Reservoir has fallen to its lowest storage level since 1971, and the Rio Grande has now run dry through the middle reach for more than three months—one of the longest such stretches on record. While we are hopeful that weather conditions will improve this year to provide increased precipitation, we understand that these conditions represent a longer-term trend and shift in our water supplies due to climate change—which raise significant concerns about the impacts of this project.

With increasing constraints on our water supply, New Mexico is already experiencing significant pressures to restrict and reduce existing uses. Following litigation with Texas over the Rio Grande Compact, New Mexico is now under a binding, court-supervised settlement requiring a reduction in groundwater pumping of 18,200 acre-feet annually in the Lower Rio Grande Basin by 2036—the very basin from which Project Jupiter draws its water. Given New Mexico’s record-breaking drought and ongoing water availability crisis, your agencies’ decisions governing the allocation, permitting, and oversight of our limited water resources deserve the utmost public accountability and transparency. This is especially true when the State is legally obligated to bring into balance a large new industrial water user entering the basin—one that is currently reported to require over a million gallons of water a day.

The questions Project Jupiter has raised matter to and affect New Mexicans statewide. Given the size of this project and the precedent it may set for how similar large-scale industrial water developments will be reviewed in the future, the public deserves a clear and complete record of the water resources at stake and how water rights and permitting determinations will be made.

This request follows significant public concern raised regarding the project’s water requirements at several local proceedings. At the Doña Ana County Board of Commissioners meeting in September 2025, commissioners voted to approve $165 billion in industrial revenue bonds for Project Jupiter. That meeting drew several hundred residents, many of whom requested that the vote be delayed, to allow more time for questions about water and other impacts to be answered. Subsequently, on October 29, 2025, the New Mexico Legislature’s Water and Natural Resources Committee met in Artesia and received a briefing on Project Jupiter, during which committee members raised concerns regarding water use and the availability of information about the project to the public.[4] Similar concerns were also raised in recent public listening sessions held by New Mexico lawmakers over the last several weeks and have been raised by federal state, tribal, and local leaders across New Mexico.

At this time, a full accounting of Project Jupiter’s proposed water usage, permits and water rights has not been made publicly available nor has any analysis of its potential impacts on New Mexico’s water supply, water quality, and compliance with interstate compacts, agreements, and court orders been made public. To shed light on these issues we are respectfully requesting that each of your agencies provide the following information as it pertains to your agency, office, or commission and any relevant information your office may have on the matter:

Project Jupiter’s estimated and reported water usage, in daily and annual volumes, for both the construction phase and ongoing/future operations, including the intended end uses of that water (e.g., cooling, power generation), potential consumptive use, and potential return flows.

Any proposed or confirmed water rights or permits currently associated with Project Jupiter, including their origin (e.g., prior agricultural use) and the legal and/or administrative processes by which any transfer or change of use was reviewed and approved—and whether any new groundwater appropriations have been sought or granted for the project, including quantities, places of use, and relevant dates of administrative action.

A list of all permits and applications filed with or issued by OSE for Project Jupiter, including dates and status of each and any protests or objections filed against them.

Any analysis performed of the project’s proposed water use or discharge on state water supplies, water quality, other users, and compliance with in-state, interstate and international laws, agreements, and management requirements on the Rio Grande.

Given the level of public concern regarding this project and its potential water impacts, and considering imminent court decisions regarding project completion, we request your responses in writing to my office no later than close of business Friday, August 28. We also request that your office make all non-privileged information available to the public.

Thank you for your attention to this request.

###",1,2026-08-25T05:31:37Z,2026-08-25T05:33:09Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=657,"On Fourth Anniversary of Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Containment, Leger Fernández Demands Answers on Toxic Metals in Fire Retardants",2026-08-21,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SANTA FE, N.M. — Four years after the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire was finally contained, U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) is demanding greater accountability for the federal government’s use of wildfire retardants that may contain toxic metals.

Leger Fernández and House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) led a letter asking the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate the prevalence and potential effects of toxic metals in fire retardants used by the U.S. Forest Service and Department of the Interior. The letter was also signed by Representatives Judy Chu, Adelita Grijalva, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Pablo José Hernández, Lateefah Simon and Sara Jacobs.

“Four years ago, the flames finally stopped. But for the families of Mora and San Miguel counties, this disaster did not end when the smoke cleared,” said Congresswoman Leger Fernández. “It lives in contaminated wells, flood-scarred fields, empty foundations and the endless paperwork of survivors still waiting for FEMA to do its job. The federal government started this fire, and the federal government has a responsibility to answer every question about the harm it caused. We do not yet know whether fire retardants contributed to the heavy metals found in northern New Mexico’s groundwater. Our families should not have to wonder whether the water coming from their tap is safe to drink. Accountability means following the evidence, telling the truth and fixing what was broken.”

Federal agencies used 48.6 million gallons of fire retardant in wildfire operations in 2024 alone. One academic study estimated that aerial wildfire retardants released approximately 380,000 kilograms of toxic metals into the environment nationwide between 2009 and 2021.

Following the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, testing found elevated levels of heavy metals in groundwater in parts of northern New Mexico. The lawmakers’ letter does not draw a conclusion about the source of that contamination. Instead, it asks GAO to determine whether fire retardants could pose risks to communities, watersheds and wildland firefighters.

Specifically, the lawmakers ask GAO to examine:

The prevalence of metals such as arsenic, antimony, lead, chromium and cadmium in fire retardants used by federal agencies;

Potential health and environmental effects when retardants are deployed near watersheds and groundwater;

Potential health risks for nearby communities and wildland firefighters;

Safer alternatives that could reduce the introduction of toxic metals into the environment; and

Best practices federal agencies should follow to protect human health and the environment.

The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire began with two U.S. Forest Service prescribed burns that escaped control and merged. It became the largest wildfire in New Mexico’s recorded history, burning more than 340,000 acres before reaching full containment on August 21, 2022.

Leger Fernández’s Work for Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Survivors

Since the fire, Congresswoman Leger Fernández has:",1,2026-08-22T05:24:59Z,2026-08-22T05:26:16Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-tours-albuquerques-veterans-integration-center-reaffirms,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Tours Albuquerque’s Veterans Integration Center, Reaffirms Commitment to Supporting Veterans",2026-08-20,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On August 19, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) toured the Veterans Integration Center (VIC) of Albuquerque to discuss expanding VA benefits and opportunities with veterans and VIC leaders. The VIC is dedicated to providing stable housing, financial security, and community for veterans and their families.

During the event, Rep. Vasquez spoke with VIC CEO Brock Wolf and Claudia Risner, a Board Member at the Veterans Integration Center and Previous Chair of the Veterans and Military Families Caucus.

“Places like the VIC are serving our veterans with outstanding care, compassion and respect,” said Vasquez. “Folks who raise their hand to serve and protect our freedom deserve to have an opportunity to reintegrate into society. But too many of our veterans suffer from trauma and end up on the streets - that’s why resources like the VIC are so important. I’m going to continue fighting so that our federal budget reflects the true cost of care for our veterans – from healthcare and housing, to education and workforce training.”

Rep. Vasquez’s advocacy reflects his ongoing commitment to supporting veterans and active-duty servicemembers. His previous work includes:

Spearheading the TRICARE Travel Improvement Act, which Vasquez led and got passed into law with bipartisan support through the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act. The bill lowers the mileage requirement for TRICARE travel reimbursement from 100 miles to 75 miles — helping military families in rural communities more easily access medical care.

Leading the New Mexico Rural Veteran Health Care Access Act, a bill to add Otero and Eddy county to the Veteran Integrated Service Network (VISN) 22, so that New Mexico veterans who live in these counties can be eligible to access care at the El Paso VA Medical Center which is far closer than many other VA healthcare facilities.

Introducing the Veteran Education Assistance Adjustment Act, bipartisan legislation to increase the yearly book and supply stipend for student veterans which hasn’t been updated since 2008. If passed, it would increase the stipend from $1,000 to $1,400 and adjust for inflation.

The Feed Our Veterans Act, legislation Vasquez introduced and fought for during the most recent Farm Bill markup, to combat food insecurity among veterans and protect them from new burdensome SNAP work requirements introduced under the Republican tax law last summer.

Signed a bipartisan discharge petition to require a House vote on the Major Richard Star Act, legislation that would allow combat-injured veterans to receive both their full military retirement pay and VA disability compensation.

Voted in support of the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act to obtain critical funding that would improve the quality of life for veterans and make substantial investments in infrastructure to support the readiness of active-duty servicemembers in New Mexico.

###",1,2026-08-21T05:30:57Z,2026-08-21T05:32:22Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-announces-76-million-affordable-housing-programs-and-passage,Rep. Stansbury Announces $7.6 million in Affordable Housing Programs and Passage of the Most Significant Housing Legislation in Decades,2026-08-20,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ALBUQUERQUE – Today, Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) held a press conference with local organizations that she helped secure federal funding for through Community Project Funding. These projects work to expand the affordable housing supply and support seniors, families, and young people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity across New Mexico.

Rep. Stansbury also celebrated the enactment of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act (H.R. 6644) as one of the most significant bipartisan housing bills to pass Congress in the last 30 years. The bill became law on July 11th without the President’s signature after Congress passed the legislation to dramatically increase the building of affordable housing, cut red tape, expand access to capital, modernize programs, and restrict private equity and institutional investors from buying family homes.

Through Community Project Funding, the Congresswoman has secured more than $7.6 million for seven projects, including:

$4.5 million for the City of Albuquerque for a homeless youth center to provide our first dedicated facility for young people experiencing homelessness, including a safe, transitional environment, secured in FY23 and FY24.

$300,000 for the Veterans Integration Center for the first veterans transitional housing campus in New Mexico to provide transitional housing and programs for Veterans and their families experiencing housing insecurity, secured in FY23.

$994,950 for Saranam for transitional housing for families experiencing homelessness - for construction of a new transitional housing project to serve unhoused families in Albuquerque’s west side and provide wrap-around services as families get back on their feet, secured in FY24.

$500,000 for YDI to provide a transitional housing facility for at-risk youth in Albuquerque, secured in FY24.

$850,000 for the City of Albuquerque to provide a senior stability shelter in Albuquerque to provide permanent supportive housing for seniors experiencing homelessness, secured in FY26.

$250,000 for Bernalillo County to expand affordable housing by providing affordable housing for low- and moderate-income seniors and families in Downtown Albuquerque and Bernalillo County, secured in FY26.

$250,000 for Housing New Mexico to expand transitional housing for families in Albuquerque experiencing crisis, secured in FY26.

“Housing is a human right. Every person in our communities deserves a safe, affordable place they can call home,” Rep. Stansbury said. “With the rising cost of living—from groceries, gas, and rent—it is imperative we put in the work to ensure our families, young people, seniors, and veterans get the support they need when experiencing a housing crisis. That’s why I am so proud to have secured millions for housing projects across NM-01. But it’s going to take work from every level—federal, state, and local—to make this a reality. I am grateful to be in this fight with community partners who are dedicated to making New Mexico a better place.”

“Gateway Young Adult exists because federal investment made it possible, and because this community decided that young people facing homelessness deserved more than just a bed,” Gilbert Ramírez, Director of the Department of Health, Housing & Homelessness at the City of Albuquerque, said. “We built this center around what young people actually told us they needed: a place that feels safe, services that meet them where they are, and a team that believes in their potential. Gateway Young Adult is just one piece of a broader system. From emergency shelter and medical sobering to permanent housing and home rehabilitation, the Department of Health, Housing & Homelessness meets people at every stage. Federal funding flowing to local organizations is what gives us the capacity to do this impactful work.”

“Thanks to Congresswoman Stansbury’s support, we’re strengthening Bernalillo County’s home rehab program so families can stay safely housed,” Cindy Chavez, Bernalillo County Manager, said. “When all levels of government and non-profits work together, we are able to expand housing options for all.”

“We are grateful for Rep. Stansbury’s support of Community Project Funding and for taking the time to meet the families at the heart of our work,” Tracy Weaver, Saranam Executive Director, said. “This investment matters because it strengthens Saranam’sability to provide New Mexico families facing homelessness with stable housing, education, and a supportive community. It gives families the tools and opportunities to build stability, move out of poverty and create lasting change across generations.”

“The Veterans Integration Centers recently opened a new, state-of-the-art campus serving veterans and their families,” Brock Wolff, CEO of the Veterans Integration Center, said. “The campus provides transitional housing, supportive services, suicide-prevention programming, and a food pantry. Thanks to Congresswoman Stansbury’s support in securing funding for furniture, fixtures, and equipment at our new campus, VIC is better equipped to provide safe, dignified, and effective services to veterans and their families. This investment is helping us improve outcomes and change lives for the men and women who have served our nation and are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. We are also grateful for Congresswoman Stansbury’s leadership in advancing $800,000 for a future statewide transportation initiative. When funding becomes available, this initiative will help veterans—particularly those in rural and underserved communities—reach medical care, benefits, and other essential services.”

“Empowering Homeless Youth is about far more than providing a safe place to stay, it is about giving young people the stability, support, and opportunities they need to build a stronger future,” Robert Chavez, CEO of YDI, said. “From education and employment to therapeutic care and independent living skills, our goal is to ensure every young person leaves with greater confidence, resilience, and hope for what comes next.”

“As the state housing finance agency and the pass-through entity of these important federal resources, Housing New Mexico sees firsthand the impact of the work being accomplished to support New Mexico families,” Kellie Tillerson, Community Development Director of Housing New Mexico, said. “This funding will support the stability of New Mexico’s First Congressional District’s most vulnerable residents. By creating stable housing opportunities, these families will be positioned to live more prosperous lives and contribute positively to the District 1 community. We are grateful to Congresswoman Stansbury for her ongoing support of families with children who are struggling with housing and thank her for making $250,000 available for transitional housing for families in Albuquerque. Housing New Mexico is proud to partner with providers statewide to deliver services at the local level.”

In addition to securing Community Project Funding for the projects above, Congresswoman Stansbury has submitted Community Project Funding requests for FY27 for four more housing projects in NM-01:

$25,868,600 requested for the Mescalero Apache Nation for the Windy Point Housing Development to support the development of the Windy Point Housing Development and address critical housing needs across the Mescalero Apache Nation.

$2,500,000 requested for the City of Albuquerque’s young adult housing expansion to support the expansion of housing for young adults and provide stable living environments and supportive services for vulnerable young adults and youth.

$2,000,000 requested for the City of Albuquerque’s affordable housing acquisition to support land acquisition by the City of Albuquerque’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency to advance affordable housing development and expand housing opportunities for Albuquerque residents.

$2,000,000 to Bernalillo County for the homelessness prevention and housing stabilization program to support homelessness prevention and housing stabilization services and help vulnerable residents remain housed and avoid homelessness across Bernalillo County.

Community Project Funding (CPF) grants are congressionally directed spending grants that fund a variety of projects nationwide, such as housing, homelessness prevention, workforce training, public facilities, parks, resilience planning, and other critical infrastructure and services.

To watch a video of the press conference, click here.

###",1,2026-08-25T05:31:37Z,2026-08-25T05:33:09Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=656,Leger Fernández Joins National Coalition for Expanded RECA Legislation,2026-08-19,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SANTA FE, NM — Congresswoman Leger Fernández is co-leading the Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act of 2026 (RECRA), bipartisan legislation that builds upon her work to compensate New Mexicans affected by radiation exposure from the Trinity and other nuclear tests. Congressman James Moylan (R-Guam) introduced the legislation. The Congresswoman has worked alongside Congressman Moylan to make sure communities harmed by the nation's nuclear testing receive the compensation and recognition they deserve.

Congresswoman Leger Fernández introduced the RECA Amendments Act in 2021. She led the U.S. House of Representatives effort to expand RECA to cover New Mexico downwinders and post '71 uranium miners alongside Senator Ben Ray Lujan, the New Mexico congressional delegation, and New Mexico advocates. This latest proposal seeks to address the remaining gaps left after Congress partially expanded RECA in 2025.

The legislation would expand eligibility to additional impacted communities, extends the filing deadline by fifteen years, increases compensation, authorizes reimbursement of medical expenses, broadens the list of eligible diseases, streamlines the claims process through the use of affidavits where records are unavailable, and establishes a process for adding future classes of eligible individuals without requiring additional acts of Congress.

The bill also recognizes the unique challenges faced by many rural, Tribal, Native, and territorial communities, expands eligibility for atomic cleanup veterans, and directs a comprehensive study into the long-term and multi-generational health effects of radiation exposure.

""For generations, New Mexico's downwinders and uranium workers have carried the cost of our nation's nuclear legacy in their bodies, their families, and their communities,” said Rep. Leger Fernández (D-New Mexico). “Last year, after years of bipartisan work and relentless advocacy from survivors, advocates, and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, we finally expanded RECA. That was a historic victory, but our work is not finished. This legislation recognizes a simple truth: more people were harmed than our laws have acknowledged. It expands access to compensation, extends the deadline so families have the time they need to come forward, and provides medical benefits because surviving radiation exposure should not mean facing the cost of care alone. It also recognizes the reality that many records have been lost to time by allowing affidavits to help prove work history and physical presence. New Mexicans deserve justice.""

""This legislation brings together a strong bipartisan coalition of Members of Congress, survivors, advocates, and communities who have refused to give up this fight,” said Congressman Moylan. “Together, our voices are stronger, and together, we will keep fighting until every American harmed by radiation exposure receives the justice they have been denied. I’m not backing down until we get this across the finish line for the people of Guam who were impacted and all those still left behind.”

The Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act of 2026 (RECRA) is backed by a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers. Co-leads include Representatives Wesley Bell (D-MO) and Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), while additional members have signed on as cosponsors in support of their communities affected by radiation exposure.

""Long before I got to Congress, I heard from St. Louisans who endured decades of health crises, economic struggles, and neglect after radioactive contamination from the Manhattan Project upended their lives. Families from across my district have suffered from terrible cancers, thyroid issues, and even death because of the improper storage of this deadly waste,” said Congressman Wesley Bell (D-Missouri). ""While no legislation can truly rectify that harm, this expansion of compensable diseases and increase in RECA benefits from $50,000 to $150,000, in addition to covering medical expenses, is a huge step in the right direction. Nothing can fully right this wrong, but this effort tips the scales toward justice — for everyone from St. Louis to Guam.”

“For too long, Coloradans have been impacted by radiation from U.S. nuclear weapons production, testing, and uranium mining at Rocky Flats and Cotter Mill without the compensation they deserve. This bipartisan legislation could finally offer some relief for communities that have suffered without federal support despite decades of documented exposure,” said Rep. Brittany Pettersen (D-Colorado). “I'm going to continue to do all I can to push not only to extend RECA, but to expand it so that everyone who has been affected by these radioactive sites in my district and across the country gets the care they deserve.”

""I stand with the Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium and all those that refuse to let the world forget what happened at the Trinity Site in July 1945. It is past time the U.S. government took full responsibility for the harm it has wrought on our Downwinder and other impacted communities, and this bill marks a major step in the right direction toward the compensation and recognition they deserve,"" said Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-New Mexico). ""By cutting red tape for claimants, extending the filing period by 15 years, covering additional diseases caused by radiation, and so much more, this bill will make a meaningful difference in the lives of Downwinder communities in New Mexico and beyond, and I am proud to support it.""

“For decades, Pacific communities have lived with unanswered questions about the long-term consequences of America’s nuclear weapons program,” said Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R-CNMI). “The Northern Mariana Islands deserves answers too. This issue was recently raised with me by members of our community who asked whether radioactive fallout from nuclear testing in the Pacific may have reached the Northern Mariana Islands and what that exposure could have meant for the health of our people. I want to give them credit for raising an important question that deserves to be examined. My responsibility as your Delegate is to listen when concerns are brought to me, look at the facts, and then determine what we can do about them. That is what we did here. We began examining the issue, brought the CNMI’s concerns to our federal partners, and now this legislation calls for research into radiation exposure and its potential impacts on the Northern Mariana Islands, while also expanding compensation and improving access to health resources for communities affected by America’s nuclear testing program.

I am grateful to Congressman James Moylan for his partnership and for working with me to ensure the CNMI was included in this legislation. We should not presume what the science will tell us. But our people deserve to have the question asked, the history examined, and the research done. This is how representative government should work: our community raises a concern, we listen, and then we get to work finding answers.”

“Communities in my district have lived with the devastating legacy of radioactive contamination for far too long,” said Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-Illinois). “Since my first term in Congress, I’ve fought to ensure these families receive the compensation and support they deserve. They shouldn’t have to wait a second longer. This legislation is about righting that wrong by not only expanding access to compensation to the Metro East but also increasing the support available to those who were harmed. I am proud to lead this bill with Congressman Moylan to ensure impacted families and communities finally receive the relief and resources they deserve.”

""Nevadans are still paying the price for decades of nuclear testing, with families across our state facing cancer, disease, and the loss of loved ones to radiation exposure,"" said Rep. Steven Horsford (D-Nevada). ""For too long, these families have had to fight just to be recognized and receive the compensation they are owed. Expanding RECA eligibility means more Nevadans will finally have access to that support. We cannot give families back the years they lost or the loved ones taken from them, but we can make sure they are not forgotten. I will keep fighting until every Nevadan harmed by this testing gets the recognition and compensation they deserve.""",1,2026-08-20T05:28:41Z,2026-08-20T05:29:58Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-moylan-introduce-bipartisan-reca-reauthorization-act-standing-new,"Rep. Vasquez, Moylan Introduce Bipartisan RECA Reauthorization Act, Standing up for New Mexico’s Downwinder Community",2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. – On August 17, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) cosponsored the Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act of 2026, an updated version of the bill to deliver New Mexico’s downwinder communities the compensation they deserve.

""I stand with the Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium and all those that refuse to let the world forget what happened at the Trinity Site in July 1945. It is past time the U.S. government took full responsibility for the harm it has wrought on our Downwinder and other impacted communities, and this bill marks a major step in the right direction toward the compensation and recognition they deserve,"" said Vasquez. ""By cutting red tape for claimants, extending the filing period by 15 years, covering additional diseases caused by radiation, and so much more, this bill will make a meaningful difference in the lives of Downwinder communities in New Mexico and beyond, and I am proud to support it.""

“This legislation brings together a strong bipartisan coalition of Members of Congress, survivors, advocates, and communities who have refused to give up this fight,” said Rep. James Moylan (R-Guam). “Together, our voices are stronger, and together, we will keep fighting until every American harmed by radiation exposure receives the justice they have been denied. I’m not backing down until we get this across the finish line for the people of Guam who were impacted and all those still left behind.”

The Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act of 2026 would continue and significantly expand RECA.The bill would increase compensation to a $150,000 lump sum, allow for reimbursement for documented out-of-pocket medical costs, and provide previously successful claimants the ability to be fully compensated for the maximum amount. It also adds additional cancers and diseases into the specified disease list for RECA claims and allows use of affidavits to prove physical presence, contraction of a specified disease, participation in testing, cleanup, response efforts, and employment history to make it easier for claimants to successfully apply for their RECA benefits. This landmark piece of legislation will extend the filing deadline and RECA trust fund for an additional 15 years giving newly eligible applicants in New Mexico from last year’s expansion more time to apply for the benefit.

This builds on Rep. Vasquez’s success in passing the Downwinder Commemoration Act into law through the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, requiring the Department of Defense to establish monuments to the Downwinder community at White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base.

In 1945, a secret nuclear test at the Trinity Site exposed hundreds of thousands of New Mexicans to radioactive fallout without warning, contaminating land, livestock, and communities across the state. For decades, these Downwinders suffered serious health impacts without recognition — until 2025, when the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act was finally expanded to include New Mexicans in a huge win.

Rep. Vasquez has long worked closely with the Downwinder community to secure the long-overdue recognition and compensation they are owed, and he will continue to do so.

###",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-named-one-most-bipartisan-members-congress,Rep. Vasquez Named One of the Most Bipartisan Members of Congress,2026-08-17,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. – On August 17, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) was awarded the most bipartisan member of New Mexico’s Congressional Delegation.

“I’m proud to receive one of the highest scores for bipartisanship in Congress because since day one, I’ve been working for everyone in my district, not any party or any special interest,” said Vasquez. “Right now, New Mexicans are struggling through a worsening economy and massive corruption in Washington – they want someone who will work for them, not their party or the president. I’m willing to work with anyone across the aisle who is serious about lowering costs, making healthcare and housing affordable, reducing crime, and protecting our public lands. I’ve proven that, and I’ll continue working on behalf of the people who elected me.”

This is the second time in a row Rep. Vasquez has received an “A” from Bridge Grades, a nonprofit report card for Congress, for his ongoing willingness to break party ranks and work with anyone to deliver commonsense wins for New Mexicans. Vasquez’s bipartisanship score ranked higher than over 90% of all Members of Congress.

Vasquez was also ranked as one of the most effective freshman Democrats in Congress during his first term by the Center for Effective Lawmaking, based on his record of passing legislation and working to deliver results for New Mexico.

Rep. Vasquez’s many bipartisan accomplishments include:

Founding the Bipartisan Public Lands Caucus to stop the selloff of our public lands, expand recreation opportunities, and ensure these spaces are preserved for future generations

Passing the bipartisan Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act into law, signed by President Trump, to strengthen the aerial wildfire suppression fleet and better combat the year-round threat of catastrophic wildfires

Leading the effort to pass the bipartisan Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025, which was signed into law, restoring $9 million in annual federal support for rural New Mexico counties to fund essential infrastructure like roads and schools

Securing nine wins for New Mexico in the 2026 Farm Bill, and was one of only 14 Democrats to vote for its passage in the House, including bipartisan language to stop the Administration from undercutting New Mexican cattle ranchers

Introducing his bipartisan Secure Our Skies Drone Safety Act, endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, to ensure that law enforcement agencies’ use of drones and counter-drone technology are keeping pace with rapidly evolving threats to public safety and national security

Leading and passing the bipartisan Fix Our Forest Act to address wildfire impacts by allowing agencies to work together to tackle wildfire risks

Championing the bipartisan Parity for Tribal Educators Act to address teacher shortages in Indian Country

Passing the Combatting Organized Retail Crime Act out of the House, a bill Vasquez co-led to keep products on the shelves, not behind lock and key

###",1,2026-08-18T05:27:41Z,2026-08-18T05:29:06Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-presses-administration-return-tariff-taxes-new-mexicans-not,"Rep. Vasquez Presses Administration to Return Tariff Taxes to New Mexicans, Not Corporations",2026-08-13,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. – On August 12, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney Scott demanding that they push corporations to return the money from the Administration’s illegal tariffs to the consumers who paid for them.

The cost of the President’s tariffs was paid by consumers in the form of higher prices – costing Americans about $1,000 last year. However, corporations that received a refund are not required to provide those refunds back to everyday consumers – effectively stealing money from New Mexico families, who are already under pressure from higher costs as a result of the failing war in Iran.

“It’s simple: this Administration and the corporations it paid out owe each and every New Mexican $1,000,” said Vasquez.

“More tariffs are the exact opposite of what American families need as they grapple with the cost increases caused by this Administration’s reckless actions, including soaring gas prices due to the war in Iran and skyrocketing healthcare and utility bill costs because of the Republican tax law,” demanded Vasquez in the letter. “The very least your agencies should do is work to ensure that corporations receiving refunds take actions to pass relief to American consumers and stop the reckless tariffs that are continuing to drive up prices.”

Read the full letter HERE.

Since introducing his Affordability Agenda to lower the high cost of living in New Mexico, the Congressman has:

Introduced the Tax Relief from Tariffs and High Costs Act to offer a fully refundable 10% tax credit to households making under $100,000 to offset rising prices — under this bill, a New Mexican making $70,000 could expect around $700 back in their pocket to offset higher prices caused by tariffs.

Cosponsored the Capping Prescription Costs Act, which caps annual prescription drug costs at $2,000 for individuals and $4,000 for families with private health insurance plans.

Cosponsored two bills — the Bipartisan Families First Housing Act and the Stop Wall Street Landlords Act — to address New Mexico’s housing affordability crisis by cracking down on greedy, corporate landlords to ensure hardworking New Mexicans have a fair shot at homeownership.

Has introduced legislation to roll back harmful cuts to food assistanceenacted under the Republican tax law, fighting to feed our veterans, seniors, children, and hardworking families.

Introduced the Energy Bills Relief Act to bring down utility bills for hardworking New Mexicans by cutting red tape, speeding up permitting processes to get more energy projects online, expanding the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program and more.

Supported the Tipped Income Protection and Support (TIPS) Act to permanently end tax on tips for those making under $112,500.

Introduced the Boost the Middle Class Act to increase eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit, allowing more working New Mexican families to receive higher tax refunds each year.

Pushed for the passage of his Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act, which would crack down on rent price gouging and utilities neglect by predatory investors who have purchased 2,500 or more manufactured housing units since 2015.

###",1,2026-08-14T06:13:05Z,2026-08-14T06:14:08Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-stands-veterans-socorro-marking-pact-act-anniversary,"Rep. Vasquez Stands With Veterans in Socorro, Marking PACT Act Anniversary",2026-08-12,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SOCORRO N.M. – To mark the fourth anniversary of the PACT Act, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) met with veterans in Socorro to discuss pressing issues including access to healthcare, affordable housing, and ensuring that veterans in rural areas continue to have access to the benefits they’ve earned.

“Socorro veterans have come together to build a network of community and support, and I’m grateful to be able to sit down with them and talk shop about the federal issues that impact veterans and their care and benefits,” said Vasquez. “I’ve made supporting veterans a cornerstone of my work in Congress and I’ll continue to go to bat for them in the face of extreme cuts and changes at the VA to strengthen their access to healthcare, housing, reintegration, education and workforce opportunities — especially in rural communities.”

“What struck me, I’ve only been in Socorro for about a year and 8 months, but Congressman [Vasquez] you’re the first one to come out and talk, to my knowledge, to veterans to hear their concerns. So pretty awesome that we’re celebrating that,” said Manny Gonzales, CEO of Socorro Electric and Sergeant Major (Ret.). “As a recipient of the PACT Act, I didn't know it was the anniversary date – it really means a lot for you to come out here.”

The PACT Act passed in 2022 and expanded VA healthcare and benefits for millions of veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, radiation, and other toxic substances during their military service.

Rep. Vasquez sat down with:

Ravi Bhasker, Mayor of Socorro

Manny Gonzales, CEO of Socorro Electric and Sergeant Major (Ret.)

Sergeant Major Eugene McPeek (Ret.), VFW 1389 Commander

Mack Dyer, NM VFW Army Department Commander

Roxann Scott, Co-founder of Forget Me Not Veterans Park

Daun Medaris, Co-founder of Forget Me Not Veterans Park

Joe Gonzales, Socorro County Commissioner Chairman

Peter Romero, Socorro City Councilor

Rep. Vasquez’s advocacy reflects his ongoing commitment to supporting veterans and active-duty servicemembers. His previous work includes:

Spearheading the TRICARE Travel Improvement Act, which Vasquez led and got passed into law with bipartisan support through the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act. The bill lowers the mileage requirement for TRICARE travel reimbursement from 100 miles to 75 miles — helping military families in rural communities more easily access medical care.

The Feed Our Veterans Act, legislation Vasquez introduced and fought for during the most recent Farm Bill markup, to combat food insecurity among veterans and protect them from new burdensome SNAP work requirements introduced under the Republican tax law last summer.

Signed a bipartisan discharge petition to require a House vote on the Major Richard Star Act, legislation that would allow combat-injured veterans to receive both their full military retirement pay and VA disability compensation.

Voted in support of the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act to obtain critical funding that would improve the quality of life for veterans and make substantial investments in infrastructure to support the readiness of active-duty servicemembers in New Mexico.

###",1,2026-08-13T06:17:16Z,2026-08-13T06:18:13Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-helps-introduce-bill-ban-scam-advertisements-social-media,Rep. Vasquez Helps Introduce Bill to Ban Scam Advertisements on Social Media,2026-08-10,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) co-sponsored the bipartisan, commonsense SCAM Act, a bill that would require social media companies to take action to prevent fraudulent and deceptive ads on their platforms. The bill would also strengthen accountability for those who perpetrate scams , giving the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and state law enforcement agencies more support to enforce consumer protection laws and stop scams from happening.

“Too many Americans are falling for scam advertising on social media, getting ripped off by fraudsters and fake companies,” said Vasquez. “Social media companies should follow the same standards as every other advertiser and verify the authenticity of what they’re promoting. That’s why I strongly support this bill to regulate tech companies and give law enforcement the tools they need to go after scammers.”

Rep. Vasquez has worked to hold social media companies accountable for dangerous behavior on their sites that impacts our communities:

Sent a letter to Big Tech CEOs at Meta, SnapChat, and Telegram demanding that they take action to curb illegal gun sales and cyber bullying on their platforms. This letter was sent after local law enforcement officers flagged illegal gun sales and bullying on these platforms as a driver of youth violence in New Mexico communities.

Cosponsor of the Combating Cartels on Social Media Act to require DHS to develop and implement a national strategy to combat illicit recruitment of American citizens through social media and introduced the No More Narcos Actto create a coordinated educational campaign led by the Department of Justice to teach middle and high school students within 100 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border about the dangers of working with cartels

SupportsSammy’s Law, a bipartisan, commonsense bill to bolster youth online safety by giving parents tools to help ensure their children are not using social media platforms to engage in drug deals and other dangerous behaviors.

###",1,2026-08-11T05:54:29Z,2026-08-11T05:56:25Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-warns-fight-protect-new-mexico-water-dhs-not-over-demands-answers,"Rep. Vasquez Warns Fight to Protect New Mexico Water From DHS is Not Over, Demands Answers on Existing Wells for Ranchers",2026-08-06,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On August 5, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) demanded answers from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regarding high-capacity groundwater wells that have already been drilled by federal border wall contractors in Luna County, warning that the fight to protect New Mexican ranchers’ water rights is far from over.

Following concerns raised by Rep. Vasquez, local ranchers, and community stakeholders, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently directed contractors to stop drilling additional wells. However, in a letter sent to DHS Secretary Mullin today, Rep. Vasquez said the latest directive from CBP does not address ranchers’ critical unanswered questions about the wells that have already been drilled in the area and fails to bar CBP from pumping hundreds of gallons of water from the existing wells.

“U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently ordered contractors to stop drilling new wells following concerns raised by my office, ranchers, and stakeholders. However, CBP’s order does not undo the unauthorized drilling that has already occurred, provide clarity around whether the existing wells will continue to be pumped, or provide clarity on how much water will be needed for the broader project,” Vasquez said in the letter, adding, “My constituents and I support securing our border. But the federal government does not get to disregard state law, threaten private property and water rights, and expect New Mexicans to accept it without protecting their land and resources. Ranchers, landowners, and local officials continue to be left in the dark while DHS contractors move forward with a project that could jeopardize scarce groundwater resources during a severe drought.”

Following continued conversations with New Mexico ranchers, Rep. Vasquez called for an in-person meeting in Luna County with DHS and CBP officials, affected ranchers and landowners, local officials, the New Mexico Office of the State Engineer, and his office.

“New Mexico’s ranching families embrace the commitment to a secure border, but the work must be done in a way that respects private property, protects our scarce groundwater resources, and keeps affected landowners informed. Ranchers in Luna and Hidalgo Counties deserve clear answers about the scope of this project and its potential impacts. We support bringing the responsible federal officials together with local ranchers and officials to address those concerns,” said Tom Paterson, President of the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association.

Rep. Vasquez and local ranchers are seeking from DHS answers on:

Whether DHS contractors will be required to properly cap existing wells and how CBP will verify compliance

How much water has already been pumped and how much additional water the broader project will require

Whether any additional wells are planned or will be drilled in the future

What steps DHS is taking to ensure contractors comply with state law and protect New Mexico’s water and property rights

Why DHS is pursuing extensive concrete road construction in this rural area and whether less intrusive border security options have been considered

This latest push builds on Rep. Vasquez’s ongoing efforts to protect ranchers’ water rights in southern New Mexico.

On July 10, Rep. Vasquez pressed the Secretaries of the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Agriculture for answers and action, stating in a letter, “I support securing our border. But it can be done without threatening ranchers, jeopardizing local water supplies, or ignoring the Americans who have stewarded this land for generations.”

On July 22, Rep. Vasquez raised the issue on the House floor, demanding DHS stop stealing ranchers’ water and stating, “For generations, ranching families in this border community have relied on water from the Mimbres and Hachita Basins to sustain their herds and way of life. And when the feds needed water, they bought it or trucked it in. Then they said, ‘Why buy it, when we can steal it?’ Our ranchers follow the state’s water laws. DHS doesn’t, and it appears they don’t care.”

###",1,2026-08-07T06:11:19Z,2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-demands-dot-and-dod-briefing-following-preliminary-report-deadly,Rep. Vasquez Demands DOT and DOD Briefing Following Preliminary Report on Deadly New Mexico Plane Crash,2026-08-05,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Department of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth demanding answers about the coordination between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Department of Defense (DoD) following a deadly plane crash in southern New Mexico impacted by military jamming technology. While the NTSB investigation has yet to determine the final cause of the crash, preliminary reports indicate that multiple aircrafts experienced navigational issues in the region while jamming technology was in use, as well as that the pilot of the plane that crashed was forced to manage a rapid series of incoming communications related to the jamming while also attempting to fly the aircraft.

Vasquez’s request follows a preliminary National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report indicating that military jamming technology was being tested at White Sands Missile Range when the pilot of a medical transport aircraft reported navigational issues before the fatal crash near Ruidoso in May. The incident came just months after the February closure of El Paso airspace caused by inadequate coordination between the FAA, Customs and Border Protection, and the DoD during testing of military counter-drone technology.

“New Mexicans deserve safety in the sky, especially those flying to deliver critical medical care. I have been briefed by the NTSB chair and regional officials on the incident in Ruidoso, and military technology definitely had a role to play in the flight path of this tragic crash,” said Vasquez. “If there were other missteps by this Administration or the Department of Defense, the American people deserve answers, and the safety of civilians flying near protected airspace must be guaranteed.”

In the letter sent today, Rep. Vasquez requests a joint briefing from the Department of Transportation and Department of Defense by September 6, 2026, to explain their coordination procedures and answer questions regarding:

Notification procedures for military testing that could affect civilian aviation

FAA coordination with air traffic controllers, airports, and airlines during military testing

Safety protocols for civilian aircraft operating near military technology testing

Communication procedures between air traffic controllers and the Department of Defense

Training provided to air traffic controllers when military testing may affect civilian flights

Coordination between the FAA, DoD, and NTSB during the ongoing investigation

Rep. Vasquez continues to lead Congressional oversight efforts following multiple aviation incidents affecting southern New Mexico, including:

Securing an NTSB briefing on July 14 after demanding greater transparency and answers about the deadly Ruidoso plane crash

Pressing the FAA and Department of Defense for accountability following the February closure of El Paso airspace

Successfully securing passage of an amendment to the FY2027 National Defense Authorization Act requiring the Department of Defense to improve coordination with the FAA before testing military technologies that could impact civilian aviation

###",1,2026-08-06T07:37:31Z,2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-announces-34-million-public-safety-investments-new-mexico-law,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Announces $3.4 Million in Public Safety Investments for New Mexico Law Enforcement,2026-07-31,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) recently announced over $3.4 million in federal funding for the New Mexico Department of Public Safety to combat gun violence, drug trafficking, substance abuse, and other violent crimes to improve public safety across New Mexico.

Specifically, Vasquez announced the following federal funding to support state, local, and Tribal law enforcement agencies in New Mexico:

Over $1.4 million for the New Mexico Department of Public Safety through the Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program (Byrne SCIP) to combat gun violence, suicide, behavioral health crises, and threats of targeted violence across New Mexico.

Over $2 million for the New Mexico Department of Public Safety through the Byrne JAG Statewide Public Safety Initiative to combat violent crime, drug trafficking, and firearm-related violence using a data-driven approach, especially in local, state, and Tribal jurisdictions with elevated crime rates.

“I will always fight to bring money home to New Mexico to make our streets safer, and this latest $3.4 million win will combat gun violence, suicide, drug trafficking, and other violent crimes in our communities through a smart, data-driven approach,” said Vasquez.

Earlier this year, Vasquez secured over $9 billion in public safety funding for state and local law enforcement to keep our kids safe, combat cartels, and support crime victims through the FY26 Commerce, Justice and Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill.

Rep. Vasquez has a strong history of successfully securing funding to keep New Mexicans safer, including:

Secured $1.06 million for the Albuquerque Police Department to deploy morepublic safety cameras for the “Real Time Crime Center,” strengthening crime prevention, intervention, and investigation efforts across the city and in Albuquerque Public Schools.

Secured $500,000 for Bernalillo County to invest in advanced public safety technology, including gunshot detection systems, improving law enforcement efficiency and crime response speed.

Secured $1.4 million for the Boys and Girls Club of Las Cruces to renovate the facility and provide Las Cruces youth a safe space to learn, grow, and relax outside of school hours.

Secured$250,000 for public safety in Carlsbad to make key infrastructure and public safety technology upgrades to the Carlsbad Police Department (CPD) Main Station.

Secured $1 million for new streetlights and infrastructure in Las Cruces through the Lift Up Las Cruces Project, to improve pedestrian safety at night.

###",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-helps-secure-29-million-infrastructure-upgrades-and-economic,Rep. Vasquez Helps Secure $2.9 Million for Infrastructure Upgrades and Economic Growth in Luna County,2026-07-31,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 31, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) announced that he helped secure $2.9 million in new federal funding for Luna County to make critical infrastructure upgrades for Columbus and Deming and grow its economy.

A 2017 Luna County planning study found that growing trade between the United States and Mexico had strained regional ports of entry and increased heavy freight traffic through downtown Columbus and Deming on aging roads not designed to carry that weight. This $2.9 million in Department of Transportation funding will help Luna County advance plans to develop an industrial park near the Columbus Land Port of Entry, improve roads to protect truckers and residents, and better connect local businesses to regional trade networks.

“Luna County has a great opportunity to grow its international trade with Mexico and create more jobs and revenue, but the county’s roads and infrastructure must be improved. I’ve been working to ensure Luna County has the funding it needs to grow its economy without sacrificing the safety of local residents and truckers alike,” said Vasquez. “I’m proud to have brought home this $2.9 million infrastructure investment for Luna County, and I look forward to continuing to work with the County to strengthen regional trade, create good-paying jobs, and build a stronger future for Luna County.”

“With this BUILD award, we can continue to move forward with our regional plans for a future industrial park at the Columbus Land Port of Entry and the Village of Columbus, and Luna County can set the stage for the largest strategic expansion and development the County has ever seen, resulting in additional trade, thousands of new jobs, and increased financial benefits to the community. With patience and persistence, that dream is closer to reality than ever before.” said Chris Brice, Luna County Manager.

This year, Rep. Vasquez has already brought home millions in federal funding for critical infrastructure improvements across the district, including $9.9 million in Community Project Funding for public safety and infrastructure improvements.

This legislation builds on Rep. Vasquez’s long record of supporting road safety and surface transportation improvement:

Rep. Vasquez is a cosponsor of the Agricultural and Rural Road Improvement Program Act, which would establish a program to provide $275 million annually in federal highway funds to repair and enhance rural roads and bridges.

Rep. Vasquez is a cosponsor of the Bridges And Safety Infrastructure for Community Success Act or the BASICS Act, which would increase funding for vital transportation programs, continue robust federal investments in bridges, give local communities access to annual bridge and safety funds, and increase funding for planning and design in urban and rural areas.

Rep. Vasquez is a cosponsor of the Stop Underrides Act 2.0, whichwould prevent fatal truck-trailer crashes by mandating side underride guards on new commercial trucks. It requires the DOT to finalize rules, update crash data, and restart the Advisory Committee on Underride Protection.

###",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-celebrates-crossing-6-million-returned-new-mexicans-new,Rep. Vasquez Celebrates Crossing $6 Million Returned to New Mexicans at New Albuquerque Office Opening,2026-07-28,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – On July 28, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) celebrated opening a new constituent service and field office in Albuquerque alongside the milestone of surpassing $6 million returned to constituents through constituent services. Since being sworn in in 2023, Vasquez’s offices in Albuquerque and Las Cruces have helped over 2,300 constituents solve issues with and collect payments they were owed by the federal government. These successful cases have included navigating red tape and delays with VA benefits, Social Security payments, tax returns, RECA claims, and more. If you or a loved one could use one of these services, you can request help here.

“I’m thrilled to get the doors open on our new Albuquerque office so that my team and I can keep delivering results for New Mexican families,” said Vasquez. “I’m also thrilled to announce that since I've been in Congress, I’ve returned over $6 million from the federal government to my constituents that they were owed. New Mexicans deserve an accessible, accountable government that works for them – and I’ll continue to fight slow bureaucracy and cut red tape so that they can get the money they deserve.”

During the event, three constituents shared how the Congressman’s office helped them resolve long-delayed issues with federal agencies:

Paul, an Air Force veteran whose nearly $10,000 in delayed TRICARE medical claims were resolved with assistance from Rep. Vasquez's office.

Alfonso, a Belen constituent whose spouse's long-delayed CHAMPVA health coverage was approved after intervention from Rep. Vasquez's office.

Mindi, an Albuquerque constituent who received critical Social Security records needed to complete a RECA compensation claim with help from Rep. Vasquez's office. Rep. Vasquez’s office has delivered more than $300,000 in RECA claims.

Vasquez’s office also frequently holds Mobile Office Hours to assist constituents in rural communities and cities throughout New Mexico – from Belen, to Anthony, to Deming, you can find the office available to help. For more information on how to attend mobile office hours or visit the office for assistance, you can follow Rep. Vasquez on Instagram and Facebook.

###",1,2026-07-29T07:41:48Z,2026-07-30T07:34:08Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-and-rep-guest-introduce-legislation-boost-tribal-schools-and,Rep. Stansbury and Rep. Guest Introduce Legislation to Boost Tribal Schools and Teacher Pay,2026-07-28,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Melanie Stansbury (D-NM-01) and Michael Guest (R-MS-03) introduced the Indigenous Students Excel through Parity Act, bipartisan legislation that directs the Secretary of the Interior to recommend updates to the Indian School Equalization Formula, which governs funding for Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) funded schools. This includes funding for 183 schools across 64 tribal communities in 23 states that serve nearly 47,000 students through BIE-operated and Tribally controlled schools.

For years, BIE-funded schools have been severely underfunded by the federal government, from operational funding to construction and maintenance of schools. This has left schools without adequate funding to meet student needs and left teachers and educators without parity in teacher salaries compared to other school systems. The Indigenous Students Excel through Parity Act works to address this issue by reexamining the formula funds that fund these schools and discovering ways to ensure teachers and staff have competitive salaries, small and rural Tribal schools have adequate funding, and new revenue sources are identified to bring BIE-funded schools into parity with other school systems.

“Every student deserves the opportunity to thrive, and every teacher deserves to be paid what they’re worth. This bill is to ensure Bureau of Indian Education and Tribally controlled schools have the resources they need to succeed,” said Rep. Stansbury. “I'm proud to introduce the bipartisan Indigenous Students Excel through Parity Act, legislation to advance BIE funding, support Native students and teachers, and create new educational opportunities. Working with our Tribal nations and schools, we are fighting every day to ensure our schools have the resources they need!”

“I am honored to co-lead the ISEP Act with Congresswoman Stansbury,"" said Rep. Guest. “Our students deserve access to a quality education. Schools funded through the Bureau of Indian Education often face unique funding, staffing, and rural challenges that can make it difficult to recruit and retain qualified educators. This bipartisan bill will help identify those disparities and provide Congress with the information needed to improve educational opportunities for our Native American students.”

Key provisions of the legislation include:

A Formula Study: Within one year of enactment, the Secretary of the Interior, in coordination with the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs and the Director of the BIE, will evaluate updates to the Indian School Equalization Formula, including alternative methods for equitable distribution of funds.

A Competitive Compensation Benchmark: The study will evaluate a compensation standard equal to the higher of either the highest quartile or average state-by-state salaries for non-Bureau public school staff, or the rate of basic compensation for Department of Defense overseas teaching positions. \

Consideration for Small and Rural Schools: The study will weigh factors specific to tribally controlled schools, schools with fewer than 100 students, and schools located in rural areas.

A Report to Congress: The Secretary will submit a report to Congress and make it publicly available to Indian Tribes describing the adequacy of the current formula and program, along with recommendations for improvement.

A Revenue Source Study: Within one year of enactment, the Secretary will also conduct a separate study to identify potential revenue sources to help bring Bureau-funded schools into parity with other school systems.

The bill is endorsed by key Tribal organizations including the National Indian Education Association (NIEA) and the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI).

Companion legislation was introduced in the United States Senate by Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY).

You can read the full text of the bill here.

Additionally, Rep. Melanie Stansbury also introduced the Indigenous Students Excel through Parity Act (II), which would enact changes in formula funding studied in the bipartisan Indigenous Students Excel through Parity Act described above.

This bill actualizes the Secretary of the Interior’s recommended updates to the Indian School Equalization Formula, requiring the Interior Department to update the Indian School Equalization Formula within one year of the bill’s enactment. Additionally, this bill would ensure that Tribally controlled, small, and rural schools have access to more equitable funding by bringing BIE teacher salaries in line with top-quartile state pay. The bill also requires the President to request full funding for this program every single year in his annual budget request, protecting Tribal funding.

The full text of the Indigenous Students Excel through Parity Act (II) can be found here.

Rep. Stansbury held a virtual press call on these two bills. Watch it here.

###",1,2026-08-11T05:54:29Z,2026-08-11T05:56:25Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=655,"Leger Fernández, Pingree Condemn Rushed Effort to Gut Tribal Consultation and Historic Preservation Protections",2026-07-24,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs, and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, condemned a proposal released by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) that would rush through sweeping changes to the regulations implementing Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.

“History is not an obstacle for development. It is the story of who we are, and it should not be bulldozed without thought,” said Leger Fernández. “This week, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) will vote on drastic changes to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act regulations that will gut historic preservation reviews and tribal consultation. Section 106 is one of the most important promises our nation has made: before the federal government destroys, it must listen to the people from the community; listen to tribes and local governments. But the Trump administration wants to destroy that promise. By gutting tribal consultation and stripping protections for places of deep cultural and spiritual significance, they are saying that corporate profits are more important than our shared history. Worse still, they want to rush the proposed changes, giving ACHP members only a week to review and vote on sweeping changes. I call on the ACHP to protect our history and rescind its rushed and ill-conceived changes to the Section 106 historic preservation regulations.”

“The ACHP’s decision to rewrite Section 106—behind closed doors, on an absurdly rushed timeline, and without meaningful input from states, Tribes, preservation experts, or the public—is beyond reckless and will dramatically weaken one of our nation’s most important historic preservation laws,” Congresswoman Pingree said. “For nearly 60 years, the National Historic Preservation Act has ensured that communities have a voice before the federal government moves forward with projects that could affect the places, stories, and cultural resources that help tell our nation’s story. These changes would make it easier for federal agencies to ignore public input, sideline Tribes, and rush ahead with projects that could permanently damage irreplaceable historic and cultural resources. Unfortunately, that is exactly how this Administration operates. They have shown time and again that they’re not interested in respecting the full scope of America’s history—only in fast-tracking the president’s vanity projects and giving sweetheart deals to donors and supporters. As the Ranking Member on the House Appropriations subcommittee that oversees the ACHP, I will fight every attempt to weaken these critical safeguards or silence the communities and experts who deserve to have a seat at the table when it comes to preserving our shared history.”

Background:

On Friday, July 17, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) released a proposal that would make sweeping changes to the regulations implementing Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. The ACHP provided only one week for members to review and vote on 50 pages of proposed regulatory changes.

The proposed changes are a stark departure from current practices that would:

Severely limit the inclusion of states and local governments in the historic preservation process within their own jurisdictions; Make tribal consultation an optional rather than required step for nearly all federal projects; Make public participation in the historic preservation process at the discretion of federal agencies; and exclude traditional cultural properties from historic preservation protections that are not “geographically compact,” thereby limiting protection for many tribal cultural resources.

The ACHP is an independent federal agency consisting of 24 members representing federal agencies, state and local governments, tribal governments, and historic preservation organizations. The ACHP advises the President and Congress on historic preservation and oversees the Section 106 process, which forms the bedrock of historic preservation in the United States.

###",1,2026-07-25T07:13:44Z,2026-07-25T07:15:09Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-vasquez-defends-luna-county-ranchers-water-rights-and-livelihoods,ICYMI: Rep. Vasquez Defends Luna County Ranchers’ Water Rights and Livelihoods on the House Floor,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 22, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) took to the House floor to condemn the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) reckless drilling of wells in Luna County that is stealing water ranchers desperately need.

“For generations, ranching families in this border community have relied on water from the Mimbres and Hachita Basins to sustain their herds and way of life. And when the feds needed water, they bought it or trucked it in. Then they said, ‘Why buy it, when we can steal it?’ Our ranchers follow the state’s water laws. DHS doesn’t, and it appears they don’t care.” said Vasquez.

Watch the full speech HERE.

Image",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-statement-against-insider-trading-loopholes-members-congress,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Statement Against Insider Trading Loopholes for Members of Congress and the Republican Attack on American Citizens’ Right to Vote,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 22, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released the following statement on H.R. 7008, a MAGA-led bill that would allow members of Congress to keep the stocks they own and continue to profit off of their positions of power. The bill — which received bipartisan opposition — aims to impose excessive and unworkable voter identification requirements just weeks before the 2026 general election, sowing chaos and exposing voters to privacy risks by requiring them to mail photocopies of their personally identifiable information (such as a driver’s license or Social Security information) if they wish to exercise their right to vote by mail.

“I support banning members of Congress from trading all stocks and profiting off their positions of power, and I support commonsense voter ID requirements to keep our elections secure. Unfortunately, this MAGA-led bill, H.R. 7008, does neither,” said Vasquez. “Under this bill, rich members of Congress are permitted to keep their existing stocks, buy new ones, and continue using their power to get richer through insider trading. I support the Restore Trust in Congress Act and the TRUST in Congress Act, comprehensive bills that truly tackle the corruption problem in D.C. rather than this partisan show-vote that does nothing to actually hold politicians accountable. ”

The loopholes baked into H.R. 7008 allow members of Congress to continue to use their power to amass wealth. Under the bill:

Members would be able to keep stocks they currently own.

Members would be permitted to buy new privately traded stocks.

Members could continue to profit off of financial vehicles like cryptocurrency.

It also does not impose any anti-corruption restrictions on the executive branch.

New voting requirements and concerns under H.R. 7008 include:

A new photo ID requirement for individuals voting in-person in federal elections, eroding voting rights for American citizens who do not have driver’s licenses or passports, as well as those who rely on Tribal IDs that lack expiration dates and photos

New privacy concerns, as Americans who want to exercise their right to vote by mail must now comply with one of three options: 1) mailing a photocopy of their driver’s license or passport alongside their ballot, 2) mailing their Social Security information and a signed affidavit alongside their ballot, or 3) mailing a notarized attestation alongside their ballot — all of which impose new red tape and put personally-identifiable information at risk

“The Native American Rights Fund opposes imposing new voting requirements shortly before an election, especially while Native Americans nationwide still lack equal voter services. This bill is flawed in several ways, including its arbitrary requirement that Tribal IDs include expiration dates,” said the Native American Rights Fund. “Obviously, Native American Tribal membership does not expire, so Tribal IDs often do not include expiration dates. Instead of creating new barriers for Native voters, we urge Congress to address the urgent need for basic voting services in Indian Country.”

“Congress should pass a clean bill to ban insider trading—not use it as a vehicle to add a national voter ID mandate. These are separate issues that deserve separate votes. Tell your Representative to vote NO on this package and demand a clean insider trading bill,” said Keaton Sunchild, Federal Director of Government and Political Relations of Western Native Voice.

Rep. Vasquez supports reasonable, nationwide standards for voter ID that don’t sacrifice American rights and privacy, such as the Freedom to Vote Act. He is a cosponsor of the Restore Trust in Congress Act and the TRUST in Congress Act — two comprehensive, bipartisan bills to crack down on corruption and insider trading by D.C. politicians.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-introduces-chile-act-support-new-mexicos-specialty-crop-farmers,Rep. Vasquez Introduces CHILE Act to Support New Mexico’s Specialty Crop Farmers,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 22, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the CHILE Act, a bill to deliver much-needed federal funding to New Mexico’s specialty crop farmers who produce staples like red and green chile, onions, tomatoes, and more. Specifically, the bill would provide $5 billion in direct assistance to specialty crop producers, require the Department of Agriculture to use the Specialty Crop Emergency Assistance Framework when providing direct assistance to specialty crop growers, and clarify that specialty crops include New Mexico’s fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and nursery crops.

Currently, USDA does not have a disaster assistance plan for specialty crop farmers. This bill would create a dedicated program and protect our farmers from increasingly common extreme weather events and economic instability.

“There’s nothing more New Mexican than our chile, but unfortunately the farmers who grow these beloved crops have been through a lot in recent years, from extreme weather to tariffs to economic turmoil. That’s exactly why I introduced the CHILE Act,” said Vasquez. “This bill would provide $5 billion in much-needed federal funding to our specialty crop growers and create disaster relief programs so they have the stability they need to stay on the land they love and grow the chiles, onions, and tomatoes that New Mexicans love to eat every day.”

This legislation is supported by the New Mexico Chile Association and Western Growers Association.

""The New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau appreciates the continued efforts of our congressional delegation and federal leaders to engage with the needs of New Mexico agriculture. We welcome the introduction of the CHILE Act of 2026 as an important conversation about strengthening support for specialty crop producers,"" said Josh Wood, Coordinator of Government Affairs for the New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau. ""New Mexico’s chile industry plays a vital role in our state’s economy and agricultural heritage, and we look forward to working with policymakers to ensure producers have access to practical, effective tools that help them navigate future challenges.""

This legislation builds on Rep. Vasquez’s long record of fighting for farmers and delivering real wins for New Mexico agriculture:

Rep. Vasquez secured several bipartisan winsin the process of passing this year’s Farm Bill through the House, including preventing the imposition of new red tape that would hinder growers’ access to the Specialty Crop Block Grant program.

Rep. Vasquez has held the USDA accountable countless times, including introducing his Honor Farmer Contracts Act, which ensures the USDA pays farmers what they’re owed.

He’s taken concerns directly from New Mexico’s farmers and ranchers to Washington and turned them into action through his Agriculture Advisory Group.

In January, Rep. Vasquez introduced the Farm and Family Relief Act to help farmers recover from chaos caused by the Administration’s reckless tariff policy.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-votes-expand-access-capital-new-mexico-small-businesses-and,Rep. Vasquez Votes to Expand Access to Capital for New Mexico Small Businesses and Strengthen Community Banks,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 21, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) voted in favor of the Main Street Capital Access Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen community banks, expand access to credit for small businesses in places like New Mexico, and support economic growth in overlooked rural communities.

“Small businesses are the heart of our economy in New Mexico, but too many entrepreneurs in small and rural communities are overlooked by Wall Street and struggle to get the financing they need to grow,” said Rep. Vasquez. “Community banks understand our communities because they live and work alongside the families and businesses they serve. They know our local small business owners personally, and they know what makes for a smart investment in communities like ours. This legislation gives local banks the tools to better compete with Wall Street institutions and megabanks while helping more small businesses, farmers, and families access the capital they need to succeed and grow our state’s economy.”

The Main Street Capital Access Act updates federal banking regulations for community banks, easing unnecessary burdens on smaller financial institutions while maintaining oversight of the banking system. The legislation also includes provisions to prevent the nation's largest banks from gaining an unfair advantage through acquisitions of failing institutions.

Specific measures in the bill include, among others:

Tailors banking regulations to the class and categories of each bank, reducing unnecessary red tape for smaller community banks so they can spend more time lending to local families and businesses instead of complying with one-size-fits-all rules.

Reduces unnecessary barriers for new and rural community banks by gradually phasing in capital requirements and adjusting the Community Bank Leverage Ratio (CBLR), allowing smaller banks to make more loans and invest in the communities they serve.

Creates a more balanced bank rating process, helping well-managed community banks to continue supporting local customers and businesses.

Directs the Federal Reserve to review its discount window — a critical tool used to support liquidity of financial institutions — to identify ways to better support community banks during times of financial stress.

Community banks play a critical role across New Mexico, particularly in rural communities where they often serve as the primary source of financing for local businesses, agricultural producers, and first-time homebuyers. By expanding lending capacity and modernizing outdated regulations, the bill is designed to increase investment in Main Street businesses and local economies.

Rep. Vasquez has consistently supported policies that strengthen small businesses, expand economic opportunity, and ensure rural communities have the resources they need to thrive:

Introduced the Honor and Hire Veteran Act, which would increase tax credits for businesses that hire veterans.

Boosted federal funding for small businesses by securing $500,000 to help upgrade 200 local businesses’ storefronts and surrounding infrastructure in the South Valley — improving safety, helping advertising efforts, and creating better spaces for customers, investors, and workers alike.

Introduced the Economic Opportunity for Border Communities Act, which would direct the Department of Commerce to develop a national strategy for strengthening economies along the U.S.-Mexico Border. This bill is supported by the Bipartisan Southwest Caucus and Border Industrial Association.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=651,VIDEO: N.M. Delegation Joins Pueblo Governors to Push for Permanent Protections for Chaco Canyon,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) and U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined the All Pueblo Council of Governors (APCG) at a press conference to call for permanent protection of Chaco Canyon.

Located in northwestern New Mexico, the Greater Chaco landscape is a region of great cultural, spiritual, and historical significance to many Pueblos and Tribes and contains living sacred sites. Chaco was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and is one of only 24 such sites in the United States.

Last week, the Trump administration announced a proposal to fully revoke a 20-year mineral withdrawal that has protected public lands surrounding the Chaco Culture National Historic Park, and only allowed 14 days for public comment. The N.M. Delegation released a statement strongly condemning the Trump administration’s actions.

This week, Heinrich, Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, led a N.M. Delegation letter urging U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to extend the public comment period to 90-days and conduct genuine Tribal consultation and extensive public engagement before revoking protections for the Chaco region. Most importantly, the Delegation urged Secretary Burgum to withdraw this proposal and leave Public Land Order No. 7923 in place. The Delegation also, once again, invited Secretary Burgum to visit Chaco before taking any action that would put this irreplaceable cultural landmark at risk.

VIDEO: The N.M. Delegation joins the All Pueblo Council of Governors to call for permanent protection of the Chaco Canyon Cultural Protection Zone, July 22, 2026.

“There is not a single molecule of gas worth sacrificing a landscape that holds more than 4,700 archaeological sites, the prayers and history of generations, and the living culture of Chaco Canyon,” said Leger Fernández, Ranking Member of the House Indian and Insular Affairs Subcommittee. “Secretary Burgum lied when he promised meaningful, in-person tribal consultation before any decision was made. Our Chaco Cultural Heritage Area Protection Act will permanently protect Chaco. In the meantime, we will use every tool at our disposal to stop the bulldozers from tearing up living history.”

“Chaco Canyon is not for sale! As one the most sacred places on the planet — the Greater Chaco Landscape has been a sacred landscape for Pueblo and Diné people since time immemorial,” said Stansbury. “The Trump Administration's plan to open these sacred places to oil and gas drilling is a direct attack to Tribal Sovereignty and New Mexico's history, cultures, and living traditions. I am proud to stand today and every day with the entire New Mexico delegation, the All Pueblo Council of Governors, Tribal leaders, advocates, and communities across our state to protect this irreplaceable landscape for generations to come. We ask the American people to stand with us — and please submit a public comment and help save Chaco Canyon.”

“Chaco is central to New Mexico’s identity — a living cultural landscape, a sacred place and an irreplaceable unit of our national public lands. The Administration’s attempt to revoke the protections of this landscape, built through years of consultation and community engagement, with just 14 days of public comment is disingenuous and disrespectful,” said Vasquez. “Secretary Burgum must withdraw this proposal and come to New Mexico to hear directly from Pueblo leaders. He has an open invitation to come to Chaco and meet with Pueblo leaders. We can support responsible energy development without sacrificing places like Chaco that, once damaged, will be lost forever.”

“Chaco Canyon is not for sale. New Mexico has an important role to play producing energy for the nation. We're the second largest producer of oil in the country, we produce far more electrons than we consume, and we have never had to sacrifice our most sacred places to do that — and we should not do that going forward,” said Heinrich. “Chaco Canyon is not just a place on a map. It is not a museum. It is not about what happened 1,000 years ago. It is about the future. It is about these governors and their communities, their identity, and their relationship to this sacred place that they use now. This is about our state's ability to stand up for what is right and moral. Our New Mexico Delegation stands arm in arm and shoulder to shoulder with these Tribal governors and their communities in standing up to protect this place. And we will fight that fight until we win.”

“Chaco Canyon is more than a place on a map — it is thousands of years of culture, history, and the enduring spirit of the Pueblo peoples. Protecting Chaco is our sacred responsibility. Once Chaco is damaged, it cannot be undone. That’s why we are standing together to make our voices heard,” said Luján. “I am deeply grateful for the Pueblo leaders whose leadership and tireless advocacy are at the heart of the fight to protect Chaco Canyon. Now is your turn to make your voice heard. Submit your comment today to tell the Trump administration to keep its hands off Chaco.”

The New Mexico Congressional Delegation has worked tirelessly to permanently protect Chaco Canyon.

Last week, the N.M. Delegation released a statement in response to the news that the Trump administration is proposing to fully revoke a 20-year mineral withdrawal that has protected public lands surrounding the Chaco Culture National Historic Park, and only allowing 14 days for public comment.

In April, the N.M. Delegation submitted a comment letter to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) urging the Trump administration to reverse course on its decision to initiate the process to undo a 20-year mineral withdrawal that has kept public lands in the Chaco Canyon Cultural Protection Zone off-limits to new oil and gas leasing. Earlier that month, the N.M. Delegation sent statements in opposition to the Trump administration only granting seven days to submit scoping comments.

Last November, Heinrich, Luján, and Stansbury hosted a press conference with Pueblo leaders on the actions needed to permanently protect the landscape.

Last September, the N.M. Delegation hosted a press conference in front of the U.S. Capitol with 20 Governors and leaders from the Santa Ana, Picuris, Cochiti, Zia, Tesuque, Acoma, Santo Domingo, and Laguna Pueblos to demand the Trump administration permanently protect Chaco Canyon, and to invite U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to visit the Greater Chaco landscape before deciding its fate. Watch the video of the full press conference here.

In June 2025, the N.M. Delegation sent a letter initially inviting Secretary Burgum to visit Chaco Canyon and engage directly with Tribal leaders and local communities to hear about the profound cultural and spiritual significance of this sacred landscape. Secretary Burgum issued the directive to begin revoking the Chaco protections without experiencing it firsthand. Following Secretary Burgum’s directive, the N.M. Delegation sent a letter urging the Trump administration to reverse course on its decision to initiate the process to fully revoke Chaco Canyon’s protections.",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=648,"Representative Leger Fernández, Attorney General Raúl Torrez Push New Legislation to Force DOJ to Release Remaining Epstein Files",2026-07-16,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC — Attorney General Raúl Torrez today voiced support for the Epstein Files Transparency Act II, bipartisan legislation sponsored by U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-New Mexico) Chair of the Democratic Women’s Caucus, Thomas Massie (R-Kentucky), Ro Khanna (D-California) to amend the Epstein Files Transparency Act. The bill gives state attorneys general, district attorneys, and survivors the right to sue the U.S. Department of Justice for withholding or redacting records, bars the department from invoking privilege to justify withholding files, and creates criminal penalties for federal officials who conceal, destroy, or falsify records covered by the Act.

New Mexico has pursued records related to Jeffrey Epstein's Zorro Ranch property for months. The U.S. Department of Justice has not fully responded to the state's records requests, leaving New Mexico's investigation without access to files that bear directly on whether New Mexico laws were broken.

""Survivors have waited too long for answers, and my office has waited too long for the federal government to turn over the unredacted records we need to complete our criminal investigation,"" said Attorney General Raúl Torrez. ""This legislation gives state law enforcement the access this investigation requires, and it gives survivors control over their own records. Every day of delay is another day survivors are denied the justice they are owed.""

""Todd Blanche and the Department of Justice have refused to release as many as 3 million Epstein files: they are hiding the truth from the American people and creating even more injustice and trauma for survivors,"" said Congresswoman Leger Fernández. ""When Trump’s administration does not comply with the law, there must be consequences. Attorney General Blanche is not fit to serve, should not be confirmed and should instead resign. In the meantime, we must pass this bill to put power where it belongs—with survivors. No administration, no Attorney General, and no Department of Justice is above the law.""

Torrez and Leger Fernandez are leading the fight to hold the U.S. Department of Justice accountable for failing to comply with the bipartisan Epstein Files Transparency Act. Torrez said the enforcement gap this bill closes exists because the Department of Justice has chosen delay and obstruction over compliance with the law as written.

""The Department of Justice has had every opportunity to follow the law and has instead chosen stonewalling,"" said Attorney General Raúl Torrez. ""This bill takes that choice away. Survivors deserve a process that works regardless of whether the Department of Justice decides to cooperate.""

The Epstein Files Transparency Act II:

Creates a private right of action allowing State Attorneys General, district attorneys, other authorized State officials, and victims to sue the U.S. Attorney General for unlawfully withholding, redacting, delaying, concealing, removing, or failing to publish Epstein-related records.

Gives victims the right to obtain full, unredacted records concerning themselves or the harm they suffered, including relevant FBI FD-302 reports.

Enforces compliance with the existing law by subjecting DOJ and FBI officials to existing federal criminal penalties for knowingly concealing, destroying, falsifying, withholding, or misrepresenting files.

Requires the Department of Justice to provide State and local prosecutors with unredacted records needed for investigations, prosecutions, and judicial proceedings, including secure access to classified materials.

Explicitly prohibits the invocation of common law privileges, including deliberative process privileges, to evade disclosure requirements included in the original EFTA.",1,2026-07-17T07:15:58Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-holds-briefing-national-transportation-safety-board-answers-deadly,Rep. Vasquez Holds Briefing with National Transportation Safety Board for Answers on Deadly Civilian Plane Crash Near Ruidoso,2026-07-16,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 14, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) met with National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) officials to help identify answers and accountability for the deadly medical plane crash that took place near Ruidoso in May, following reports that military testing may have played a role in the crash.

Following the tragic crash near Ruidoso, Rep. Vasquez requested a briefing from the NTSB to ensure appropriate steps are being taken to understand the cause of the accident, address any underlying safety issues, and protect New Mexicans from similar incidents in the future. On Tuesday, Rep. Vasquez received a briefing from NTSB Chairwoman Homendy and other NTSB officials, during which they shared that investigations are still underway and were delayed by the Seven Cabins Fire which engulfed the crash site following the accident.

“This week, I communicated with NTSB officials that a thorough investigation must be concluded to fully understand the cause of this tragic and fatal crash, and prevent future accidents in the future,” said Vasquez. “No pilot or their passengers should fly in uncertain conditions with multiple challenging circumstances that are preventable, but outside of their control. My prayers are with the families of those who passed and I promise them to get answers and prevent future tragedies.”

On May 14, 2026, a medical transport plane crashed near Ruidoso in the Capitan Mountains. The plane had taken off from Roswell at 11:52 p.m. with a final destination of the Sierra Blanca Regional Airport in Alto, New Mexico. However, at 12:15 a.m., the plane crashed, killing all four passengers onboard and sparking the Seven Cabins wildfire in the surrounding area, which has since burned over 31,000 acres. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced that the NTSB and FAA are investigating.

In mid-June, the NTSB released a preliminary report on the crash noting that the pilot of the aircraft was having navigational issues while jamming technology testing was concurrently underway by the Department of Defense at White Sands Missile Range.

The NTSB is responsible for conducting objective investigations into transportation safety incidents such as plane crashes and train derailments. They are also responsible for making safety recommendations and assisting victims and survivors of these disasters.

Vasquez has repeatedly worked to keep New Mexicans safe by holding the federal government accountable for aviation incidents impacting New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional district, including the abrupt El Paso airspace closure in February 2026:

On February 12, 2026, Reps. Vasquez and Escobar, as well as Senators Heinrich and Luján, demanded a classified briefing on the airspace closure.

In a hearing on March 17, 2026, Rep. Vasquez pressed DoD Assistant Secretary Joseph Humire for answers as to where the communications failure occurred and what steps the DoD was taking to prevent similar chaotic, dangerous situations from occurring in the future.

Vasquez also asked Humire about the risks counter-drone laser systems being used by the DoD posed to civilians and secured a commitment for a briefing from DoD officials on the incident, which took place on April 28, 2026.

On June 5, Vasquez secured a critical, bipartisan win in his ongoing fight to get the accountability and answers – an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act requiring the Department of Defense to provide a report on its coordination process with DHS and FAA, an explanation as to what caused the chaotic closure of the El Paso Airport in February, and details on how such incidents can be prevented in the future.

###",1,2026-07-17T07:15:58Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-statement-presidents-primetime-address-nation,Rep. Vasquez Statement on President’s Primetime Address to the Nation,2026-07-16,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 16, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released the following statement in response to the President’s primetime address to the nation:

“New Mexicans are suffering from the President’s failed economic policy — from skyrocketing gas prices to higher grocery costs to inflated healthcare — and the President is still focused on denying the 2020 election. I urge the President to focus on the pressing needs of all Americans and stop sowing doubt about the integrity of our elections and meddling with the midterms. The President’s focus should be on making Americans’ lives better, not jamming a voter disenfranchisement bill through Congress. New Mexicans see right through it.”

###",1,2026-07-17T07:15:58Z,2026-07-17T07:17:05Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=649,"Leger Fernández, Heinrich Lead New Mexico & Texas Democrats to Introduce Legislation Reversing Rate Cuts for Veterans’ Essential Homecare Services",2026-07-16,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) and U.S. led New Mexico and Texas congressional Democrats in introducing the Protecting Home-Based Care for Rural Veterans Act, legislation to reverse the Trump administration’s cuts to reimbursement rates for essential homecare services for veterans in New Mexico and Texas.

As of January 1, 2026, the reimbursement rate for veterans’ homecare services fell by nearly 20 percent in New Mexico and 43 percent in parts of Texas, which could result in homemaker and home health aide agency closures. Approximately 68,000 New Mexico veterans over the age of 65, in addition to many disabled veterans, rely on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare. Nationally, one in 10 of these veterans use at least one homecare service to maintain their independence and continue living in their own homes and communities.

The rate cuts come as the Trump administration is reportedly spending nearly $900 million a day on their war in Iran — putting their reckless war of choice above caring for veterans.

""Our veterans kept their promise to our country. We must keep ours to them. These reckless reimbursement cuts are making it harder for disabled veterans to receive the in-home care they rely on for everyday tasks like getting out of bed, bathing, getting dressed, or preparing meals. When home health providers can't afford to serve veterans, veterans pay a steep price. Our bill restores those cuts, brings transparency to how these rates are set, and makes sure the VA can never quietly pull the rug out from under veterans and their caregivers again,"" said Leger Fernández.

“Homecare services are not luxuries. They are earned benefits that allow disabled and elderly veterans to remain in their homes and live with dignity,” said Heinrich. “The Trump administration has repeatedly refused to reverse its cuts to VA homecare reimbursement rates in New Mexico — denying veterans the care they have earned. It is insulting to New Mexico’s veterans that VA Secretary Collins refuses to even talk with me and my colleagues to defend these cuts. Meanwhile, veterans are struggling to pay for gas and groceries because of Trump’s war with Iran. It's bullshit. That’s why I’m introducing my Protecting Home-Based Care for Rural Veterans Act to reverse Trump’s harmful cuts, ensure veterans get the care they are owed and need, and require the VA to be transparent about any future reductions.”

Specifically, the Protecting Home-Based Care for Rural Veterans Act will reverse the reimbursement rate reductions that occurred in 2026 and require the VA to notify Congress of any future rate reductions.

The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), Marc Veasey (D-Texas), Joaquin Castro (D-Texas), Vicente Gonzalez (D-Texas), Veronica Escobar (D-Texas), Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas), and Al Green (D-Texas).

“Our veterans and their families make the ultimate sacrifice to protect us – it’s our responsibility to make sure they’re cared for when they come home,” said Vasquez. “By cutting reimbursement rates for essential home healthcare services, this Administration is doing the opposite. These programs aren't a handout – they're earned. I’m proud to support this bill that would restore these benefits in New Mexico and make sure that our veterans get the support they need and deserve.”

“Our veterans in New Mexico have answered the call to serve, and we have a responsibility to ensure they receive the care they deserve,” said Stansbury. “Slashing reimbursements for home-based care while this administration spends billions on an endless war betrays our nations promises to our veterans. The Protecting Home-Based Care for Rural Veterans Act will reverse these harmful cuts and help ensure our veterans can live with the dignity, independence, and support they deserve.""

“In South Texas, access to care means making sure veterans can receive the services they need where they live. Home-based care helps aging and disabled veterans stay safe, independent, and close to their families. This bill protects that care, supports the providers who deliver it, and ensures rural communities are not left behind,” said Cuellar.

""Home-based care is essential for disabled and elderly veterans in Texas's rural communities. Reversing the cuts to home health reimbursement will ensure that veterans with disabilities and serious health conditions can continue to receive the care they need. This is a necessity, not a luxury. Protecting these care options is crucial in making sure that our veteran communities can continue to live independently and with the support they deserve,"" said Veasey.

“Our military heroes deserve good healthcare no matter their zip code,” said Castro. “The Protecting Home-Based Care for Rural Veterans Act would help make sure veterans living in rural areas receive the high-quality medical care they deserve. Congress should be making it easier for veterans to stay healthy, not harder. This bill will make VA care more accessible and timely.”

“There are more than 50,000 veterans in South Texas, including 24,000 with service-connected disabilities; we need fewer barriers impeding access to health care, not more. Instead, this Administration does the opposite by hindering the VA’s ability to recruit and retain staff to operate rural homecare service programs and deliver our veterans the care they earned. With this bill, we will reverse a harmful one-size-fits-all approach that overlooks our smallest and most rural communities — and allow us to meet the individual needs of South Texas and beyond,” said Gonzalez.

The legislation is endorsed by the New Mexico Association for Home and Hospice Care, Texas Association for Home Care and Hospice, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and Elizabeth Dole Foundation.

The full text of the bill is here.",1,2026-07-18T06:58:50Z,2026-07-18T07:31:57Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=647,Leger Fernandez Votes to Cut Offensive Military Aid To Israel,2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Today, Congresswoman Leger Fernandez voted for an amendment to the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP) Appropriations Act (H.R. 8595) introduced by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) to prohibit funds appropriated by the Act from being used for Israel’s offensive weapons and activities.

“Peace cannot be built with more bombs.

Congress has a responsibility to make sure American taxpayer dollars reflect American laws, American values, and our commitment to human rights. When they do not, we have a duty to change course.

I voted for the amendment because the United States cannot continue writing blank checks for offensive military assistance to Netanyahu’s government as he causes such death and destruction for innocent Palestinian civilians, villagers in the West Bank, and disrupts a world order that values peace and respect.

The Israeli and Palestinian people both deserve to raise their children free from terror, violence, and fear. Israel has the right to exist and to live in security. Both sides deserve to practice their religion and faith. That’s why I continue to support defensive systems that protect civilian lives, which are not affected by this amendment,” said Leger Fernández.

The House passed H.R. 8595 by a vote of 217-209, with Congresswoman Leger Fernández voting against the bill’s final passage. The bill undermines American diplomacy, weakens our national security, and makes significant cuts to lifesaving humanitarian aid.

This bill also advances the Republican voter suppression bill called the SAVE America Act.

“The SAVE America Act will make it harder to register to vote, especially if you’re a woman, live in a rural community, serve in the military, or are a Tribal voter. If you’re wealthy enough to have a passport, you’re fine. But more than 21 million Americans don’t have one. Under the SAVE America Act, a REAL ID driver’s license in most states or other common forms of ID wouldn’t be enough to register. This isn’t about election security. It’s about making it harder for eligible Americans to vote. The only thing this bill is designed to save is Republicans’ electoral butts in November,” said Leger Fernández.

###",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-supports-bipartisan-push-end-american-taxpayer-support,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Supports Bipartisan Push to End American Taxpayer Support for Israeli Military Operations,2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 15, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) voted in favor of a bipartisan amendment to block $3.3 billion in security assistance and other funding for Netanyahu’s far-right Israeli government from the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act. The amendment was introduced by Republican Rep. Thomas Massie (KY-04).

“Hardworking New Mexicans’ tax dollars should not be spent on a blank check for Netanyahu’s far-right government to unleash senseless violence in Gaza and Lebanon, deny humanitarian aid, and continue the illegal settlements in the West Bank,” said Vasquez. “Enough is enough. The killing of innocent civilians and reckless destruction of homes and infrastructure must end. The American people should not take part in funding this senseless violence.”

Rep. Vasquez has repeatedly advocated against spending U.S. taxpayer dollars on conflicts in the Middle East that do not align with American values. His actions on this front include:

Being the first member of the New Mexico delegation to call for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict.

Sending a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging the Administration to bring the conflict in southern Lebanon to an end and ensure that any expenditure of taxpayer dollars to pay for weapons for Israel are authorized by Congress.

Pressed Pentagon officials on the Iran war, demanding answers for New Mexico regarding the war’s duration, cost, and the Administration’s lack of an exit plan.

Voted in support of the Iran War Powers Resolution.

###",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-votes-yes-massie-amendment-block-foreign-military-aid,Rep. Stansbury Votes ‘YES’ on Massie Amendment to Block Foreign Military Aid,2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) released the following statement after voting ‘YES’ on Congressman Thomas Massie’s (KY-04) Amendment to the National Security, Department of State and Related Programs Appropriation Act:

""Our country is at a crossroads. Will we continue to allow American taxpayer dollars to fund an illegal war in the Middle East and the killing and suffering of children and civilians in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon? Or will we choose peace and human dignity?

""Today, I voted for peace and human dignity—voting 'yes' on an Amendment to the National Security funding bill that would have blocked $3.3 billion in offensive military aid to fund violence in the Middle East. As a member of the House Progressive Congress, I am proud to stand with my colleagues on this vote. No more money for endless wars.""

###",1,2026-07-29T07:41:48Z,2026-07-29T07:42:57Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-gabe-vasquez-speaks-out-against-latest-wave-ice-killings,ICYMI: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Speaks Out Against Latest Wave of ICE Killings,2026-07-14,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 14, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) took to the House floor to condemn ICE’s latest wave of violence, which has claimed two lives on American streets in the past week alone. In the speech, he honored the memory of Lorenzo Salgado, a hardworking father of three who was killed by ICE agents in Houston last week, as well as Renee Good, Alex Pretti, and a young man from Maine whose identity has not been disclosed by authorities — all of whom lost their lives at the hands of the government.

“We were told this was about dangerous, violent criminals. Trump's immigration enforcement has made everyone unsafe — Latinos for the way we look, and any American who dares to stand with them,” said Vasquez. “Lorenzo cried out, ‘¡Me están matando!’ — they are killing me. The ‘they’ were ICE agents. The ‘they’ was paid by YOUR tax dollars. The ‘they’ answers ONLY to this Administration — it does not answer to the people. Later today, many in this chamber will have the privilege of going home to dinner with their loved ones. Lorenzo Salgado Araujo should have had it too.”

WATCH THE FULL CLIP HERE",1,2026-07-15T07:12:08Z,2026-07-15T07:13:45Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-opposes-omb-push-politicize-federal-grantmaking-inflict-chaos,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Opposes OMB Push to Politicize Federal Grantmaking, Inflict Chaos on New Mexico Institutions",2026-07-14,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) recently opposed an Office of Management and Budget (OMB) rule proposal that would inflict chaos on New Mexico institutions and grant the executive branch more unchecked power over federal spending activities. The proposed rule is being spearheaded by Russell Vought, the author of Project 2025 who now heads the agency that manages the country's budget.

The rule would have major impacts on over $1 trillion in annual federal grantmaking and could harm local governments, Tribes, universities, nonprofits, school districts, healthcare organizations, small businesses, research institutes, and other organizations across New Mexico that rely on federal grants to serve their communities. Many of these grant recipients were already hit by funding freezes and uncertainty as a result of reckless actions and cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), and this rule would amplify that ongoing uncertainty.

The OMB Uniform Guidance serves as the federal government’s core rulebook for grantmaking, shaping everything from how nonprofits recover costs to how agencies design and administer grant programs. Under the current rules, grant applicants must already meet numerous standards and oversight requirements, and awards are based on merit and metrics meant to ensure fairness. The proposed changes would give individual agencies and their political leaders sweeping discretion, creating uncertainty and inconsistency for the nonprofits and community organizations that rely on stable federal partnerships to deliver essential services.

Specifically, OMB’s proposed rule would:

Politicize federal grantmaking by giving senior political appointees greater control over discretionary awards while weakening the role of independent, merit-based peer review.

Allow administrations to abruptly cancel existing grants based on shifting “agency priorities” or the broadly defined “national interest,” creating uncertainty for communities, researchers, workers, and contractors relying on federal commitments.

Undermine Congress’s power of the purse by giving the executive branch expansive discretion to redirect or terminate funding that Congress approved for specific public purposes.

Threaten critical services and constitutional rights by tying funding to vague ideological conditions and putting healthcare, education, scientific research, public safety, and economic development projects at risk.

Create costly new red tape and delays through expanded E-Verify requirements, payment-eligibility screening, and written justifications for individual payment requests — burdens that would hit small nonprofits, rural providers, Tribal governments, and community organizations hardest.

On July 10, Rep. Vasquez and 126 other members of Congress sent a letter to OMB Director Russell Vought outlining their concerns with the proposed rule, reiterating how it would impact their constituents, and demanding that the rule be withdrawn.

In the letter, Vasquez and other lawmakers noted, “This proposal would represent the most sweeping and destructive transformation of the federal financial assistance system in modern history and would subordinate nonpartisan, merit-based grantmaking to political control, exposing the entire framework to serious constitutional challenge. With more than $1 trillion in annual Federal awards at stake, the consequences would be felt by every state, federally recognized tribe, city, county, research university, hospital, and countless nonprofits, community organizations, and private firms that deliver critical scientific studies and essential public services.”

Read the full letter here.

###",1,2026-07-15T07:12:08Z,2026-07-15T07:13:45Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/gila-national-forest-rep-vasquez-highlights-how-forest-service-cuts-put-new,"At Gila National Forest, Rep. Vasquez Highlights How Forest Service Cuts Put New Mexico's Public Lands and People at Risk",2026-07-10,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SILVER CITY, N.M. – On July 10, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led local conservationists, veterans, wildlife experts, and community members on a hike in the Gila National Forest to hear firsthand how recent U.S. Forest Service staffing cuts are impacting wildfire prevention, trail maintenance, outdoor recreation, and public lands management in southern New Mexico.

The hike took place near the Trout Fire burn area, where participants discussed the growing challenges facing one of New Mexico's most treasured landscapes due to the Administration’s recent decision to gut the Forest Service workforce, cut research stations, and reorganize the agency — a move which Rep. Vasquez has condemned due to concerns about wildfire risks and threats to public lands.

“The Administration is causing chaos, disruption, and thousands of consequential layoffs at the U.S. Forest Service, impacting rural forest communities like Silver City. We’re at peak fire season, and folks on the ground shared great concerns about the next big fire to hit Grant and Catron counties, as the trail-clearing crews that help clear the way for fire lines in wilderness areas were fired or RIF’d over a year ago,” said Vasquez. “Today I listened to a multitude of stakeholders, volunteers, business owners, and biologists about the future of the Gila as we took a hike through the Trout Fire burn scar. It’s clear to me that we need MORE resources, not less, during this crucial time, while USDA instead is focusing on a massive relocation effort and staff reassignments that hinder the department’s ability to respond quickly and decisively in rural communities. Fully staffing our Forest Service is one of my top priorities — for all public land users and for the safety and security of forest communities across my district.”

To push back against the Forest Service cuts, Vasquez is championing the Public Lands Workforce Stability Act, legislation that would prevent reductions in force at the U.S. Forest Service and Department of the Interior through 2030. The bill underscores that safeguarding the Forest Service workforce is a wise investment of taxpayer funds to protect our public lands, public safety, tourism economies, and the local businesses that depend on outdoor recreation.

Vasquez has also repeatedly pressed the Administration to address declining trail conditions and spoke out against the Administration’s decision to redirect approximately $90 million in National Park Service entrance fee revenue from essentials like trail maintenance to cosmetic pet projects in Washington, D.C., like painting statues gold.

Protecting the Gila has long remained a cornerstone of Vasquez's work in Congress. He introduced the M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act, legislation that would permanently protect approximately 446 miles of the Gila River, San Francisco River, and their tributaries as part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System — marking the most significant conservation effort for the region in more than a century.

Vasquez is a national leader in protecting public lands, founding the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, which successfully prevented millions of acres of public land from being sold through last year's budget reconciliation process. He has also introduced bipartisan legislation to prohibit future attempts to sell or transfer federal public lands without congressional approval, the Public Lands Integrity Act.

Joining Rep. Vasquez on today’s hike were representatives from New Mexico Wild, the New Mexico Wildlife Federation, veterans, local conservation leaders, and residents of the Gila region, all of whom shared their experiences living, working, and recreating on New Mexico's public lands.

“The proper staffing and management of such an important national resource needs to be given serious attention by the current Administration, and they must quit treating our national forests as an irrelevant waste of money,” said Al Gamboa, a Silver City resident and Marine Corps veteran who is passionate about protecting the Gila River. “DOGE slashed funding and staff without ever taking into consideration what an important resource and economic-driver these lands are to the country and especially our region.”

“The Administration recognizes the enormous public support that public lands and conservation have, so instead of privatizing them — which they would love to do — they are destroying [our lands] and the agencies responsible for managing them by a thousand cuts,” said Carlos Martinez del Rio, a Silver City resident, wildlife biologist, and board member of the New Mexico Wildlife Federation. “The restructuring of the Forest Service, the obliteration of the Forest Service’s research branch, and the regulatory rollbacks that will threaten previous rules that balanced extractive uses with the need for sustainability and biodiversity conservation are all examples of this approach.”

“Since 1905, there has been a Forest Service presence in Silver City, managing the Gila’s 3.3 million acres, and woven into the lives and livelihoods of the people in Grant County, NM. Young people from the area could train as fish biologists, botanists, geologists or other resource careers and then secure meaningful work with the Gila National Forest serving their community, the National Forest system, and the country. That reality is no more,” said Patrice Mutchnick, Director of Heart of the Gila. “The science and resource management class of the agency has been decimated and staffing locally is at bare bones minimum. With the continued cuts and confusing changes at the USDA and the U.S. Forest Service, the economic symbiosis between the community and the Forest, forged over a century, is unraveling at record speed.”

###",1,2026-07-11T07:10:48Z,2026-07-11T07:14:29Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=646,"N.M. Delegation Demands Answers After Reports of DEA Declining to Seize Massive Fentanyl Shipments, Calls for Immediate Reforms to Stop Deadly Fentanyl from Reaching New Mexico Communities",2026-07-10,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) and U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) sent a letter demanding answers from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Administrator Terrance Cole on why the DEA allowed large quantities of fentanyl to circulate unseized in New Mexico communities.

Trafficking of fentanyl and other opioids poses one of the most severe — and often deadly — public health threats facing New Mexico and the nation. Illicit fentanyl, a Schedule I controlled substance, is an exceptionally potent synthetic opioid that can be fatal even in extremely small quantities. Illicitly manufactured fentanyl has been the primary driver of the overdose epidemic in the U.S.

Whistleblower complaints allege that Albuquerque-based DEA agents declined to interdict at least 1.8 million fentanyl pills between 2023 and 2025 in hopes of taking down a larger supply chain.

“We unequivocally assert that allowing fentanyl to go unseized creates an unconscionable risk to New Mexicans,” the lawmakers wrote to DEA Administrator Cole.

In 2017, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and DEA established ""Fentanyl Protocols"" directing agents to ""seize or otherwise prevent the distribution"" of fentanyl ""as soon as practicable"" to protect public safety. In 2024, the DOJ revised those protocols to provide law enforcement with greater discretion, allowing agents to weigh public safety risks against ""the benefits to be achieved through preserving the investigation."" A 2024 DOJ Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) investigative summary further states that the U.S. Attorney's Office acted reasonably in allowing certain drugs to remain unseized and concluded that doing so posed no ""specific danger to public health and safety.""

“We adamantly disagree with this internal assessment, and we urge your agency to immediately revert fentanyl protocols to the 2017 standard of seize or otherwise prevent the distribution of fentanyl as soon as practicable,” the lawmakers underscored. “We will be taking all necessary actions in Congress to better ensure the safety of New Mexicans and expect that you will stand with us in those efforts.” The lawmakers concluded their letter by demanding responses to a request for written documentation on all instances where the DEA declined to interdict fentanyl, and the following questions on the DEA's fentanyl interdiction policies, investigative protocols, and enforcement practices:

Provide comprehensive written documentation of all individual instances, occurring in New Mexico since January 2017, including dates, locations and amount of suspected contraband, during which DEA has declined to interdict fentanyl in the course of a Title III or electronic surveillance investigation. Please also indicate the extent to which fentanyl involved in these investigations was ultimately recovered.

What are DEA’s current internal directives and guidelines dictating how federal agents manage active drug-trafficking investigations involving fentanyl? Specifically, what protocols instruct agents on whether to seize a shipment of fentanyl immediately or allow it to pass temporarily under surveillance?

What internal DOJ or DEA documentation determines, or may supersede, official fentanyl interdiction and operational protocols both as a matter of agency-wide policy and also with regards to individual drug-trafficking investigations? How are these changes to operational protocols communicated to agents in the field? Please provide all such documentation since January 2017.

Under what circumstances are DEA agents permitted to exercise discretion, abandoning any presumption of interdiction, allowing a fentanyl transaction to proceed without immediate seizure? What safeguards are in place to protect communities when fentanyl shipments are allowed to continue as part of an ongoing investigation?

Must agents possess a guaranteed, continuous ability to seize the substance immediately if the operational environment changes? How is the likelihood of losing operational surveillance, and the potential number of lives impacted if the substance enters the illicit supply chain, measured against the benefits of a successful investigation?

What circumstances mandate when fentanyl must be safely interdicted, or swapped for a controlled delivery with a substituted substance, before it is allowed to advance within the supply chain? What levels of approval within your command structure are required to bypass immediate interdiction?

What other tactics such as controlled deliveries, enhanced surveillance, contraband substitution are available to your agency to facilitate long-term, high-level investigations without an unacceptable risk to public safety? What resources can we provide to make these tactics of more common use to your agency?

What is the reassignment status of DEA personnel based in New Mexico to out-of-state enforcement efforts since January 2025? During the same period, have DEA agents in New Mexico maintained their primary focus on drug-trafficking investigations or have any participated in joint immigration enforcement operations not limited to ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations?

For more information on the N.M. Delegation’s work to tackle the opioid crisis, click here.

The full text of the letter is here and below:

Dear Administrator Cole:

We write with urgent concern following investigative reporting revealing that U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents may have allowed large quantities of fentanyl to circulate unseized in New Mexico communities. These reports include whistleblower complaints alleging that Albuquerque-based agents declined to interdict at least 1.8 million fentanyl pills between 2023 and 2025 in hopes of taking down a larger supply chain. We unequivocally assert that allowing fentanyl to go unseized creates an unconscionable risk to New Mexicans. Furthermore, given the seriousness of these allegations and potential ongoing threats to public safety, we require immediate responses regarding your agency’s fentanyl interdiction and operational protocols.

Illicit fentanyl poses a uniquely severe, and often deadly, public health crisis in New Mexico and across the country. Pharmaceutical fentanyl, a schedule II substance, is an exceptionally potent synthetic opioid, posing a severe risk of fatality even in extremely small quantities. Its potency is estimated to be significantly higher than other opioids, approximately 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Because fentanyl is so powerful, even an extremely small amount — roughly equivalent to a few grains of salt — can be a lethal dose. The illegal diversion of pharmaceutical fentanyl most often occurs through supply chain theft, prescription fraud, and rogue actors within the medical system. Unlike pharmaceutical fentanyl, illicitly manufactured fentanyl is mainly produced in clandestine laboratories without approved precursor chemicals and is largely responsible for the overdose crisis in the U.S. Illicit fentanyl and its analogs, schedule I substances, are unregulated lab-made variations of pharmaceutical fentanyl often supplied by drug cartels. Illicit manufacturers frequently mix it into other drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, and counterfeit pills. This means individuals are often unaware they are ingesting it, which significantly increases the risk of accidental overdose. Because of the variability in illegal drug manufacturing, the amount of synthetic opioid varies widely from pill to pill and, as acknowledged by your agency, a single pill can easily result in a fatal overdose.

Internal DEA documentation indicating shifting agency fentanyl interdiction and operational protocols, without necessary consultation with various Congressional oversight authorities, is of paramount importance to our inquiry. Public reporting has focused on U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and DEA “Fentanyl Protocols,” established in 2017, mandating that agents “seize or otherwise prevent the distribution” of fentanyl “as soon as practicable” to protect public safety. Subsequently, in 2024, reporting states that DOJ updated these protocols to give law enforcement more discretion, allowing agents to balance public safety risks against “the benefits to be achieved through preserving the investigation.” Confirmation of this posture is recorded in a DOJ Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) 2024 investigative summary, concluding that the U.S. Attorney's Office had made reasonable decisions by allowing drugs to go unseized and that their inaction posed no “specific danger to public health and safety.” We adamantly disagree with this internal assessment, and we urge your agency to immediately revert fentanyl protocols to the 2017 standard of seize or otherwise prevent the distribution of fentanyl as soon as practicable.

We appreciate that you recently asked DOJ’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) to begin an internal, independent investigation of the reported allegations. While we have no interest in interfering with the OIG’s progress, we require immediate responses to the following, no later than 10 days from your receipt of this letter, so that we may take appropriate legislative action to reign in any discretionary authority erroneously presumed.

Provide comprehensive written documentation of all individual instances, occurring in New Mexico since January 2017, including dates, locations and amount of suspected contraband, during which DEA has declined to interdict fentanyl in the course of a Title III or electronic surveillance investigation. Please also indicate the extent to which fentanyl involved in these investigations was ultimately recovered.

What are DEA’s current internal directives and guidelines dictating how federal agents manage active drug-trafficking investigations involving fentanyl? Specifically, what protocols instruct agents on whether to seize a shipment of fentanyl immediately or allow it to pass temporarily under surveillance?

What internal DOJ or DEA documentation determines, or may supersede, official fentanyl interdiction and operational protocols both as a matter of agency-wide policy and also with regards to individual drug-trafficking investigations? How are these changes to operational protocols communicated to agents in the field? Please provide all such documentation since January 2017.

Under what circumstances are DEA agents permitted to exercise discretion, abandoning any presumption of interdiction, allowing a fentanyl transaction to proceed without immediate seizure? What safeguards are in place to protect communities when fentanyl shipments are allowed to continue as part of an ongoing investigation?

Must agents possess a guaranteed, continuous ability to seize the substance immediately if the operational environment changes? How is the likelihood of losing operational surveillance, and the potential number of lives impacted if the substance enters the illicit supply chain, measured against the benefits of a successful investigation?

What circumstances mandate when fentanyl must be safely interdicted, or swapped for a controlled delivery with a substituted substance, before it is allowed to advance within the supply chain? What levels of approval within your command structure are required to bypass immediate interdiction?

What other tactics such as controlled deliveries, enhanced surveillance, contraband substitution are available to your agency to facilitate long-term, high-level investigations without an unacceptable risk to public safety? What resources can we provide to make these tactics of more common use to your agency?\

What is the reassignment status of DEA personnel based in New Mexico to out-of-state enforcement efforts since January 2025? During the same period, have DEA agents in New Mexico maintained their primary focus on drug-trafficking investigations or have any participated in joint immigration enforcement operations not limited to ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations?

Please provide a detailed timeline regarding actions taken by the DEA since these whistleblower allegations came to your attention. Will DEA now direct all federal agents involved in drug-trafficking investigations to seize or otherwise prevent the distribution of fentanyl as soon as practicable?

This situation requires that your responses be compiled and returned with the same urgency with which we’ve submitted our inquiries. We will be taking all necessary actions in Congress to better ensure the safety of New Mexicans and expect that you will stand with us in those efforts.

Sincerely,",1,2026-07-14T07:08:55Z,2026-07-14T07:10:52Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-gabe-vasquez-stands-catholic-church-mount-cristo-rey-sunland-park,ICYMI: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Stands with Catholic Church at Mount Cristo Rey in Sunland Park,2026-07-09,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SUNLAND PARK, N.M. – On July 8, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) met with Deacon Jim Winder, Chancellor of the Diocese of Las Cruces, to discuss the latest developments in the Department of Homeland Security’s push to seize sacred land owned by the Catholic Diocese at Mount Cristo Rey. According to the church, the proposed wall would prevent thousands of worshippers from making pilgrimage to this holy site each year.

Vasquez stood with the Catholic Church, calling for enhanced border security measures in the area that do not infringe on worshippers’ First Amendment rights, such as remote towers, drones, aerostats, and other smart technology that is proven and effective for preventing illegal crossings.

“We can both protect sacred Catholic places of worship and secure the border,” said Vasquez. “The Diocese must be heard.”

WATCH FULL CLIP HERE

Photo courtesy of the Office of Rep. Gabe Vasquez

###",1,2026-07-10T08:20:04Z,2026-07-10T08:21:18Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-backs-law-enforcement-leaders-border-and-rural-communities,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Backs Law Enforcement Leaders from Border and Rural Communities, Working to Strengthen Public Safety Across Southern New Mexico",2026-07-08,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"SUNLAND PARK, N.M. – On July 8, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) joined Sunland Park Police Chief Kiri Daines for a border ride-along and convened a regional meeting with rural law enforcement leaders to hear directly about the unique needs and challenges facing officers serving New Mexico's border communities.

The conversations focused on strengthening border security, combating cartels and fentanyl trafficking, supporting recruitment and retention for rural departments, and ensuring local law enforcement has the funding, technology, and federal partnerships needed to keep communities safe.

“Local law enforcement in border counties face unique public safety challenges that require our attention and investment,” said Vasquez. “I’ve been working with Sheriffs and local police along the U.S.-Mexico border for years, and I know firsthand the resources they need to combat cartels, drug trafficking, and human smuggling, all while working with staff shortages and limited resources. That's why I'm working across the aisle with Democrats and Republicans to make sure all New Mexico law enforcement — including those in rural and small communities — have the funding, tools, and support they need to keep both themselves and members of our communities safe.”

During the morning border ride-along, Chief Daines provided an on-the-ground look at the latest trends and realities of policing a border community, where local officers coordinate daily with federal, state, and neighboring law enforcement agencies to respond to public safety incidents, cartel activity, emergency calls, and cross-border challenges.

Following the ride-along, Vasquez met with Chief Daines, Doña Ana County Sheriff Kim Stewart, Hidalgo County Sheriff William Chadborn, Luna County Sheriff-Elect Glenn Chadborn, Chief of Police Sergio Lara of Deming, and other regional law enforcement leaders to discuss how the Congressman can best continue to support the unique needs of small and rural departments, including recruitment and retention challenges, equipment needs, information sharing, and strategies to combat fentanyl trafficking and transnational criminal organizations.

Vasquez has a long record of working across the aisle to advance legislation supporting law enforcement and strengthening public safety, including:

His bipartisan No More Narcos Act and Stop COYOTES Act, endorsed by the Sunland Park Police Department, to crack down on cartels, protect children from criminal recruitment, increase penalties for human traffickers and fentanyl smugglers, and improve coordination between federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement.

His bipartisan Secure Our Skies Drone Safety Act, endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, to help law enforcement better respond to criminal drone activity used by cartels.

The Invest to Protect Act, which expands federal funding for recruitment, retention, and training officers at small law enforcement agencies who have under 175 officers like the Deming Police Department, Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, Luna County Sheriff’s Office, and others throughout New Mexico’s 2nd district.

The Protecting First Responders from Secondary Exposure Act, which provides protective equipment for officers responding to dangerous fentanyl-related incidents.

Bipartisan efforts to strengthen High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) programs and improve information sharing among law enforcement agencies combating drug trafficking. Vasquez has condemned the Administration’s push to cut funding for HIDTA by 35 percent.

Vasquez has also championed Community Project Funding requests to bring millions of dollars of federal investment home to help local police departments modernize facilities, purchase patrol vehicles and public safety technology, and improve emergency response capabilities across southern New Mexico. In FY26 alone, Vasquez secured over $1.8 million for public safety priorities from Albuquerque to Carlsbad.

“I appreciate Chief Daines and the border sheriffs and local police who took the time to meet with me and share the latest on conditions on the ground, challenges they’re up against, and stalled federal funding,” Vasquez said. “Since taking office, I’ve always had a proactive stance when it comes to strengthening public safety, listening and taking action to provide the funding and tools our law enforcement officers need to protect New Mexico families, stop organized crime, disrupt drug trafficking, and keep our communities safe. That work will continue.”

###",1,2026-07-09T08:24:13Z,2026-07-09T08:26:05Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-calls-usps-restore-permanent-reliable-mail-service-mule-creek,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Calls on USPS to Restore Permanent, Reliable Mail Service in Mule Creek After Two Years Of Temporary Solutions",2026-07-07,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 7, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to the United States Postal Service (USPS) demanding immediate action and permanent solutions to restore reliable mail service for Mule Creek residents. After the Mule Creek postal office was damaged back in 2024, the landlord declined to make repairs, leaving USPS to locate a new property to continue operations.

While USPS quickly established a mobile office, this temporary solution has turned into a two-year saga as Mule Creek residents continue to lack a permanent postal office and must cope with the reduced hours and services offered by the mobile unit. Currently, residents can only access services at the mobile unit from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on weekdays, limiting accessibility and raising the threat of potential permanent closure.

“It has been over two years since USPS has taken any action to help the residents of Mule Creek. This saga has taken too long,” wrote Vasquez in the letter. “That is why, I am requesting a detailed explanation as to why there has been a delay in finding a new postal office location and the restoration of full mail service in Mule Creek, as well as a timeline of an estimated reopening of the office.”

Residents of rural communities like Mule Creek, especially seniors, veterans, and small businesses, depend on reliable USPS services. On average, residents in rural counties travel 8.2 miles to reach a post office, and in 10 percent of those counties, that distance exceeds more than 16.2 miles. If this location were to close, it would leave Mule Creek residents nearly 20 miles away from the nearest USPS location, forcing them to deal with major hurdles when paying bills, receiving life-saving prescriptions, sending packages, and receiving Social Security checks in areas where internet access may be limited.

Rep. Vasquez has continued to fight for essential, affordable, and reliable postal services in rural communities.

Since the beginning of this Administration, Vasquez has opposed efforts to privatize the postal services.

In January, Vasquez sent a letter raising concerns about USPS changes to postmarking mail, which could unfairly penalize New Mexicans who rely on USPS to send time-sensitive mail such as tax returns, rent payments, and Social Security or Medicare documents.

In March, Vasquez led a letter opposing USPS proposal to impose a temporary “fuel surcharge"" on consumers, passing the cost of the Administration’s reckless war in Iran and spiking gas prices on to Americans.

###",1,2026-07-08T07:27:19Z,2026-07-08T07:28:28Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/one-year-after-passage-republican-tax-law-hr-1-rep-vasquez-underscores-ongoing,"One Year After Passage of Republican Tax Law (H.R. 1), Rep. Vasquez Underscores Ongoing Harm to New Mexicans",2026-07-03,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"LAS CRUCES, N.M. – On July 3, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) marked the one-year anniversary of the passage of the Republican tax law (also referred to as H.R. 1 or the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”), releasing the following statement:

“A year ago today, MAGA extremists sold out hardworking Americans to pay for tax cuts for a small group of wealthy elites, but Americans don’t need to be told that — they’ve felt it every single day with their wallets. From health insurance to food to utilities, so many of the things that have gotten more expensive this past year can be traced back to this devastating tax law. I will keep fighting every step of the way to restore vital funding for healthcare, food assistance, and more so hardworking New Mexicans aren’t left out to dry by the very government that is supposed to help make their lives better.”

Vasquez is also slated to meet with members of the Las Cruces community at El Caldito Soup Kitchen and Roadrunner Food Bank in the coming days to hear their firsthand accounts of how the cuts enacted one year ago under the Republican tax law are impacting them today.

“The New Mexico HealthCare Authority reports that over 10,000 children have lost food assistance through SNAP since H.R. 1 was enacted in July 2025, and the number of people accessing services from Roadrunner Food Bank and our partners is now at levels we have not seen since the start of the pandemic,” said Jason Riggs, Director of Advocacy and Public Policy at Roadrunner Food Bank. “SNAP can provide nine times the number of meals as the national network of food banks. Cuts to SNAP inevitably increases need. The cost of food and fuel has not only impacted the people we serve, but it has also affected Roadrunner Food Bank’s operational budget. We are doing our best to meet the increased need in our communities.”

The numbers speak for themselves:

Food Cuts: The Republican tax law slashed $180 billion from SNAP and nutrition assistance benefits — the largest cut in history — and expanded red tape for veterans, children, and folks with disabilities.

In New Mexico, where one in four people rely on food assistance, SNAP enrollment has already dropped by 5% — or about 21,000 people — due to the new red tape.

Healthcare Cuts: Nationally, the $1 trillion dollar Medicaid cuts made by the Republican tax law are projected to result in 7.6 million Americans losing access to their healthcare coverage by 2034, with millions of others already seeing sharp spikes in their healthcare premiums due to the Republican tax law.

In New Mexico, by 2028, monthly Medicaid enrollment is expected to drop by 87,000 people due to the new burdensome work requirements imposed under the Republican tax law (which activate in January 2027).

Eight Rural Hospitals Serving Residents of NM-02 at Risk of Closing: Carlsbad Medical Center, Socorro General Hospital, Mimbres Memorial Hospital, Covenant Health Hobbs Hospital, Lincoln County Medical Center, and three other nearby hospitals that serve residents of Rep. Vasquez’s district are at risk of having to reduce services or close their doors completely due to health care provisions in the Republican tax law. Expectant mothers in Hatch will go without critical prenatal support, grandparents in Silver City will lose access to long-term care, and kids in Hobbs will need to travel farther for emergency surgeries.

Rising Utility Costs: The cuts to energy tax credits imposed by this bill are projected to force New Mexicans to pay more than $500 more per year to keep the lights on.

All these cuts were made to pay for the single-largest transfer of wealth from the working class to the rich in history, and the Republican tax law is projected to increase the national debt by $3.4 trillion.

Last year, Vasquez voted against the Republican tax law, opposing cuts that were made to programs hardworking New Mexicans rely on to pay for tax cuts for wealthy elites. Since then, Vasquez has consistently worked to make sure the government is working for hardworking New Mexicans, including:

Fighting to protect access to SNAP for hardworking New Mexicans, including by championing an amendment to the Farm Bill that would eliminate new red tape imposed on veterans with his Feed Our Veterans Act.

Working to shield New Mexicans from the healthcare rate hikes imposed by the Republican tax law, including by cosponsoring the Protecting Healthcare and Lowering Costs Act to reverse devastating health care cuts in the Republican tax law and permanently extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits.

Supporting legislation that would combat soaring utility bills for New Mexicans by restoring energy tax credits cut under the Republican tax law, enacting smart permitting reform, and cutting red tape to bring more affordable energy online faster.

###",1,2026-07-04T07:41:55Z,2026-07-04T07:42:45Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=645,"Leger Fernández Has Delivered More Than $6.7 Billion for New Mexico Communities, Water Infrastructure, Disaster Recovery Since Coming to Office",2026-07-03,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Santa Fe, N.M. — Since taking office, Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández has helped deliver more than $6.74 billion in federal funding to strengthen New Mexico communities, invest in critical infrastructure, and help families recover from devastating natural disasters.

The funding includes:

$5.48 billion for disaster relief, including compensation and recovery efforts for survivors of the Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and flooding in Chaves County.

$738.45 million for the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project, bringing reliable, clean drinking water to Navajo Nation, the Jicarilla Apache Nation, and northwestern New Mexico.

$398.75 million for the Eastern New Mexico Rural Water System, securing long-term water access for about 73,000 people in Clovis, Portales, Texico, Elida and Cannon Air Force Base.

$124.4 million through Community Project Funding, supporting dozens of locally driven projects across New Mexico’s third Congressional District, including improvements for roads, water systems, fire fighters, sheriffs, housing, schools, community centers, health care facilities, tribal infrastructure, and economic development in our cities, rural and Tribal communities. See a full list of these projects here.

In total, these investments amount to $6,742,683,785 delivered for New Mexico.",1,2026-07-07T08:20:12Z,2026-07-07T08:22:09Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-champions-bipartisan-solutions-protect-new-mexicans-fentanyl,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Champions Bipartisan Solutions to Protect New Mexicans From Fentanyl Crisis,2026-07-02,2026,2026-07,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 2, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) championed two bipartisan bills to protect New Mexicans from the fentanyl crisis, Tyler’s Law (H.R. 2004) and Sammy’s Law (H.R. 2657). Tyler’s Law helps prevent fentanyl overdoses by encouraging hospitals to test for fentanyl more regularly when a patient is experiencing an overdose. Sammy’s Law bolsters youth online safety by giving parents tools to help ensure their children are not using social media platforms to engage in drug deals and other dangerous behaviors.

These bipartisan solutions come on the heels of reports that federal officials knowingly let hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills flood into New Mexico communities.

“Fentanyl is cutting too many lives short, ripping apart New Mexico families. We need to attack this crisis from every angle: stopping traffickers at the border, holding federal officials accountable when they fail our communities, giving parents tools to keep their kids safe online, and helping hospitals identify fentanyl overdoses faster,” said Vasquez. “Tyler’s Law and Sammy’s Law are bipartisan, commonsense solutions that will help protect families, save lives, and keep this poison off our streets.”

Both Tyler’s Law and Sammy’s Law have support from Democratic and Republican lawmakers, with Tyler’s Law having endorsements from a host of community organizations, including the American College of Emergency Physicians, Emergency Nurses Association, AIDS United, National Drug & Alcohol Screening Association, Facing Fentanyl, Voices for Awareness, Project Eli, Song for Charlie, End Overdose, High Truths on Drugs and Addiction, Sun Shine on You Foundation, Drug Awareness Foundation, VOID, Victoria’s Voice, and Stop Drug Homicide.

Sammy’s Law is named after Sammy Chapman, who, at the age of 16, was approached by a drug dealer on Snapchat and was unknowingly a victim of fentanyl poisoning.

New Mexico faces one of the most severe drug abuse crises in the nation, with overdose rates almost double the national average and youth drug use rates 50% higher than the national average. Nationwide, fentanyl overdose is the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18 to 45.

These two bipartisan bills build on Vasquez’s longstanding record of fighting for solutions to stop illegal drugs from flowing into New Mexico communities and senselessly claiming lives:

On June 25, 2026, Vasquez sent a letter to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) alongside his House colleagues Reps. Stansbury and Leger Fernández demanding answers and accountability following reports that “federal agents and prosecutors knowingly allowed hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills to reach the streets of Albuquerque and other New Mexico communities in a practice known as ‘walking.’”

Earlier this year, Vasquez cosponsored H.R.1294, the BEST Facilitation Act, and H.R.285, the Advanced Border Coordination Act of 2025 — two bipartisan, commonsense solutions to combat the flow of illegal goods into the country by enhancing U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) cargo scanning capabilities at points of entry and improving coordination between law enforcement agencies at the southern border.

Vasquez also introduced theStop COYOTES Act, which improves public safety by imposing harsher penalties against human smugglers and fentanyl traffickers while also improving information sharing and reporting between DHS and local law enforcement along the border.

Vasquez has cosponsored the Fight Fentanyl Act, which would reform and reauthorize the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program through FY2030 at $333 million per year. It would also create a $14 million grant program for federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies with a HIDTA presence to improve their fentanyl interdiction efforts.

###",1,2026-07-03T08:00:00Z,2026-07-03T08:01:30Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-speaks-out-about-rising-utility-costs-proposed-el-paso,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Speaks Out About Rising Utility Costs, Proposed El Paso Electric Rate Increase",2026-06-30,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 30, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released the following statement on El Paso Electric’s proposed rate hike, which could cost the average family in Doña Ana County up to $42 more per month — a 57% spike. While the utility company says this rate hike is necessary to cover rising production costs caused by state laws and regulations, rising supply costs, and increased demand, southern New Mexicans have made their opposition to the rate hike clear.

“Hardworking New Mexico families are struggling to pay their bills as their costs increase from the gas station to the grocery store — asking them to pay 57% more for electricity in this economy is way, way too much,” said Vasquez. “I have been in contact with El Paso Electric and understand the company’s push to invest in grid modernization and safety, but raising prices over $500 a year is ridiculously high, and, frankly, unrealistic.”

“Everything is already too expensive, with costs continuing to rise from the Trump Administration’s war with Iran and irresponsibly high tariffs, which have caused rapid inflation,” said Vasquez. “This abrupt hike will crush hardworking families who need that money to pay for gas, groceries, rent, and healthcare — all of which just keep getting more and more expensive. There must be a more responsible path forward that is not shouldered by New Mexico ratepayers.”

Lowering utility bills for New Mexicans is a core pillar of Rep. Vasquez’s Affordability Agenda, a concrete plan to address the affordability crisis facing hardworking New Mexicans. Rep. Vasquez has:

Introduced the Energy Bills Relief Act, which takes a multi-pronged approach to bring down prices for hardworking New Mexicans.

Rolled out bipartisan legislation to cut red tape and reduce energy costs for families, such as the Create Expedited Reviews to Transform American Infrastructure Now (CERTAIN) Act.

Led efforts to reduce energy waste through the introduction of his bipartisan Waste Heat to Wattage Act, which passed the House.

Led the New Mexico delegation in demanding that the Administration immediately fund the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as New Mexico families prepared for colder temperatures this winter amidst sharply rising energy costs.

Signed on as a proud member of the Lowering Utility Bills Caucus, which launched in January to tackle the affordability crisis in electricity, gas, and water costs.

Condemned the administration’s decision to cut $135 million in Department of Energy funding for projects in New Mexico, including $56 million in canceled investment for oil and gas modernization efforts in New Mexico’s second district.

###",1,2026-07-01T06:34:07Z,2026-07-01T06:35:35Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-statement-supreme-court-ruling-birthright-citizenship-case,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Statement on Supreme Court Ruling on Birthright Citizenship Case,2026-06-30,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 30, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) released the following statement on the Supreme Court’s ruling on birthright citizenship:

“For nearly 160 years, the law has been crystal clear — if you’re born in the U.S., you’re an American citizen under the 14th Amendment of our Constitution. Today, the Supreme Court thankfully upheld the law and protected birthright citizenship in this country. Birthright citizenship has lawfully paved the way for millions of successful, patriotic, and proud American citizens — and as America charts its next 250 years, that law must continue to stand.”

###",1,2026-07-01T06:34:07Z,2026-07-01T06:35:35Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=644,Reps Leger Fernández and Lieu Re-Introduce 21st Century Federal Writers’ Act,2026-06-30,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM) and Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) introduced the 21st Century Federal Writers’ Project Act, legislation to create a new grant program administered by the National Endowment for the Arts that will empower America's writers and journalists to capture and document the American experience.

As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of its founding, this legislation establishes a coordinated national effort to chronicle the full breadth of American life across all 56 states and territories. Modeled on the Federal Writers' Project (1935-1943), the 21st Century Federal Writers' Project Act will support writers in documenting the histories, communities, customs, and everyday experiences that define the country today. The bill also creates a nationally administered and searchable repository to preserve these books and other media, ensuring that the stories gathered during the semiquincentennial era remain accessible to future generations of Americans.

“Reporters, writers, and poets have always opened our eyes to the realities of the world around us. Today, their work is more important than ever. With this legislation, our writers will be able to apply for federal funds to continue documenting American life as it looks like now,” said Congresswoman Leger Fernández. “Representative Ted Lieu and I are reintroducing the 21st Century Federal Writers' Project to revive the 1935 program that gave us an inside look at how diverse the American experience is across the country. This project gives our storytellers the opportunity to shape how American history will remember the 21st century.”

“From the beaches of Los Angeles to the mountains of West Virginia, from the dairy farms of Wisconsin to the fishing vessels of Alaska, the American experience has a wide array of history, culture, customs, and communities. As we honor the 250th anniversary of the United States, let us celebrate what defines this great country – its people,” said Congressman Lieu. “The 21st Century Federal Writers’ Project Act will not only support writers and journalists – many of whom have lost their jobs in recent years – it will memorialize what it means to be American. The stories of today should not go untold.”

Here’s what endorsing organizations have to say about the bill:

""This is a brilliant idea. The new Federal Writers' Project will help us learn who we are, at a moment when such knowledge could not be more crucial. It recognizes that coming to know our country better through stories, told lovingly and specifically, by talented writers, is a wonderful way to repair our current partisan divide,” said George Saunders, MacArthur-winning author of Lincoln in the Bardo.

""As a college student from Teheran studying in Oklahoma, I first fell under the spell of the original Federal Writers Project and its guides to all the American states. Many of the great authors nurtured by the Writers' Project, from Zora Neale Hurston to Saul Bellow to Ralph Ellison, still console and inspire me to this day. I have seen firsthand what happens when a nation's people stop listening to each other and become strangers. Please, I implore you to pass the 21st-Century Federal Writers' Project Act, and help a new generation of American writers to spare my adopted country a similar fate,” said Azar Nafisi, author of Reading Lolita in Tehran.

“It's not every idea that wins support from both The Nation magazine and President Trump's NEA, but the 21st-Century Federal Writers' Project Act is just such an idea. Modeled on the Depression's original, beloved Writers' Project, the new initiative will hire talented, inquisitive, human writers to create print and multimedia guides to all 56 states and territories – ultimately helping reintroduce a divided America to itself,” said David Kipen, NEA Director of Literature under presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama.

""The 21st-Century Federal Writers' Project is urgently needed. It is an exercise in national cultural diplomacy that will build bridges from group to group and region to region. Our country is in a state of transformation on all levels, and this national portrait now will give future generations a detailed, state-by-state look at who we are,” said Colleen Jaurretche, UCLA Department of English and co-founder and director of the Libros Schmibros Lending Library.

“For nearly a century, the legacy of the Federal Writers' Project has demonstrated the power of writers to document history, strengthen civic understanding, and preserve the voices of everyday Americans. As communities across the country lose local news outlets and writers struggle to sustain their careers, the need for a modern version of that effort has never been greater. The Authors Guild strongly supports locating this program within the National Endowment for the Arts, whose longstanding commitment to preserving our shared cultural heritage makes it an ideal home for this initiative. By supporting writers in telling the stories of our time, Congress can help create an invaluable record of America for generations to come,” said Mary Rasenberger, CEO of The Authors Guild.

""The 1930s Writers' Project remains a rich source of stories, truths, and memories of the diverse, tumultuous, beautiful and challenging terrain of our country and its people. We need a new Writers' Project, to document, sing about, and remember the extraordinary people, places, and events of our time, now, and in the future,” said Susan D. Anderson, History Curator and Program Manager of the California African American Museum.

“In the 1930s, with our country battling the Great Depression, the Federal Writers' Project put emerging writers to work capturing American life. Across cities, towns, and rural communities nationwide, they documented the people, places, and stories that make up our country, helping to shape a generation of American storytellers, from Ralph Ellison and Studs Terkel to John Steinbeck. Today, Representative Lieu's bill will give our country the opportunity once again to empower emerging writers and protect the voices of America's present and future,” said William Ames, Portfolio Director of Philanthropy, Emerson Collective.

""Studs Terkel's 'working' was about all I found to read as a carpenter and laborer for two decades. It was through his work that I learned about the ‘30s Federal Workers Project and all the great stories and writers who joined and apprenticed through it. It was my dream work. Do it again now, and count me in still,” said Dagoberto Gilb, author of The Magic of Blood and A Passing West.

""To strengthen our story-telling culture while at the same time fostering a sense of common national cause: Now there is a great American idea,” said Richard Powers, Pulitzer- and National Book Award-winning author of The Overstory.

""According to the latest report from the Bureau of Economic Analysis, Arts & Culture generates $1.17 trillion dollars (4.2% of U.S. GDP), more than all of Agriculture and Mining, combined: the American Writer is central to this massive economic engine. At this unprecedented time of great economic hardship, the 21st Century Federal Writers' Project will create and multiply American jobs across 435 congressional districts, all while capturing the voice and very soul of America at the dawn of this new era,” said Matthew-Lee Erlbach, Playwright, Screenwriter, Co-Founder of Arts Workers United.

“Congressman Lieu's bill recognizes the central role played by writers in the full functioning of our democracy. The bill would serve the double purpose of collecting the stories of the United States' experience of the pandemic for use by future generations and also putting back to work many of the nation's most talented writers and researchers, whose careers have been devastated by the effects of the pandemic. Current-day students and researchers benefit from the work made possible by FDR's Federal Writers Project, and, with the passage of this bill, the same will be true for future generations,” said Paula M. Krebs, Executive Director of the Modern Language Association.

“In this time of rampant and destructive disinformation and divisiveness, we need the insights writers acquire when they listen to people and share their stories with respect, perspective, and understanding. The 21st-Century Federal Writers’ Project will enable us to freshly recognize the true wealth, strength, and wonder of America in all its vibrant variety,” said Donna Seaman of the American Library Association’s Booklist.

""As the inaugural Literary Director of the Library of Congress, former Editor-in-Chief of Book World at the Washington Post, and senior executive in two New York publishing houses, I'm very aware of the extraordinary influence that the original Federal Writers Project (1935-1943) had on this country's literary history. So many of our most illustrious writers—Ralph Ellison, Saul Bellow, Studs Terkel, Richard Wright, May Swenson, and many others—got their start documenting the Depression for the American Guide Series. One of the most valuable collections of the past century, the Slave Narratives, containing 2,300 first-person accounts of bondage and the families that endured it, was produced as a result. These papers and recordings are all housed at the Library of Congress for the world to see, hear, study, and use. The work has been invaluable. It enriched our country's cultural currency immeasurably. But it also supported indigent, out-of-work writers in a time of dire need.

We could use such a project again. Resuscitating this project now, in this era of COVID and conflagration, when there are so many stories to tell and so much information about this country's experiences to glean, promises to be a rewarding undertaking. I thoroughly endorse and support this effort and hope that the fruits of this project might be available in print as well as digital form. It will rescue unemployed writers, awaken nascent talent, and energize stalled careers, but it will also contribute greatly to the historical record of the country. And I am quite sure it will take its place as an extraordinary collection in the important archives of this land,” said Marie Arana, Founding Literary Director, Library of Congress.

This bill is supported by: Ken Burns, filmmaker, director of The American Revolution and The Civil War; Dana Gioia, poet, critic, Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts from 2003 to 2009; John Glusman, Vice President and Executive Editor of W.W. Norton & Company; Joy Harjo, 23rd Poet Laureate of the United States; George Saunders, MacArthur-winning novelist and short-story writer; Richard Powers, National Book Award and Pulitzer-winning novelist; Azar Nafisi, author of Reading Lolita in Tehran and Read Dangerously: The Subversive Power of Literature in Troubled Times; Johanna Drucker, Distinguished Professor Emerita, Department of Information Studies, UCLA; Paul Vandeventer, President & CEO of Community Partners; Laura Zapiain, Senior Product and Privacy Counsel for the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative; David Kipen, NEA Director of Literature under presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama; Colleen Jaurretche, UCLA Department of English and co-founder and director of the Libros Schmibros Lending Library; Mary Rasenberger, CEO, The Authors Guild; Susan D. Anderson, History Curator and Program Manager, the California African American Museum; William Ames, Portfolio Director of Philanthropy, Emerson Collective; Dagoberto Gilb, author of The Magic of Blood and A Passing West; Matthew-Lee Erlbach, Playwright, Screenwriter, Writers Guild of America PAC Board Member, Co-Founder Arts Workers United ; Paula M. Krebs, Executive Director, Modern Language Association; Jill Lepore, New Yorker Staff Writer, Professor of American History at Harvard, author of the bestselling history of America These Truths; Philip J. Deloria, Harvard Professor of History; Steve Ross, Dean's Professor of History at USC, author of Hitler in Los Angeles: How Jews Foiled Nazi Plots Against Hollywood and America; Howard Rodman, author/screenwriter, Vice President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Past President of the Writers Guild of America West; Donna Seaman, Booklist; Summer Lopez, PEN America; Marie Arana, Founding Literary Director, Library of Congress.",1,2026-07-02T06:20:02Z,2026-07-02T06:21:32Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-calls-administration-focus-lowering-costs-americans-instead,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Calls on Administration to Focus on Lowering Costs for Americans Instead of Spending Taxpayer Funds on Israeli War in Lebanon,2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 29, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging the Administration to bring the conflict in southern Lebanon to an end and to stop spending taxpayer dollars on foreign wars that don’t put Americans first As prices continue to rise for New Mexico families, Rep. Vasquez has pushed the Administration to redirect that spending to lower the cost of healthcare, gas, and housing instead of on conflicts overseas.

On April 16, 2026, the Administration negotiated a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, but Israeli and Hezbollah forces have continued to violate the agreement multiple times. The letter strongly condemns violence against civilians in all forms and calls for the conflicts to be ended swiftly.

“The systematic destruction of protected civilian infrastructure and the violence against innocent civilians is unacceptable,” said Vasquez. “This Administration negotiated a ceasefire months ago and has since let the fighting continue without any oversight — all on top of wasting billions on a war with Iran. Americans are tired of seeing their tax dollars used to fund foreign wars, especially ones killing civilians overseas.”

As the only member of the New Mexican Delegation on the House Armed Services Committee, Rep. Vasquez supported the following amendments to end the war in Iran and to oppose the expansion of U.S.-Israeli military partnerships:

Cosponsored and voted for an amendment expressing a sense of disapproval for the war in Iran and calling for an end to this senseless conflict.

Voted for an amendment to strip language from the NDAA which would strengthen U.S.-Israeli military security cooperation on the taxpayer dime.

###",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-pushes-new-mexico-strengthen-snap-accountability-protect,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Pushes New Mexico to Strengthen SNAP Accountability, Protect Families and Taxpayers",2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 26, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to the New Mexico Health Care Authority urging the agency to quickly implement recommendations from the Legislative Finance Committee (LFC) to improve the state’s administration of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), reduce the state's payment error rate (which is the third-highest in the nation), and protect New Mexico from losing up to $173 million in federal funding annually.

Rep. Vasquez strongly opposed the SNAP cuts included in last year's Republican tax law, and he emphasized that New Mexico must take immediate action to improve program accuracy, ensure taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly, and protect the long-term availability of food assistance for families who depend on it.

“HCA must take lowering the SNAP error rate seriously to protect this vital program for New Mexicans struggling to put food on the table and guard the state's budget from harmful impacts,” Vasquez wrote.

New Mexico currently has the third-highest SNAP payment error rate in the country at 16.81 percent. Under changes enacted in the Republican tax law, states with persistently high error rates could be required to shoulder a larger share of SNAP costs, putting up to $173 million in federal funding to New Mexico at risk each year if improvements are not made.

In his letter, Vasquez emphasized that he is committed to working with HCA to strengthen staff training, improve consistency across field offices, increase oversight, and leverage technology to verify data and reduce administrative errors.

“When New Mexicans pay their taxes, they deserve to know that their hard-earned dollars are being spent responsibly, lawfully, and for the good of the public. We must do better to maintain the public's trust in government,” Vasquez added.

Vasquez also highlighted the LFC's findings that many of the necessary reforms are straightforward and achievable, saying “Many of the changes that the LFC recommended are common sense.”

The Congressman pledged to work alongside the state to strengthen SNAP administration to protect long-term access to food assistance for New Mexico families.

“New Mexico must do everything possible to protect and properly allocate taxpayer dollars while supporting SNAP recipients,” Vasquez wrote. “I am committed to working with the state to increase caseworker training, provide support for better technology, and improve data efficiency in benefit approval.”

Last year, Vasquez voted against the Republican tax law (H.R. 1), which slashed $180 billion from food programs like SNAP and threatened vital food assistance for over 175,000 New Mexicans. The bill also cut support for Medicaid, jeopardizing healthcare access for more than 110,000 patients across New Mexico — 40,000 of those in Rep. Vasquez’s district — and risking the closure of eight rural hospitals serving patients in Rep. Vasquez’s district. All these cuts to programs hardworking New Mexicans rely on were made to fund tax cuts for wealthy elites.

###",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=642,"Reps. Leger Fernández, Stansbury, Vasquez Investigate Federal Drug Enforcement Actions that Allowed Fentanyl on to New Mexico’s Streets",2026-06-26,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Melanie Stansbury (D-NM), and Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administrator Terrance Cole demanding answers about reports that federal agents and prosecutors knowingly allowed hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills to flood the streets of Albuquerque and other New Mexico communities. The practice, known as “walking,” is an investigative tactic where law enforcement agencies, like the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), deliberately allow illicit drugs to pass through supply chains and reach the streets. Rep. Leger Fernández and the New Mexico delegation pressed Administrator Cole for an immediate briefing on DEA policies and its actions in New Mexico with respect to the fentanyl crisis.

“New Mexico families have lost too many loved ones because of fentanyl,” said Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández. “Every pill that makes it into our communities puts lives at risk. The law enforcement technology and drug interdiction resources our delegation has supported for years are meant to stop fentanyl from reaching our families—not let it through. New Mexicans deserve answers.”

“New Mexicans are paying the price for a fentanyl epidemic that is tearing families apart and deserve answers. We are demanding answers as to whether federal agents knowingly allowed fentanyl to reach and harm our communities,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury. “The DEA's own message is clear: one pill can kill. At a time when overdose deaths continue to devastate our state and communities, the DEA should be focused on stopping these drugs before they reach our streets—period.”

“Introducing high quantities of fentanyl into communities where drug abuse is prevalent is a highly dangerous and volatile approach,” said Rep. Vasquez. “I’m demanding answers from the DEA to understand exactly how this operation went down, who approved it, and what results, if any, it yielded. Fentanyl is a highly lethal drug that should be treated as such, as our hardworking members of local law enforcement work every day to eradicate this toxic substance from our streets, homes, and neighborhoods.”

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, even a small amount of fentanyl can provide a potentially lethal dose. Fentanyl is incredibly potent—about 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine—a deadly quantity is roughly equivalent in size to a few grains of salt.

New Mexico has now led the nation for two consecutive years in drug overdose deaths, and data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show our state’s overdose deaths rose nearly 23 percent over the past year while the national rate fell. Nonfatal suspected fentanyl overdoses treated in New Mexico emergency departments have reached their highest level since January 2023. These allegations also follow reports that DEA agents are being reassigned from drug trafficking cases to support the Administration’s mass deportation agenda.

This letter follows reporting from the Albuquerque Journal that the Drug Enforcement Administration may have allowed fentanyl to leak into Albuquerque and New Mexico streets.

You can find the full letter here.

Congresswoman Stansbury hosted a press call on this topic with New Mexico Speaker of the House, Javier Martinez. You can watch a recording of the press call here.

###",1,2026-06-27T06:16:17Z,2026-06-27T06:17:30Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=643,"Leger Fernández, Heinrich Introduce Bipartisan Defenders Of Bataan & Corregidor Congressional Gold Medal Act",2026-06-26,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"The legislation would bestow a collective Congressional Gold Medal, the nation’s highest and most distinguished civilian honor, to the individuals who fought for or with the United States in the Pacific Theater during World War II. After the fall of Bataan and Corregidor, many of these servicemembers endured one of the most harrowing war experiences in history: the Bataan Death March and the forced labor and torture at prisoner of war camps that followed. Bestowing these veterans with a Congressional Gold Medal would recognize their personal service and sacrifice.

“The American and Filipino defenders of Bataan and Corregidor endured an unimaginable level of abuse and responded with an equal amount of courage and strength,” said Leger Fernández. “The Bataan Death March was a horrific example of cruelty and inhumanity. As our Bataan veterans are passing, it's time we recognize the Bataan and Corregidor service members — including many New Mexican heroes — with the highest honor.”

“Nearly 2,000 New Mexico National Guardsmen fought alongside Allied forces in the Pacific Theater during World War II. These brave Americans endured the unimaginably harrowing Bataan Death March, and years of forced labor and torture in prisoner of war camps,” said Heinrich. “It was the courage and sacrifices of these brave Americans that ultimately made Allied victory possible. That’s why I'm so honored to re-introduce this legislation to recognize these heroic veterans with our nation’s highest and most distinguished honor.”

The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.) and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.).

“Thousands of servicemembers, including many New Mexicans, bravely defended the Bataan Peninsula during World War II before enduring the Bataan Death March and imprisonment as prisoners of war,” said Luján. “Our nation can never fully repay the debt we owe these veterans. Their courage, resilience, and sacrifice in the face of unimaginable hardship exemplify the very best of America. I’m proud to support this bipartisan effort to ensure Congress properly recognizes and honors these heroes for their extraordinary service and sacrifice.”

“The defenders of Bataan, Corregidor, Guam, Wake Island, Midway, and Java displayed extraordinary courage in the face of impossible odds,” said Stansbury. “In New Mexico, their legacy remains deeply personal. 1,800 New Mexicans were taken prisoner and forced to endure the Bataan Death March. 829 guardsman never returned home. Their sacrifice helped change the course of the war, and it is long past time that these heroes receive the recognition they deserve. I am proud to help reintroduce this bipartisan legislation to honor their service with a Congressional Gold Medal.”

“New Mexico has a distinct history of proud military service, and during WWII, our state disproportionately answered the call of duty, sending more young people into battle than any other state per capita,"" said Vasquez.""Among those brave young people who risked it all to protect their loved ones and our freedoms were 1,800 New Mexicans who were taken prisoner and forced to endure the Bataan Death March — less than half of whom would make it home. These American heroes put everything on the line for their country, and it is time for our country to honor and thank them with a Congressional Gold Medal.”

In the Senate, alongside Luján, the Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor Congressional Gold Medal Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Angus King (I-Maine), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.).

In the House, alongside Stansbury and Vasquez, the Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor Congressional Gold Medal Act is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Brian Babin (R-Texas), Don Bacon (R-Neb.), Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.), Mike Carey (R-Ohio), Andre Carson (D-Ind.), John Carter (R-Texas), Juan Ciscomani (R-Ariz.), Tom Cole (R-Okla.), Angie Craig (D-Minn.), Jason Crow (D-Colo.), Don Davis (D-N.C.), Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), Pat Fallon (R-Texas), Shomari Figures (D-Ala.), Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), Scott Franklin (R-Fla.), Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho), Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas), Jared Golden (D-Maine), Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.), Michael Guest (R-Miss.), Josh Harder (D-Calif.), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), Steny Hoyer (D-Md.), Jeff Hurd (R-Colo.), Bill Huizenga (R-Mich.), Mike Kelly (D-Pa.), King-Hinds (R- M.P.), Nick LaLota (R-N.Y.), Nick Langworthy (R-N.Y.), Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), Rich McCormick (R-Ga.), John McGuire (R-Va.), Grace Meng (D-N.Y.), Dave Min (D-Calif.), Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.), Gary Palmer (R-Ala.), Deborah Ross (D-N.C.), Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.), Victoria Spartz (R-Ind.), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.), Dina Titus (D-Nev.), Jill Tokuda (D-Hawaii), Bobby Scott (D-Va.), Brad Sherman (D-Calif.), Jefferson Shreve (R-Ind.), Pete Stauber (R-Minn.), Eugene Vindman (D-Va.), Joe Wilson (R-S.C.), Adelita Grijalva (D-Ariz.), Seth Moulton (D-Mass.), and Austin Scott (R-Ga.).

The Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor Congressional Gold Medal Act is endorsed by The American Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor Memorial Society, the New Mexico National Guard, and the Bataan-Corregidor Memorial Foundation of New Mexico.

“The American POWs of Imperial Japan represent one of the most profound examples of courage in our history. Many endured years of brutality, and far too many never returned home. A Congressional Gold Medal would finally provide the national recognition their sacrifice deserves. We are grateful to Senator Heinrich and the co-sponsors for spearheading and supporting this bill,” said Jan Thompson, President of the American Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor Memorial Society.

A one-pager of the bill is here.

The full text of the bill is here.

Background:

On December 8, 1941, hours after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Japanese bombers attacked U.S. military stations in the Philippines. Despite being cut off from supply lines and reinforcements, thousands of American and Filipino forces mounted a courageous, months-long defense of the Bataan Peninsula and then Corregidor Island in Manila Bay. This brave defense — alongside campaigns to defend the Midway Atoll, Wake Island, Guam, Java, and Mindanao – changed the momentum of the war, delaying the Japanese conquest of the Philippines and providing the Allied Forces with critical time to mount a campaign to liberate the Pacific.

On April 9, 1942, after the Battle of Bataan, approximately 75,000 troops from both the United States and the Philippines were taken prisoner by the Japanese. They were forced to endure a torturous march of more than 60 miles that came to be known as the “Bataan Death March” to prison camps throughout the Philippines. The marchers endured intense tropical heat without food, water, or medical care. An estimated 10,000 men — including thousands of Filipinos and hundreds of Americans — died from starvation, exhaustion, and abuse.

Survivors of the Bataan Death March were sent to Japanese prison camps for over three years, where they were subject to further torture, undernourishment, and forced labor. Others died when they were transported out of the Philippines, by way of unmarked Japanese Navy “hell ships” that were targeted by Allied Forces.

Out of the 1,816 New Mexico National Guardsmen in the 200th and 515th Coast Artillery who deployed to defend the Philippines in the fall of 1941, 829 never returned home.",1,2026-07-01T06:34:07Z,2026-07-01T06:35:35Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-stansbury-vasquez-leger-fernandez-investigate-federal-drug-enforcement,"Reps. Stansbury, Vasquez, Leger Fernández Investigate Federal Drug Enforcement Actions that Allowed Fentanyl on to New Mexico’s Streets",2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Melanie Stansbury (D-NM),, Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) sent a letter to U.S. Drug Enforcement Administrator Terrance Cole demanding answers about reports that federal agents and prosecutors knowingly allowed hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills to flood the streets of Albuquerque and other New Mexico communities. The practice, known as “walking,” is an investigative tactic where law enforcement agencies, like the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), deliberately allow illicit drugs to pass through supply chains and reach the streets. Rep. Stansbury and the New Mexico delegation pressed Administrator Cole for an immediate briefing on DEA policies and actions in New Mexico its actions with respect to the fentanyl crisis.

“New Mexicans are paying the price for a fentanyl epidemic that is tearing families apart and deserve answers. We are demanding answers as to whether federal agents knowingly allowed fentanyl to reach and harm our communities,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury. “The DEA's own message is clear: one pill can kill. At a time when overdose deaths continue to devastate our state and communities, the DEA should be focused on stopping these drugs before they reach our streets—period.”

“Introducing high quantities of fentanyl into communities where drug abuse is prevalent is a highly dangerous and volatile approach,” said Rep. Vasquez. “I’m demanding answers from the DEA to understand exactly how this operation went down, who approved it, and what results, if any, it yielded. Fentanyl is a highly lethal drug that should be treated as such, as our hardworking members of local law enforcement work every day to eradicate this toxic substance from our streets, homes, and neighborhoods.”

“New Mexico families have lost too many loved ones because of fentanyl,” said Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández. “Every pill that makes it into our communities puts lives at risk. The law enforcement technology and drug interdiction resources our delegation has supported for years are meant to stop fentanyl from reaching our families—not let it through. New Mexicans deserve answers.”

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, even a small amount of fentanyl can provide a potentially lethal dose. Fentanyl is incredibly potent—about 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine—a deadly quantity is roughly equivalent in size to a few grains of salt.

New Mexico has now led the nation for two consecutive years in drug overdose deaths, and data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show our state’s overdose deaths rose nearly 23 percent over the past year while the national rate fell. Nonfatal suspected fentanyl overdoses treated in New Mexico emergency departments have reached their highest level since January 2023. These allegations also follow reports that DEA agents are being reassigned from drug trafficking cases to support the Administration’s mass deportation agenda.

This letter follows reporting from the Albuquerque Journal that the Drug Enforcement Administration may have allowed fentanyl to leak into Albuquerque and New Mexico streets.

You can find the full letter here.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-supports-usda-field-office-stability-act-keep-usda-offices,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Supports the USDA Field Office Stability Act to Keep USDA Offices Open for Farmers and Rural Communities,2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 25, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) cosponsored bipartisan legislation led by Reps. Sharice Davids (D-KS) and Derek Schmidt (R-KS) to prevent the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) from closing essential services due to staffing shortages — the USDA Field Office Stability Act.

This bill prohibits USDA from closing or relocating Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Farm Service Agency (FSA), and Rural Development (RD) county and field offices and requires minimum staffing levels to ensure farmers, ranchers, and rural communities continue to have reliable, in-person access to USDA services during regular business hours.

During a visit earlier this month to Myster E. Farms in Albuquerque, Vasquez met with local farmers and the Center for Southwest Culture to discuss the direct impact USDA staffing issues have on communities in New Mexico. He also heard concerns about staffing concerns from almost every member of his Agriculture Advisory Group during his most recent meeting with the group in June. Vasquez took these concerns directly to Secretary Rollins that same week.

New Mexico alone has lost 640 USDA employees between 2025 and 2026, putting New Mexico in the top 10% of states experiencing rapid staff shortages and plunging local producers into uncertainty and lengthy delays.

Vasquez’s support for the USDA Field Office Stability Act reflects his commitment to holding the USDA accountable and his support for the agricultural industry:

In April 2025, Vasquez introduced the Honor Farmer Contracts Act to ensure the USDA fulfills its commitments to farmers by releasing frozen funds and preventing it from canceling legally binding contracts.

He launchedthe NM-02 Agriculture Advisory Group, composed of agricultural leaders from across the district, and connected local farmers, ranchers, and business owners from New Mexico directly with House Agriculture Committee Chairman Thompson.

Introduced the Strengthening Our Workforce Act to provide non-citizens working in critical sectors — including agriculture workers — a path to lawful permanent status, bringing much-needed stability for workers who make up the backbone of the American economy.

He led the bipartisan Farm Workforce Support Act to advance H-2A visa reform for the farm workers who sustain our agriculture industry.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-leads-congressional-delegation-demanding-accountability-and,Rep. Stansbury leads Congressional Delegation in Demanding Accountability and Congressional Investigation into Fentanyl Flooding New Mexico’s Streets,2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) sent a letter to House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-KY) and Ranking Member Robert Garcia (D-CA), and House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH) and Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (D-MD), to demand the committees begin public hearings and investigations into the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. This follows whistleblower reports that federal agents may have allowed hundreds of thousands of deadly fentanyl pills to reach the streets of New Mexico’s communities over the last several years. Additionally, the delegation demanded an inquiry into the policies and practices that led to deadly fentanyl being allowed to be distributed and sold across New Mexico, and to examine necessary policy and legislative changes to address these issues.

The practice, known as “walking,” is an investigative tactic where law enforcement agencies, like the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), deliberately allow illicit drugs to pass through supply chains and reach the streets. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, even a small amount of fentanyl can provide a potentially lethal dose. Fentanyl is incredibly potent—about 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine—a deadly quantity is roughly equivalent in size to a few grains of salt.

New Mexico has now led the nation for two consecutive years in drug overdose deaths, and data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show the state’s overdose deaths rose nearly 23 percent over the past year while the national rate fell. Nonfatal suspected fentanyl overdoses treated in New Mexico emergency departments have reached their highest level since January 2023. These allegations also follow reports that DEA agents are being reassigned from drug trafficking cases to support the Administration’s mass deportation agenda.

The call for public hearings and investigations follows reporting from the Albuquerque Journal that the Drug Enforcement Administration may have allowed fentanyl to leak into Albuquerque and New Mexico streets. Additionally, Rep. Stansbury and the New Mexico delegation pressed DEA Administrator Cole for an immediate briefing on DEA policies and actions in New Mexico its actions with respect to the fentanyl crisis.

You can read the full letter here or below:

Dear Chairman Comer, Chairman Jordan, Ranking Member Garcia, and Ranking Member Raskin,

We are writing to urgently request the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform and the Judiciary Committee conduct oversight over the federal Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA's) fentanyl enforcement policies and practices, and recent reports that federal agents may have allowed hundreds of thousands of deadly fentanyl pills to reach the streets of New Mexico’s communities over the last several years.

The New Mexico delegation urgently requests the Committees hold public oversight hearings with officials who oversee these programs, conduct an inquiry into the policies and practices that led to deadly fentanyl being allowed to be sold and distributed, and discuss legislative changes to address these issues.

Recent reporting has revealed that the DEA allowed hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills to hit the streets of New Mexico, including accounts by multiple current and former agents, internal agency records, and a formal whistleblower complaint filed by a longtime DEA agent who raised alarms about the practice years before it became public.[1]

According to these accounts, DEA agents monitored fentanyl shipments and then allowed them to reach their destination, in the hopes of building larger cases against major traffickers.[2] While agents monitored shipments, deadly fentanyl pills reportedly remained unintercepted as officials sought to investigate and prosecute other and larger cases. This occurred despite the immense risk to public safety in New Mexico's communities, given the extraordinary lethality of the substance. As the DEA’s own campaign warns: just One Pill Can Kill.[3]

For years we have fought to keep fentanyl off our streets as New Mexico has remained in the grip of a crisis unlike anything our state has previously faced. This makes these allegations—the known release of fentanyl into our communities—particularly concerning and prime for investigation from the Committees. For two consecutive years, New Mexico has led the nation in the rate of increase in drug overdose deaths.[4] Over the past year alone, overdose deaths in our state rose nearly 23 percent even as the national rate declined.[5] Hospitals are now seeing the highest number of nonfatal suspected fentanyl overdoses since January 2023. Behind these statistics, New Mexico families are burying children, neighbors, loved ones, and friends.

We are demanding immediate oversight and accountability. The Committees hold broad, government-wide jurisdiction to examine the operations of federal agencies, making them uniquely positioned to investigate a matter that touches DEA practices, Department of Justice policy, and whistleblower retaliation. The Committees also have a long history of examining similar institutional failures at the federal level, and it offers the appropriate venue to investigate it. If federal agents and prosecutors permitted known fentanyl shipments to proceed unintercepted, the public has a right to know why and what the consequences were for New Mexico’s communities.

It is critical that DEA leadership, experts, and representatives of impacted communities testify publicly about these practices, including the internal guidance and approval process governing decisions to let known fentanyl shipments proceed, the safeguards in place to prevent such decisions from resulting in overdose deaths, and how the agency is currently deploying its personnel and resources in New Mexico. To understand the impacts to our state, it is critical to determine the specific timeline and decisions by the DEA and U.S. Attorney's Office regarding all controlled deliveries in New Mexico over the past two years, including who authorized each action and any risk assessments associated with these deliveries. We also are demanding a full disclosure of these documents from the agencies themselves.

We thank you for your attention to this matter and respectfully request that the Committees hold a hearing on this matter at the earliest opportunity and join us in demanding accountability. We appreciate your attention to this request and look forward to collaborating on bipartisan oversight into this pressing issue.

###",1,2026-07-29T07:41:48Z,2026-07-29T07:42:57Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-marks-four-years-roe-v-wade-was-overturned-announces-support,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Marks Four Years Since Roe v. Wade Was Overturned, Announces Support for Protecting Reproductive Freedom Act",2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Four years ago today, on June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court issued the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision, overturning Roe v. Wade and ending the constitutional right to abortion. Since then, MAGA extremists have continued their assault on women’s reproductive rights across the country, with extreme Republican lawmakers repeatedly attacking access to abortion medication and contraception and attempting to rollback rights nationwide through the courts and Congress in recent months. To mark the milestone anniversary of this devastating court ruling, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) shared the below statement and announced his support of the Protecting Reproductive Freedom Act, a bill to protect women’s access to abortion medication, including mifepristone.

“Four years after Roe was overturned, women are still paying the price for extremists’ attacks on reproductive freedom,” said Vasquez. “Abortion is health care, and politicians have no business making these deeply personal decisions for women and their families. Every woman deserves the freedom to make her own health care decisions in consultation with her doctor and guided by her own faith and values — not the government’s. I’m proud to support legislation protecting access to abortion medication, and I’ll never stop fighting to defend women’s rights and reproductive freedom.”

The Protecting Reproductive Freedom Act safeguards access to medication abortion by reaffirming the Food and Drug Administration's longstanding approval of mifepristone, which has been safely used for more than 25 years. The bill also protects health care providers' ability to prescribe medication abortion through telehealth and allows patients to receive the medication by mail, helping ensure people can access care regardless of where they live.

Rep. Vasquez is firmly committed to protecting reproductive freedom in this country and has consistently voted to protect women’s right to make their own health care decisions in consultation with their doctors and their faith, including:

Rep. Vasquez supported the Women’s Health Protection Act (H.R. 12), which protects a woman's right to make her own reproductive health care decisions and ensures health care providers can continue offering abortion care without politicians standing between patients and their doctors. The bill also protects the right to travel to another state to receive abortion care, helping ensure women can still access care even if it is unavailable where they live.

Rep. Vasquez championed the Right to Contraception Act (H.R. 999), which safeguards an individual’s right to access and use contraceptives and ensures health care providers can offer contraception and related services without political interference.

Rep. Vasquez backed H.Res. 238, which affirms that every person has a basic right to emergency health care – including abortion care – and reinforces federal protections so patients and doctors can make lifesaving decisions without fear or confusion.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-votes-expand-access-preventive-and-diagnostic-care-alzheimers-and,Rep. Vasquez Votes to Expand Access to Preventive and Diagnostic Care for Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias,2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 24, 2026 — during Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month — U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) supported legislation that would combat Alzheimer's disease by expanding access to preventive and diagnostic healthcare under Medicare. Over 46,000 New Mexicans are currently living with Alzheimer’s, and 68,000 New Mexicans provide uncompensated care for loved ones living with the disease.

Under current law, Medicare can cover a limited array of diagnostic tests and preventive services related to Alzheimer’s and dementia, but some screenings and blood tests are excluded. The bipartisan Alzheimer’s Screening and Prevention (ASAP) Act would expand Medicare coverage for FDA-approved blood tests that can help detect Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia earlier, which would shorten the time to diagnosis and reduce costs for New Mexicans. Early detection gives New Mexicans valuable time to begin treatment, make informed decisions, and lean on loved ones and support services.

“Over 46,000 New Mexicans are currently grappling with Alzheimer’s, and most of us have seen this disease’s devastating impact firsthand with our own loved ones or members of our community,” said Vasquez. “Early detection is our best tool when it comes to combating Alzheimer’s, and this Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness month, I’m supporting bipartisan legislation to make Alzheimer's treatment and prevention more affordable and accessible for hardworking folks.”

Vasquez also supports the Accelerating Access to Dementia and Alzheimer’s Provider Training (AADAPT) Act, which gives primary care providers additional tools and training to accurately and confidently diagnose Alzheimer’s and other dementias. This bill will educate primary care providers, including those in rural and underserved communities where speciality care can be out of reach, on the necessary steps to diagnose individuals experiencing cognitive decline.

These bills honor the 46,000 New Mexicans living with Alzheimer’s disease by paving the way for accessible preventative care, and they build on Rep. Vasquez’s work to cut down costs and expand access to healthcare, including:

Consistently opposing efforts to cut Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid and ensuring seniors have access to the benefits they have earned and quality, affordable healthcare

Introducing the Careworkers Visa Act to bring down the cost of in-home healthcare and eldercare by creating a new legal visa pathway for qualified careworkers, curbing crippling workforce shortages as the population ages

Supporting the Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act to make it easier for New Mexicans to see the doctors and specialists they need by increasing the health care workforce

Cosponsoring the Protecting Healthcare and Lowering Costs Act to reverse devastating health care cuts in the Republican tax law and permanently extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits

Championing the Rural Health Care Facilities Revitalization Act, aiding rural health centers to improve equipment and services

Voting to slash prescription drug costs, expand coverage for seniors, and ensure price transparency by passing the bipartisan Lower Costs, More Transparency Act

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-champions-expanded-access-preventive-and-diagnostic-care,Rep. Vasquez Champions Expanded Access to Preventive and Diagnostic Care for Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias,2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 24, 2026 — during Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month — U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) supported legislation that would combat Alzheimer's disease by expanding access to preventive and diagnostic healthcare under Medicare. Over 46,000 New Mexicans are currently living with Alzheimer’s, and 68,000 New Mexicans provide uncompensated care for loved ones living with the disease.

Under current law, Medicare can cover a limited array of diagnostic tests and preventive services related to Alzheimer’s and dementia, but some screenings and blood tests are excluded. The bipartisan Alzheimer’s Screening and Prevention (ASAP) Act would expand Medicare coverage for FDA-approved blood tests that can help detect Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia earlier, which would shorten the time to diagnosis and reduce costs for New Mexicans. Early detection gives New Mexicans valuable time to begin treatment, make informed decisions, and lean on loved ones and support services.

“Over 46,000 New Mexicans are currently grappling with Alzheimer’s, and most of us have seen this disease’s devastating impact firsthand with our own loved ones or members of our community,” said Vasquez. “Early detection is our best tool when it comes to combating Alzheimer’s, and this Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness month, I’m supporting bipartisan legislation to make Alzheimer's treatment and prevention more affordable and accessible for hardworking folks.”

Vasquez also supports the Accelerating Access to Dementia and Alzheimer’s Provider Training (AADAPT) Act, which gives primary care providers additional tools and training to accurately and confidently diagnose Alzheimer’s and other dementias. This bill will educate primary care providers, including those in rural and underserved communities where speciality care can be out of reach, on the necessary steps to diagnose individuals experiencing cognitive decline.

These bills honor the 46,000 New Mexicans living with Alzheimer’s disease by paving the way for accessible preventative care, and they build on Rep. Vasquez’s work to cut down costs and expand access to healthcare, including:

Consistently opposing efforts to cut Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid and ensuring seniors have access to the benefits they have earned and quality, affordable healthcare

Introducing the Careworkers Visa Act to bring down the cost of in-home healthcare and eldercare by creating a new legal visa pathway for qualified careworkers, curbing crippling workforce shortages as the population ages

Supporting the Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act to make it easier for New Mexicans to see the doctors and specialists they need by increasing the health care workforce

Cosponsoring the Protecting Healthcare and Lowering Costs Act to reverse devastating health care cuts in the Republican tax law and permanently extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits

Championing the Rural Health Care Facilities Revitalization Act, aiding rural health centers to improve equipment and services

Voting to slash prescription drug costs, expand coverage for seniors, and ensure price transparency by passing the bipartisan Lower Costs, More Transparency Act

###",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-stansbury-schweikert-grijalva-stanton-and-leger-fernandez-send-bipartisan,"Reps. Stansbury, Schweikert, Grijalva, Stanton, and Leger Fernandez send Bipartisan Letter to Secretaries Rollins, Kennedy on Screwworm Outbreak",2026-06-22,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Melanie Stansbury (D-NM), David Schweikert (R-AZ), Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ), Greg Stanton (D-AZ), and Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-NM) sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to push for urgent action to address the confirmed detection of New World screwworm (NWS) in the United States for the first time in sixty years. The letter requests full agency coordination and deployment of all federal resources necessary to contain the New World Screwworm (NWS) outbreak in New Mexico and across the country.

""New World screwworm has now reached New Mexico, putting our ranchers, livestock, wildlife, pets, and rural economies at risk,"" said Rep. Melanie Stansbury. ""We successfully eradicated screwworm once before through innovation and coordination across every level of government. To do so again, federal agencies must work together with Congress, state, local, and Tribal governments, and producers to ensure that our response is fully resourced, rapid, and well-coordinated. We stand ready to work with our federal, state, and local partners to protect New Mexico's communities, livestock industry, and food supply.""

“Arizona’s ranchers and veterinarians need clear guidance as federal agencies respond to confirmed New World screwworm cases in Texas and New Mexico,” said Rep. David Schweikert. “I am asking USDA and HHS to provide Congress with a clear accounting of sterile fly production and dispersal capacity, surveillance capabilities, treatment guidance and the resources needed to contain this outbreak. Decades ago, the United States eradicated screwworm with sterile fly technology and aggressive field surveillance. Now we need to use those same tools, keep livestock producers informed and stop this outbreak from spreading.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the first case of New World screwworm in a calf in Zavala County, Texas, on June 3, 2026. Since then, the outbreak has grown to twelve confirmed cases, including the first confirmed case in a pet dog in Lea County, New Mexico, last week.

New World screwworm larvae burrow into a cow’s living flesh, feeding aggressively and tearing at healthy tissue. This creates deep, expanding wounds that are highly prone to secondary infections. If left untreated, the infestation causes severe pain, weight loss, and is often fatal within 7 to 10 days. This spread, the result of a sustained northward advance of NWS through Central America and Mexico since 2023, represents a serious threat to American livestock producers, companion animals, wildlife, and our country’s food supply. NWS can infest livestock, pets, wildlife, occasionally birds, and in rare cases, people.

For New Mexico screwworm resources: screwwormnm.org

You can read the full letter below:

Dear Secretary Rollins and Secretary Kennedy:

We write to express our deep concern regarding the confirmed detection of New World screwworm (NWS) in the United States for the first time in sixty years. Since USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the first case in a calf in Zavala County, Texas, on June 3, 2026, the outbreak has grown to twelve confirmed cases, including the first confirmed case in a pet dog in Lea County, New Mexico, last week. This spread, the result of a sustained northward advance of NWS through Central America and Mexico since 2023, represents a serious threat to American livestock producers, companion animals, wildlife, and our country’s food supply. We urge both Departments to ensure that the federal response is fully resourced, rapid, and well-coordinated in responding to this threat.

We recognize USDA’s completion of the sterile fly dispersal facility at Moore Air Base in Edinburg, Texas, the investment of $21 million to expand production capacity in Mexico, and the deployment of sterile flies in South Texas and surrounding areas. We also commend the Food and Drug Administration for its emergency authorization of treatments for affected animals. The crossing of the NWS into U.S. territory is a threshold moment that demands a proportional escalation.

The federal response must reflect a true whole-of-government commitment. NWS

threatens a broad range of federal equities, including economic losses for livestock producers and potential infestations in wildlife and companion animals. While the current human risk remains low, the documented presence of the fly in the United States requires vigilance and clear public health guidance. We ask that USDA and HHS establish formal, ongoing coordination between APHIS, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and relevant state agencies in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and other affected or at-risk states to ensure that surveillance, treatment guidance, and public communication are coordinated. Workforce capacity, including the institutional knowledge needed to manage this response effectively, should also be assessed, particularly given ongoing staffing pressures across federal agencies.

To ensure the response is fully resourced and proportional to the threat, we respectfully request that USDA provide our offices with the following:

A detailed accounting of current and planned sterile fly production and dispersal capacity, including timelines for any additional facilities or resources needed to address the spread of NWS;

An assessment of surveillance and monitoring capacity in at-risk states, and any additional resources required to expand it;

Updated, clear guidance for livestock producers, veterinarians, and the public on NWS prevention, detection, and treatment, including how producers can access USDA resources and support;

A staffing and workforce assessment for APHIS and other agencies involved in the NWS response, to ensure adequate personnel are in place to carry it out;

Regular updates to Congress on case counts, response activities, and resource needs; and

An estimate of additional resources, including any supplemental funding for local agriculture extension services, that would be needed to fully resource the response.

The United States successfully eradicated NWS once before, through decades of sustained effort and scientific ingenuity. We are confident that with the full and coordinated mobilization of federal resources, we can do so again.

We stand ready to work with both Departments, State governments, local extension services, and our colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure that producers, veterinarians, and communities across the country have the support they need. We appreciate your prompt attention to this matter and look forward to your response.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-vasquez-visits-belen-highlight-1-million-investment-upgrade,ICYMI: Rep. Vasquez Visits Belen to Highlight $1 Million Investment to Upgrade Wastewater Treatment System,2026-06-22,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"BELEN, N.M. – On June 18, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) visited Belen’s wastewater treatment facility to highlight the over $1 million he brought home to the city to make much-needed repairs. The funding, which was secured through the Fiscal Year 2026 Community Project Funding process, will be used to repair cracks, rebuild a lift system, and build an aeration diffuser system – ensuring that every Belen resident has access to clean, safe drinking water.

“Belen is growing, which means its infrastructure needs to grow with it. I’m proud to have secured over a million dollars to rebuild the Belen wastewater treatment facility, and it was great to see it up close this week,” said Vasquez. “New Mexicans know just how precious water is, and I’m making sure every Belen resident has clean and safe drinking water — and that water systems in every corner of our district have the best and latest technology to ensure safe water processing and clean results.”

Through Community Project Funding, Rep. Vasquez has brought home over $30 million in funding to rebuild roads, police departments and firehouses — making New Mexico safer and more affordable, one project at a time. He’s also supported USDA Rural Development Water programs, which help rural communities construct and upgrade drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure systems.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=641,Rep. Leger Fernández Introduces Bipartisan Solution to Protect America’s Herds From New World Screwworm,2026-06-18,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 18, 2026 — following confirmed cases of the New World screwworm (NWS) in Texas and New Mexico — U.S. Representatives Leger Fernández and Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the Protecting America’s Herds Act, an innovative, bipartisan solution to combat the spread of the parasite, herd loss, and a jump in beef prices.

The bill — which has 13 cosponsors from both sides of the aisle, including Rep. Leger Fernández — helps ranchers fight NWS by funding local experts who can train inspectors, inspect livestock, educate producers, and provide the hands-on support needed to catch outbreaks early and stop them from spreading.

The bill has been endorsed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, New Mexico State University, the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association, the Public Lands Council, and Rocky Mountain Farmers Union.

“The first confirmed case of New World screwworm in New Mexico is a reminder that we cannot take our agricultural security for granted. Ranchers, producers, veterinarians, and agricultural experts have been warning about this threat for months and calling for stronger preparation before it reached our communities,” said Leger Fernández. “Unfortunately, the federal response did not match the urgency of the moment. Now that screwworm has arrived, we have a responsibility to step up and give our producers the tools they need to protect their herds. The Protecting America’s Herds Act will help provide the training, technical assistance, and local support needed to identify outbreaks early, respond quickly, and limit the damage to livestock, rural economies, and the families who depend on them.”

“For New Mexicans, the New World screwworm is not a distant problem. It's here, right in our backyard. That's why I'm raising the alarm in Congress and leading a bipartisan effort to make sure lawmakers understand this isn't just a New Mexico or Southwest issue — it's a national threat to our food supply, our ranchers, and American families — and we need to respond now,” said Vasquez. “Our ranchers have already been hit by years of drought, rising input costs, and record-low cattle herds. The last thing we need is a flesh-eating parasite threatening their herds and driving up beef prices for American families. That's why I'm leading this bill and calling on USDA to ramp up staffing, speed the completion of the sterile fly production facility, and give producers the resources they need to detect and stop this outbreak before it gets worse.”

The NWS was eradicated from the U.S. in 1966, meaning many producers today have never encountered the pest. This bill provides the essential training and support they need to prevent the outbreak from spiraling into a crisis through early detection and rapid response efforts.

Specifically, the bill would equip the Cooperative Extension System to:

Train personnel and producers on New World screwworm identification, treatment, management, prevention, and reporting through workshops, direct technical assistance, field demonstrations, and outreach campaigns

Allow Extension agents to act as livestock inspectors and deputize them to train and hire additional livestock inspectors

Enhance coordination with USDA APHIS, veterinarians, state animal health officials, and Tribal agricultural programs

Prioritize funding for states and Tribal communities at elevated risk of NWS introduction or spread

Leger Fernández joined Vasquez to unveil his bill at a briefing and press conference they convened in Albuquerque today with agriculture and livestock experts from across New Mexico, as well as the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In addition to introducing this new bipartisan solution, the representatives called on the USDA to expedite the completion of the sterile fly production facility in Texas — a vital project that he requested a status update on from Secretary Rollins back in mid-April ahead of the peak summer outbreak season.

During the briefing, livestock officials also noted they do not expect the NWS outbreak to materially impact beef prices and flagged for consumers that American beef products remain safe for consumption.

State and federal experts who attended today’s briefing and shared updates, insights, and recommendations included:

New Mexico Department of Agriculture

Les Owen, Deputy Secretary

New Mexico Livestock Board

Belinda Garland, Executive Director

Samantha Holeck, State Veterinarian

Dairy Producers of New Mexico

Beverly Idsinga, Executive Director

New Mexico State University - Extension Office

Tom Dean, Department Head for Cooperative Extension Service

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish

Stewart Liley, Chief of Wildlife Management

New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association

Dr. Tom Paterson, President

New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau

Larry Reagan, President

U.S. Department of Agriculture - Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Dr. Sara Ahola, New World Screwworm National Incident Coordinator

Cosponsors of the Protecting America's Herds Act include Representatives Sharice Davids (KS-03), Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Shomari Figures (AL-02), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Josh Harder (CA-09), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Marc Veasey (TX-33), and Michael McCaul (TX-10).

“Protecting our livestock means protecting rural jobs and our economy,” said Rep. Veasey (TX-33). “The Protecting America’s Herds Act gives producers the resources they need to stay ahead of threats before they become costly crises and invests in the safeguards needed to keep destructive pests from reaching our livestock.”

“As the New World Screwworm has now been found in the United States, it’s critical that we take an all-hands on deck approach to identify and address new cases. Even in small states like Maine, a screwworm outbreak can have an outsized impact, especially at a time when families are already dealing with rising costs in every facet of their lives,” said Rep. Pingree (ME-01). “This commonsense legislation would give states the tools and people power they need to stop this outbreak in its tracks, while improving their ability to respond to future threats.”

""These parasitic swarms kill livestock, drive up milk and beef prices, and can even infect humans — we have to stop this outbreak before it spreads even more,"" said Rep. Harder (CA-09). ""This bill jumpstarts detection and prevention efforts by giving dairies and ranchers the support they need to keep their livestock healthy. Passing this bill ASAP should be a no-brainer.""

“A strong agricultural economy depends on giving producers the resources they need to prepare for challenges before they become crises. The New World screwworm is a threat we cannot ignore,” said Rep. Thompson (MS-02). “By strengthening Cooperative Extension Services, this legislation will help producers detect infestations early, protect their livestock, and improve our ability to respond before outbreaks become more widespread. Taking these steps now will help protect our agricultural economy, support rural communities, and strengthen our nation's food supply.”

Here’s what endorsing organizations have to say about the bill:

“I strongly support this important legislation to enhance our state’s preparedness and response to the New World screwworm. By investing in the training of Extension professionals, strengthening producer outreach, and equipping our local offices to serve as trusted resources, this bill ensures that New Mexicans have timely access to science-based information and assistance,” said Jon Boren, the Associate Dean and Director at New Mexico State University’s College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. “This proactive approach will help protect animal health, safeguard our agricultural economy, and strengthen the resilience of communities across New Mexico. We appreciate this commitment to prevention, education, and rapid response.”

“Extension agents and their staff are among the most trusted agricultural professionals in many communities. They know our producers, understand local conditions, and can play a critical role in educating the public and helping detect New World screwworm in our livestock,” said Tom Paterson, President of the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association. “Congressman Vasquez is proposing a practical, common-sense approach that strengthens our frontline defenses against a devastating livestock pest. New Mexico Cattle Growers strongly supports this legislation and appreciates his leadership on this issue.”

“Rocky Mountain Farmers Union believes that expanding access to technical assistance for producers is a critical investment in the long-term health and resilience of the U.S. livestock industry,” said Chad Franke, President of Rocky Mountain Farmers Union. “Enhanced support helps safeguard our nation's cattle herd, strengthen rural economies, and provide producers with tools to help address emerging challenges. This is especially urgent as threats such as New World Screwworm continue to grow and the U.S. cattle herd is at a 75-year low.”

“Eradicating New World screwworm half a century ago required a full-court press, leveraging partnerships at the federal, state, and local levels. Eradicating the current outbreak in New Mexico and Texas will require the same level of investment. Mobilizing Cooperative Extension agents in the fight against this pest is a practical use of existing expertise and personnel on the ground,” said the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. “We appreciate Congressman Vasquez’s focus on this urgent issue facing New Mexico ranchers.”",1,2026-06-19T06:50:32Z,2026-06-19T06:53:40Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-introduces-bipartisan-solution-protect-americas-herds-new,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Introduces Bipartisan Solution to Protect America’s Herds From New World Screwworm,2026-06-18,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – On June 18, 2026 — following confirmed cases of the New World screwworm (NWS) in Texas and New Mexico — U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the Protecting America’s Herds Act, an innovative, bipartisan solution to combat the spread of the parasite, herd loss, and a jump in beef prices.

The bill — which has 13 cosponsors from both sides of the aisle, including Rep. Leger-Fernández — helps ranchers fight NWS by funding local experts who can train inspectors, inspect livestock, educate producers, and provide the hands-on support needed to catch outbreaks early and stop them from spreading.

The bill has been endorsed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, New Mexico State University, the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association, the Public Lands Council, and Rocky Mountain Farmers Union.

“For New Mexicans, the New World screwworm is not a distant problem. It's here, right in our backyard. That's why I'm raising the alarm in Congress and leading a bipartisan effort to make sure lawmakers understand this isn't just a New Mexico or Southwest issue — it's a national threat to our food supply, our ranchers, and American families — and we need to respond now,” said Vasquez. “Our ranchers have already been hit by years of drought, rising input costs, and record-low cattle herds. The last thing we need is a flesh-eating parasite threatening their herds and driving up beef prices for American families. That's why I'm leading this bill and calling on USDA to ramp up staffing, speed the completion of the sterile fly production facility, and give producers the resources they need to detect and stop this outbreak before it gets worse.”

The NWS was eradicated from the U.S. in 1966, meaning many producers today have never encountered the pest. This bill provides the essential training and support they need to prevent the outbreak from spiraling into a crisis through early detection and rapid response efforts.

Specifically, the bill would equip the Cooperative Extension System to:

Train personnel and producers on New World screwworm identification, treatment, management, prevention, and reporting through workshops, direct technical assistance, field demonstrations, and outreach campaigns

Allow Extension agents to act as livestock inspectors and deputize them to train and hire additional livestock inspectors

Enhance coordination with USDA APHIS, veterinarians, state animal health officials, and Tribal agricultural programs

Prioritize funding for states and Tribal communities at elevated risk of NWS introduction or spread

Vasquez unveiled his bill at a briefing and press conference he and Representative Teresa Leger Fernández convened in Albuquerque today with agriculture and livestock experts from across New Mexico, as well as the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In addition to introducing this new bipartisan solution, Vasquez called on the USDA to expedite the completion of the sterile fly production facility in Texas — a vital project that he requested a status update on from Secretary Rollins back in mid-April ahead of the peak summer outbreak season.

“When extreme weather and disease shrink our U.S. cattle herds, ranchers struggle and American consumers feel the pain at the grocery store with rising beef prices,” said Vasquez back in April. “Instead of undermining U.S. ranchers by importing foreign beef from Argentina, the USDA should be focused on doing everything it can to improve, strengthen, and protect our domestic cattle herds — including taking steps to prevent outbreaks of the New World Screwworm. It is critical that the Administration continue to work with Congress and industry to ensure that everyone is on the same page to effectively mitigate any widespread outbreak of NWS in the U.S. before it devastates American ranchers.”

During the briefing, livestock officials also noted they do not expect the NWS outbreak to materially impact beef prices and flagged for consumers that American beef products remain safe for consumption.

State and federal experts who attended today’s briefing and shared updates, insights, and recommendations included:

New Mexico Department of Agriculture

Les Owen, Deputy Secretary

New Mexico Livestock Board

Belinda Garland, Executive Director

Samantha Holeck, State Veterinarian

Dairy Producers of New Mexico

Beverly Idsinga, Executive Director

New Mexico State University - Extension Office

Tom Dean, Department Head for Cooperative Extension Service

New Mexico Department of Game and Fish

Stewart Liley, Chief of Wildlife Management

New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association

Dr. Tom Paterson, President

New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau

Larry Reagan, President

U.S. Department of Agriculture - Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Dr. Sara Ahola, New World Screwworm National Incident Coordinator

Cosponsors of the Protecting America's Herds Act include Representatives Sharice Davids (KS-03), Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Shomari Figures (AL-02), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Josh Harder (CA-09), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Marc Veasey (TX-33), and Michael McCaul (TX-10).

“The first confirmed case of New World screwworm in New Mexico is a reminder that we cannot take our agricultural security for granted. Ranchers, producers, veterinarians, and agricultural experts have been warning about this threat for months and calling for stronger preparation before it reached our communities,” said Leger-Fernández. “Unfortunately, the federal response did not match the urgency of the moment. Now that screwworm has arrived, we have a responsibility to step up and give our producers the tools they need to protect their herds. The Protecting America’s Herds Act will help provide the training, technical assistance, and local support needed to identify outbreaks early, respond quickly, and limit the damage to livestock, rural economies, and the families who depend on them.”

“Protecting our livestock means protecting rural jobs and our economy,” said Rep. Veasey (TX-33). “The Protecting America’s Herds Act gives producers the resources they need to stay ahead of threats before they become costly crises and invests in the safeguards needed to keep destructive pests from reaching our livestock.”

“As the New World Screwworm has now been found in the United States, it’s critical that we take an all-hands on deck approach to identify and address new cases. Even in small states like Maine, a screwworm outbreak can have an outsized impact, especially at a time when families are already dealing with rising costs in every facet of their lives,” said Rep. Pingree (ME-01). “This commonsense legislation would give states the tools and people power they need to stop this outbreak in its tracks, while improving their ability to respond to future threats.”

""These parasitic swarms kill livestock, drive up milk and beef prices, and can even infect humans — we have to stop this outbreak before it spreads even more,"" said Rep. Harder (CA-09). ""This bill jumpstarts detection and prevention efforts by giving dairies and ranchers the support they need to keep their livestock healthy. Passing this bill ASAP should be a no-brainer.""

“A strong agricultural economy depends on giving producers the resources they need to prepare for challenges before they become crises. The New World screwworm is a threat we cannot ignore,” said Rep. Thompson (MS-02). “By strengthening Cooperative Extension Services, this legislation will help producers detect infestations early, protect their livestock, and improve our ability to respond before outbreaks become more widespread. Taking these steps now will help protect our agricultural economy, support rural communities, and strengthen our nation's food supply.”

""Before it was eradicated half a century ago, New World Screwworm wreaked havoc on livestock and ruthlessly damaged agricultural economies across the southwest,” said Rep. McCaul (TX-10). “Preventing a similar tragedy will require re-education, training, and additional resources to swiftly detect cases and stop new infections. I’m proud to support this important legislation to protect Texans’ livestock and livelihoods from this brutal parasite.”

""The New World screwworm is here. It has reached New Mexico, putting our ranchers, livestock, wildlife, and rural economies at risk,” said Rep. Stansbury (NM-01). “Screwworm could cause devastating loss if not detected and contained quickly, and that's why we need the Protecting America's Herds Act. This bill will ensure farmers and local communities have the technical assistance and resources they need to identify, prevent, and respond to screwworm before it spreads. New Mexico is on the frontlines of this threat, and this bill is one of the solutions to protect our herds and the communities that depend on them.""

Here’s what endorsing organizations have to say about the bill:

“I strongly support this important legislation to enhance our state’s preparedness and response to the New World screwworm. By investing in the training of Extension professionals, strengthening producer outreach, and equipping our local offices to serve as trusted resources, this bill ensures that New Mexicans have timely access to science-based information and assistance,” said Jon Boren, the Associate Dean and Director at New Mexico State University’s College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. “This proactive approach will help protect animal health, safeguard our agricultural economy, and strengthen the resilience of communities across New Mexico. We appreciate this commitment to prevention, education, and rapid response.”

“Extension agents and their staff are among the most trusted agricultural professionals in many communities. They know our producers, understand local conditions, and can play a critical role in educating the public and helping detect New World screwworm in our livestock,” said Tom Paterson, President of the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association. “Congressman Vasquez is proposing a practical, common-sense approach that strengthens our frontline defenses against a devastating livestock pest. New Mexico Cattle Growers strongly supports this legislation and appreciates his leadership on this issue.”

“Rocky Mountain Farmers Union believes that expanding access to technical assistance for producers is a critical investment in the long-term health and resilience of the U.S. livestock industry,” said Chad Franke, President of Rocky Mountain Farmers Union. “Enhanced support helps safeguard our nation's cattle herd, strengthen rural economies, and provide producers with tools to help address emerging challenges. This is especially urgent as threats such as New World Screwworm continue to grow and the U.S. cattle herd is at a 75-year low.”

“Eradicating New World screwworm half a century ago required a full-court press, leveraging partnerships at the federal, state, and local levels. Eradicating the current outbreak in New Mexico and Texas will require the same level of investment. Mobilizing Cooperative Extension agents in the fight against this pest is a practical use of existing expertise and personnel on the ground,” said the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. “We appreciate Congressman Vasquez’s focus on this urgent issue facing New Mexico ranchers.”

“Cooperative Extension Specialists play a significant role in research and technical assistance for many rural communities across the West. Congressman Vasquez’s support for utilizing their capacity and expertise to support livestock producers, federal lands grazing permittees, wildlife partners, and state and federal partners will allow the kind of close coordination that will be necessary to eradicate New World screwworm,"" said Kaitlynn Glover, Executive Director of the Public Lands Council.

Rep. Vasquez has long been an ardent supporter of New Mexico’s ranchers and cattle growers. Some of his recent work to support them includes:

Last year, he sounded the alarm on NWS by calling on the USDA to take immediate steps to protect ranchers while balancing the interests of New Mexico’s small businesses.

He was also integral in securing the necessary funding to build a sterile fly production and dispersal facility through the STOP Screwworms Act, legislation that required the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a New World Screwworm fly rearing facility to combat the spread of Screwworms.

On March 3, 2026, Rep. Vasquez secured unanimous, bipartisan support in the House Agriculture Committee for his Farm Bill amendment condemning the Administration’s push to prioritize Argentinian beef imports at the expense of our American cattle ranchers. The amendment ultimately passed out of the House in the Farm Bill.

In 2024, Vasquez adamantly opposed the Biden administration’s push to import beef from Paraguay. No matter the political party, Rep. Vasquez is fully committed to fighting for American ranchers.

“Rep. Vasquez, you are a hero for eliminating red tape. We appreciate what you did with the Farm Bill provisions. We appreciate your vote and support of the Farm Bill to remove red tape,” said Dr. Tom Paterson, President of the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association, during today’s briefing.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-senator-heinrich-introduce-bill-boost-college-success,"Rep. Stansbury, Senator Heinrich Introduce Bill to Boost College Success",2026-06-16,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (D-NM) and U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM) introduced the Postsecondary Student Success Act, legislation to authorize dedicated federal funding for evidence-based programs that help students stay enrolled in college, complete their degrees, and prepare for successful careers.

The Postsecondary Student Success Act would formally authorize the Postsecondary Student Success Grant (PSSG) program, which is a highly successful initiative that has consistently delivered, but never been formally authorized in law. By enshrining the program in law, the legislation would provide long-term support for colleges and universities to implement proven strategies that improve student retention, persistence, and graduation rates.

""Too many students leave college before finishing because they face academic, financial, and personal challenges without support,"" said Rep. Melanie Stansbury. “The Postsecondary Student Success Act will help make sure students who are veterans, first-generation graduates, low-income, historically underrepresented, and students with disabilities get the support and services they need to achieve their goals and finish their degrees. This bill will help students realize their dreams!”

“Getting students to college is only part of the equation — we also need to make sure they have the tools and support to finish,” said Senator Martin Heinrich. “That’s why I helped fund the Postsecondary Student Success Grant Program and it’s why I am working to authorize it through our legislation, to invest in proven strategies that keep students on track, improve graduation rates, and expand opportunities for New Mexicans.”

The Postsecondary Student Success Act will remove barriers that stand in the way of students’ academic success by permanently authorizing the Postsecondary Student Success Grant program.

The bill authorizes funding to colleges and universities for evidence-based retention programs, such as:

Faculty and peer mentoring and counseling;

Academic advising and real-time student support;

Tutoring and academic enrichment services;

Re-enrollment and transfer student support programs;

Emergency financial assistance;

Career coaching and workforce preparation;

Work-based learning opportunities and industry partnerships; and

Recruitment and retention of faculty and instructional staff.

The legislation prioritizes the use of evidence-based practices through a three-tier framework and reserves a portion of funding for projects implementing interventions with the strongest demonstrated impact on student success. The bill also requires independent evaluations to identify effective strategies and ensure taxpayer dollars are invested in programs that improve retention and completion rates.

This bill is endorsed by EdTrust, Third Way, The Institute for College Access & Success (TICAS), Complete College America (CCA), The Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities (APLU), New America, and Institute for Higher Education Policy.

View the bill text here.

Statements of Support:

“EdTrust applauds the Postsecondary Student Success Act, introduced by Rep. Stansbury and Sen. Heinrich, and expresses our unqualified support for the bill. The legislation would codify and improve the current Postsecondary Student Success Grant program and demonstrates continued support for evidenced-based student success programs. This program has been funded for five consecutive years and helps students stay enrolled in school and graduate, while being particularly impactful for students of color and students from low-income backgrounds. We urge Congress and the president to enact this bill in the coming months,” said EdTtrust.

“Completing college remains one of the most reliable pathways to economic opportunity, but too many students don't make it across the finish line to a degree. Third Way applauds Senator Heinrich and Representative Stansbury for reintroducing the Postsecondary Student Success Act, which will empower colleges to scale proven practices that help students persist and graduate. This investment in our nation's students and their goals will lead to higher completion rates, better workforce outcomes, and a stronger return on investment in higher education. We urge Congress to advance this legislation and provide lasting support for the Postsecondary Student Success Grant program,” said Third Way.

“TICAS applauds the reintroduction of the Postsecondary Student Success Act. Too many students leave college without a credential because they lack access to the necessary supports that help them persist and complete. By authorizing the Postsecondary Student Success Grants program, this legislation would help colleges and universities expand evidence-based strategies that improve retention, transfer, persistence, and completion, particularly for students who face the greatest barriers to success. Congress should advance this bipartisan approach to supporting students and improving economic mobility,” said Valerie Crespín-Trujillo, Senior Director at College Completion & Basic Needs Policy, The Institute for College Access & Success (TICAS).

“Earning a college degree is life-changing for millions of students each year, but too many students who enroll in college don’t reach the finish line with a degree in hand,” said Association of Public and Land-grant Universities President Waded Cruzado. “We thank House and Senate sponsors of the Postsecondary Student Success Act for championing legislation that would help more institutions scale evidence-based practices that help students efficiently complete college, enter the workforce, and reap the benefits of a college education,” said the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities (APLU).

“Too many students still face barriers that prevent them from completing college and earning a credential of value. At a time of economic change and budget uncertainty, this legislation would give states and institutions the resources needed to sustain the hard-fought gains in college completion made over the past decade and scale evidence-based strategies that help more students persist and graduate. By investing in student success, Congress can help states strengthen workforce competitiveness, build talent pipelines in high-demand industries, and ensure more learners can achieve economic mobility through higher education,” said Yolanda Watson Spiva, President of Complete College America.

“New Mexico has long recognized that student success and credential attainment are critical to the future of our communities, workforce, and economy. The Postsecondary Student Success Act represents the kind of partnership between states and the federal government that will help institutions meet students where they are and ensure more students can complete a credential of value needed to compete or succeed in today's economy. This legislation would provide colleges with the sustained support needed to expand proven strategies that improve retention and graduation rates — especially for students balancing work, family responsibilities, financial pressures, and other barriers along the way,” said Dr. Barbara Damron, member of the CCA Board of Directors and University of New Mexico, College of Nursing, Professor Emeritus and Visiting Professor.

“New America applauds the introduction of the Postsecondary Student Success Act. Too many students start college but never finish. This bill meets that challenge head-on, equipping institutions with the resources to close completion gaps, particularly for underserved students, and insisting these dollars back practices proven to work,” said Wesley Whistle, Project Director for Student Success & Affordability at New America.

""IHEP is proud to once again endorse the Postsecondary Student Success Act and applauds Sen. Heinrich and Rep. Stansbury's steadfast commitment to helping students cross the degree-completion finish line. This legislation offers a clear, evidence-based path to ensure more colleges have the resources they need to support students from enrollment to graduation. Codifying the Postsecondary Student Success Grant program is exactly the kind of targeted, proven investment that will improve student outcomes and deliver real returns for students and communities alike. IHEP urges Congress to pass this bill without delay,” said Mamie Voight, President & CEO, Institute for Higher Education Policy.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-secures-federal-funding-albuquerque-water-security-project,Rep. Stansbury Secures Federal Funding for Albuquerque Water Security Project,2026-06-15,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) delivered $512,320 in federal funding for the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority’s Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) Project, to advance a major long-term investment in water security and drought resilience for central New Mexico.

The funding, awarded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), was secured through Rep. Stansbury’s Community Project Funding request in the Fiscal Year 2024 Consolidated Appropriations Act. The investment will support the design and construction of infrastructure needed to store surface water in the Albuquerque aquifer. The project will allow the Water Utility Authority to move stored water from Abiquiu Reservoir to underground storage in Albuquerque, where it can be recovered when needed to support the region’s long-term water supply.

“Water is life, and protecting New Mexico’s water future requires bold investments in resilient infrastructure,” said Rep. Stansbury. “This funding will help the Water Utility Authority advance an innovative aquifer storage and recovery project that strengthens drought preparedness, protects groundwater resources, and ensures families across Albuquerque have reliable access to clean water for generations to come.”

The Aquifer Storage and Recovery Project is a cornerstone of the Water Utility Authority’s 100-year water management strategy and is designed to improve the region’s ability to store water during wet years for use during times of drought or shortage.

About the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority

The Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority provides drinking water, wastewater, and reclaimed water services to more than 700,000 customers throughout the greater Albuquerque metropolitan area.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-marks-14th-anniversary-daca-reaffirms-commitment-protecting,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Marks 14th Anniversary of DACA, Reaffirms Commitment to Protecting Dreamers",2026-06-15,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) marked the 14th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program by reaffirming his commitment to protecting Dreamers and pushing for a permanent pathway to citizenship.

“New Mexico is home to more than 4,000 DACA recipients who contribute millions in state and local taxes, support local businesses, and help power our state's workforce. These folks are our neighbors, coworkers, business owners, and community leaders,” said Vasquez. “Most came to the United States through no choice of their own, and for 14 years they have worked hard, played by the rules, and contributed to the communities they call home. They deserve certainty and a pathway to citizenship — not fear, legal limbo, forced lapses in work authorizations and healthcare coverage, and the threat of deportation.”

Last month, Vasquez pressed U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to address growing delays in DACA renewal processing. DACA renewal wait times have increased nearly 400 percent since 2025, leaving recipients who filed on time and followed all requirements at risk of losing work authorization and other protections.

“My office has seen a surge in requests from DACA recipients who did everything right but are now facing uncertainty because of government processing delays,” Vasquez said. ""USCIS must act immediately to reduce these backlogs and ensure families aren't punished for the Administration’s bureaucratic failures.”

As legal protections for Dreamers face growing challenges, Vasquez has also continued to advocate for DACA recipients in Congress. He is a cosponsor of the American Dream and Promise Act, legislation that would provide Dreamers with a pathway to citizenship, and he recently joined a bicameral effort urging the Department of Justice to preserve protections for DACA recipients in immigration proceedings.

Vasquez pledges to continue fighting for commonsense immigration reforms that strengthen the economy, support American families, and provide Dreamers with the certainty they deserve.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-demands-answers-after-national-park-fees-diverted-park-maintenance,Rep. Vasquez Demands Answers After National Park Fees Diverted from Park Maintenance to Pay for Vanity Projects,2026-06-12,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 12, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum raising concerns that approximately $90 million in National Park Service entrance fee revenues have been redirected from park maintenance and repairs to fund cosmetic “beautification” projects in Washington, D.C. The Congressman noted repairs and maintenance are being deprioritized at places like Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands National Park to pay for wasteful, ornamental projects in the nation’s capital, such as covering decorative structures in gold.

“The National Park System currently faces billions of dollars in deferred maintenance needs. This irresponsible use of these funds represents a troubling departure from the purpose for which these funds are collected,” said the members in the letter. “Americans … expect those dollars to be reinvested in the places they visit, supporting trail repairs, campground improvements, visitor facilities, historic preservation, road maintenance, and the stewardship of some of our nation's most treasured landscapes. Visitors to places like Carlsbad Caverns, Yellowstone, and the Grand Canyon do not benefit from covering statues in gold leaf, spray painting a pool on the National Mall, or making bloated investments in ornamental fountains across Washington, D.C. with no-bid contracts.”

Seven members of Congress joined Rep. Vasquez’s letter, which you can read in full here.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-repvasquez-introduces-bipartisan-bill-protect-public-lands-being-sold,ICYMI: Rep.Vasquez Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Protect Public Lands from Being Sold Off in Backdoor Deals,2026-06-11,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the bipartisan Public Lands Integrity Act, a commonsense bill to protect America's public lands from being sold off to the highest bidder through the budget reconciliation process.

“Treating public lands as another item on a balance sheet goes against the will of the people, and Americans have made it clear that our public lands are not for sale,” said Vasquez.

Learn More: NM U.S. Rep. Vasquez introduces bill to prevent ‘last-minute, backdoor deals’ to sell public lands

The Public Lands Integrity Act is endorsed by various environmental groups including the American Rivers, American Whitewater, Alaska Wilderness League, America Outdoors Association, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, The Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks, Conservation Lands Foundation, The Conservation Alliance, Grand Canyon Trust, League of Conservation Voters, National Wildlife Federation, New Mexico Wild, The Nature Conservancy, Nuestra Tierra Conservation Project, Outdoor Alliance, Outdoor Industry Association, Protect Our Winters, Sierra Club, Southern Ute Indian Tribe, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Trout Unlimited, Trust for Public Lands, Vet Voice Foundation, and The Wilderness Society. It is also cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ), Joe Neguse (D-CO), Dina Titus (D-NV), and Ryan Zinke (R-MT). The bill’s companion in the Senate is sponsored by U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO).

This bill builds on the success of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, which Rep. Vasquez co-founded last May and of which all four sponsors are members. Last summer, bipartisan Public Lands Caucus members helped successfully defeat attempts to sell off millions of acres of public land under the Republican tax law. This bill would ensure that the reconciliation process could not be weaponized to carry out public lands sales in the future.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-introduces-careworker-visa-act-address-childcare-and,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Introduces Careworker Visa Act to Address Childcare and Eldercare Worker Shortage, Bring Down Costs",2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 9, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the Careworker Visa Act to address the nation's growing shortage of childcare providers, eldercare workers, and in-home caregivers and bring down care costs by creating a new legal visa pathway for qualified careworkers.

This legislation recognizes a simple reality: America needs more caregivers to bring down rising costs, and our immigration system should reflect that.

As the American population ages, there will be a projected 4.6 million unfilled caregiving jobs by 2032.

Nationwide, the cost of childcare has spiked by about 8% since 2024, while the cost of in-home eldercare has risen three times faster than inflation, with prices jumping about 10% in 2025.

The Administration’s immigration crackdown is only making matters worse.

New Mexico has an especially pronounced need for additional careworkers:

In 2025, New Mexico became the first state in the country to offer universal childcare, but as of May 2026, the state still faced significant caregiver labor shortages, leaving 15,000 New Mexican children unable to receive the free childcare their families were promised.

New Mexico’s population is rapidly aging. By 2031, New Mexico is projected to be the state with the fourth-highest percentage of residents over 65 years old.

The Careworker Visa Act creates a new W visa category for qualified careworkers, including childcare providers, eldercare workers, and in-home caregivers for individuals with disabilities. In addition to allowing those from other countries to apply for a W visa, this bill also allows individuals to apply for a work visa if they have been in the U.S. since 2024, pass a background check, and pay a $500 fee and all taxes — providing those who seek to work in this critical industry a path out of the shadows.

The program is capped at 100,000 visas annually and requires participating employers to pay prevailing wages and comply with federal labor protections to ensure that U.S. wages are not impacted. Successful applicants may renew their visas after three years or pursue lawful permanent residency after meeting program requirements.

“American families are paying more than ever for childcare and eldercare, employers can't find enough qualified caregivers, and the President’s mass deportation campaign is only making matters worse,” said Rep. Vasquez. “This bill will help fill the critical workforce shortages that are holding back our economy, bring down care costs for American families, and empower careworkers who are eager to follow the rules and work here legally. Immigrant careworkers make up a huge share of the caregiving industry and play an indispensable role in caring for our loved ones.”

Rep. Vasquez’s Careworker Visa Act is cosponsored by Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) endorsed by FWD.us, the National Domestic Workers Alliance, Caregiver Action Network, Family Caregiver Alliance, and PHI.

“Finding the right person to care for your kids or aging parents is a deeply personal task, and for millions of Americans, the careworker keeping their family afloat is an immigrant. These families deserve stability in their care, which is why careworkers need secure pathways to legal citizenship,” said Rep. Houlahan. “The Careworker Visa Act creates that pathway, making sure our kids, elders, and people with disabilities can keep getting the support they need from dedicated, hardworking caregivers.”

“We commend Congressman Vazquez for his leadership in innovative, critical ways to build a modern, humane, and orderly immigration system that fits the needs of American families and our economy,” said Todd Schulte, President of FWD.us. “For many Americans, the increasing challenges of finding caregivers have been made even worse by the current efforts to restrict legal immigration avenues and other attacks on immigrants. That is why we're so appreciative of this effort to build a caregiver visa in such a thoughtful, common sense manner.”

“All of us will need care at some point in our lives, and immigrants make up one-third of America’s care workforce. But right now, as our population ages and the need for care continues to grow, the domestic and care workers who do so much for our kids, parents, and loved ones with disabilities are living in fear in the communities they call home,” said Ai-jen Poo, President of the National Domestic Workers Alliance. “The Careworker Visa Act reflects the simple reality that in our country, the future of care and the future of immigration are intertwined. This legislation is an important step toward ensuring families have access to qualified, affordable care workers as we build toward more robust care policies, including a pathway to citizenship for immigrant care workers.”

“If we don’t act, the consequences are clear: more stress on family caregivers — including caregiving youth — and more working adults forced to cut hours or leave their jobs altogether. We already don’t have enough care workers to meet today’s demand, and that gap is growing. This bill is a pragmatic step toward creating a system that supports both care workers and the families who depend on them,” said Caregiver Action Network CEO Marvell Adams Jr. “The cost of inaction is rising every day — family caregivers are under increasing strain, including young people taking on caregiving roles, and too many working caregivers are being pushed out of the workforce. The care worker shortage is real and growing. This bill is a practical step toward building a system that better supports care workers and family caregivers alike. Without the actions of this bill, families pay the price—more stress, more lost wages, and fewer care options. This bill is a pragmatic step toward building a system that supports care workers and the millions of families who rely on them.”

“69% of the family caregivers that FCA and other California Caregiver Resource Centers support have no paid help, even though 41% are providing care for someone who can never be left alone, and 26% have had to make employment changes in the past year due to caregiving responsibilities,” said Jenna Shankman, Senior Policy Analyst, Family Caregiver Alliance. “These pauses from work have a ripple effect on the caregiver’s own financial security and retirement. With the current shortage of people in this important field, it can be extremely challenging to find qualified careworkers to support older adults and people with disabilities, and with the shift in demographics towards more older adults, this can only be expected to get worse.”

“The need for care is growing in every community across the country, yet too many older adults and people with disabilities struggle to find the support they need, while the workers who provide that care — more than a quarter of whom are immigrants — have too often been left without adequate wages or basic workplace protections,” said Jodi M. Sturgeon, President & CEO of PHI. “The Careworker Visa Act creates a pathway into the direct care workforce while strengthening wage standards, protecting workers against exploitation and retaliation, and giving them a voice when conditions fall short. It's the fair, accountable approach PHI has long championed.”

Under the Careworker Visa Act, careworker and employer eligibility is as follows:

A “careworker” as an individual whose primary duties include providing childcare, eldercare, or in-home or community-level support for individuals with disabilities. It does not apply to institutional health care employers or residential care institutions with 25 or more employees.

Careworkers must have a qualifying job offer, be admissible to the U.S. or qualify for a waiver, provide proof of paying all taxes and a $500 fee, and pass a background check.

There are two legal pathways under the newly-created W visa:

Admissability: Individuals without current immigration status may apply.

Change of Status: Individuals present in the U.S. since January 1, 2024 without lawful status or under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program may be eligible for change of status and work permit if they meet the above requirements.

After three years on the W Visa, individuals may apply for legal permanent residency or renew the visa for additional 3-year increments.

Portability: Employees who leave their employers have a grace period of 90 days to find a new eligible employer.

A “covered employer” includes individuals or families employing careworkers in private residences or small caregiving businesses with fewer than 25 employees.

The bill requires the Department of Labor to certify the need for foreign workers in the U.S., and the Secretary of Homeland Security must provide an annual report to Congress regarding program implementation. Read the full bill text here.

The Careworker Visa Act is the latest example of Rep. Vasquez's longstanding commitment to advancing commonsense immigration solutions. He is a leader of the New American Immigration Plan, a commonsense plan to secure our borders, boost the U.S. economy, and expand legal pathways in a humane, cost-effective way.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-opposes-70-billion-blank-check-ice-no-guardrails-demands-answers,"Rep. Vasquez Opposes $70 Billion Blank Check for ICE with No Guardrails, Demands Answers and Reform",2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 9, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) remained firm in his calls for reform and accountability at ICE, rejecting MAGA extremists’ latest request for another $70 billion blank check for ICE through the budget reconciliation process.

“Last summer, ICE got a $75 billion blank check with no spending guardrails, and we all saw how those taxpayer funds were used — to terrorize folks without accountability, infringe on civil rights across the country, and murder American citizens in the streets,” said Vasquez. “I have visited ICE detention centers across my district and seen firsthand how masked agents are using violent tactics to fill these facilities with detainees, the vast majority of whom have no criminal record. This does nothing to make our country safer, is an abuse of taxpayer funds, and goes against our American values. I cannot in good conscience vote to grant the agency another $70 billion blank check without guardrails, oversight, and reforms.”

Rep. Vasquez also reiterated his demand that ICE answer questions he submitted after his Congressional Oversight visit at Camp East Montana on April 6.

During the Congressman’s visit to the ICE detention facility on April 6, ICE refused to answer many of his questions, and detainees reported limited access to health care (including the withholding of medications), insufficient food containing little to no protein, a lack of access to personal care products (like shampoo), forced sleep deprivation, poor sanitation, and verbal abuse from facility guards.

Following the visit, on April 9, Rep. Vasquez sent a list of Congressional Oversight questions (including the questions below, among others) to ICE’s Office of Congressional Relations for a response. Despite repeated follow up by the Congressman’s staff on April 21 and May 18, ICE has still failed to provide the answers New Mexicans deserve, despite two months having passed since the visit took place. This lack of a response is particularly concerning after reports emerged on June 4 that ICE is taking internal steps to narrow its reporting requirements for detainee deaths and questions remain about a possible fourth unreported detainee death that occurred at Camp East Montana in March 2026. Additionally, on June 9, the Government Accountability Office published a new report detailing serious issues at Camp East Montana, including the loss or destruction of evidence tied to a homicide at the facility and the waste of millions of dollars of taxpayer funds.

“As a member of Congress, it’s my duty to conduct Congressional Oversight visits and get my constituents the answers they deserve,” said Vasquez. “It is unacceptable that two months after my oversight visit, ICE has still failed to answer my questions, and this is yet another example of why we desperately need more ICE oversight and accountability. I’m calling on Secretary Mullin to provide basic answers to members of Congress.”

Among Rep. Vasquez’s questions that ICE has refused to answer are the following:

Can you confirm that no fourth death happened at the facility on or around March 23 in the E unit? Can you confirm that no detainee was transferred to the hospital in critical condition on or around March 23 from the E unit?

On April 6, 2026, what percent of detained individuals at Camp East Montana had criminal records (not including any civil immigration violations)?

Can you detail the number of medical staff hired under the previous and under the new contract and include job title?

When the Congressman’s staff asked about use of force policies at Camp East Montana, ICE officials referred us to ICE’s use of force policy. Can you please provide this policy?

Can you please provide a description as to why the autopsy following the third death in custody at Camp East Montana was handled by the Department of Defense, rather than county officials?

What mechanisms are in place to ensure that detainees are being fed, receiving timely medical attention and have dignified access to bathing and hygiene?

Why has ICE not opened a commissary so detainees’ families can purchase them more food?

What is the longest stay of a detainee at this facility? How many previous detention facilities had this detainee been in prior to Camp East Montana?

During the visit it was shared that all the grievances submitted by detainees are kept. The Congressman asked for a copy of all the grievance forms that have been submitted at Camp East Montana. Can you provide these grievance forms?

In addition to demanding answers to these oversight questions, Rep. Vasquez has continued to call for commonsense reforms to ICE, including:

Requiring all DHS agents to remove masks and wear body cameras to ensure transparency, identification, and accountability;

Mandating independent investigations into DHS violations of use of force;

Ending reckless mass raids that unlawfully detain, endanger, and kill American citizens; and

Guaranteeing safe, humane conditions in detention, including medical care, legal access, and basic human dignity

This vote and push for answers builds on Rep. Vasquez’s longstanding record of working to build an immigration system that keeps our country safe while living up to our American values:

On April 29, Rep. Vasquez stood firm in his call for reforms at the Department of Homeland Security and voted against a resolution that would set the stage for the agency to receive a $70 billion blank check for violent immigration enforcement activities without offsets, guardrails, or reforms.

In the wake of an ICE agent’s killing of Renee Nicole Good — an American citizen and young mother of three — the Congressmanled the call for Secretary Noem’s impeachment, citing her mismanagement of ICE, failure to support communities like Ruidoso following natural disasters, and improper use of taxpayer funds. He was one of the first 20 Democratic lawmakers to do so.

The Congressman introduced the Humane Accountability Act, a bill that calls for greater transparency and accountability around immigrant detention and removals by requiring detailed reporting on assaults, deaths, complaints, and other treatment of detainees to Congress.

Rep. Vasquez voted against the Republican tax law, which granted DHS a $150 billion blank check to pay for mass detentions and deportations, including of American citizens.

Following the passage of the Republican tax law, Rep. Vasquez led a group of lawmakers from border communities in demanding transparency and accountability around how DHS will spend more than $150 billion in newly allocated taxpayer dollars. The letter to DHS also outlined detailed spending recommendations to ensure DHS allocates funds in a manner that provides American taxpayers a return on their investment by prioritizing public safety, efficiency, and American values.

The Congressman is leading both parties forward with theNew American Immigration Plan, a commonsense immigration plan to secure our borders, boost the U.S. economy, and expand legal pathways — all while living up to our American values.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-supports-tribal-communities-and-strengthening-public-safety,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Supports Tribal Communities and Strengthening Public Safety with the BADGES Act,2026-06-08,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 8, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) cosponsored the Bridging Agency Data Gaps & Ensuring Safety for Native Communities (BADGES) Act to support Tribal Law enforcement and strengthen public safety in Indian Country. In the United States there are an estimated 4,200 missing and murdered Indigenous People cases that have gone unsolved. In response, the bill improves coordination in missing persons investigations and support for the recruitment and retention of Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Law Enforcement Officers.

Specifically, this bill would strengthen coordination between Tribal Law Enforcement and the BIA through initiatives such as:

Increasing Tribal access to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System by creating Tribal facilitators to improve coordination, outreach, training, and reporting across jurisdictions.

Requiring a comprehensive report on Tribal law enforcement needs.

Allowing the BIA to conduct its own background checks for law enforcement applicants to speed up hiring and improve officer recruitment.

Establishing a grant program to help states, Tribes, and Tribal organizations coordinate investigations into missing and murdered persons and sexual assault cases.

Ensuring BIA officers and Tribal police have access to culturally appropriate mental health and wellness programs.

“Stronger collaboration between the BIA and Tribal Law enforcement is long overdue, and I am proud to support this bill,” said Vasquez. “The BADGES Act brings us one step closer to ensuring justice is served for Tribal communities.”

This comes after Rep. Vasquez’s recent meeting with Ramah Navajo Police Chief Rory Atcitty, during which they discussed strengthening federal support for Tribal law enforcement.

Rep.Vasquez is an avid supporter of bolstering public safety for Tribal Communities, including advanced training and resources for Tribal law enforcement services. His previous work includes:

Leading the Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act to enhance public safety within Tribal communities by removing the need for tribes to obtain Special Law Enforcement Commissions, which are currently burdensome and delay enforcement authority.

Voted in favor of the FY26 Commerce, Justice, Science (CJS) appropriations package which provided $9 billion in funding for state and local law enforcement, and supporting crime victims to include tribal police and tribal communities.

Cosponsoring the Indian Programs Advance Appropriations Act, which would authorize federal funding for critical tribal programs, including at the Bureau of Indian Affairs, one year in advance and ensure that the federal government can better meet its trust and treaty responsibilities to Native Americans.

###",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-votes-advance-bipartisan-national-defense-bill-supports,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Votes to Advance Bipartisan National Defense Bill, Supports Ending War in Iran",2026-06-05,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"June 5, 2026

Vasquez supports troop pay increase, secures $2.1 billion for New Mexico, and votes for oversight reform on DoD spending

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 4, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) — a member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) — voted in support of the bipartisan Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (FY27 NDAA), which included multiple of his amendments to support New Mexico. The NDAA is the annual, flagship bill that guides U.S. defense priorities and spending for the year.

The FY27 NDAA includes significant investments in quality of life for active-duty servicemembers and their families, including $2 billion to improve barracks and a 3.6% pay raise for troops. The bill also includes the creation of a new Joint Task Force Audit, which would provide more rigorous spending oversight to ensure taxpayer dollars used by DoD are spent ethically and efficiently.

“Today, I voted to support the active servicemen and women of the U.S. military, their families, and New Mexico’s military communities and the local economies that revolve around them. This bill brings $2.1 billion in total investment to our state, and I’m proud to continue supporting our military bases, research facilities, and pay raises for our brave servicemen and women,” said Vasquez.

“While I continue to support strengthening our nation’s national defense, I voted in committee to strongly oppose the President’s illegal war with Iran and to strip Section 224 from the bill which unnecessarily ties the U.S. to Israel,” added Vasquez. “We cannot reward a nation responsible for mass civilian casualties in Gaza and constant violent aggression in the West Bank and Lebanon. The illegal war in Iran, Israeli settler violence, and atrocities in Gaza must stop. I will continue to support our military and work to improve this bill as it heads to the full House.”

Ten of Vasquez’s amendments were included in the NDAA, including:

Report requirement on El Paso Airport closure — this amendment requires the Department of Defense to provide a report on its coordination process with DHS and FAA that caused the chaotic closure of the El Paso Airport in February and how such incidents can be prevented in the future

Update on status of directed energy testing — this amendment requires the DoD to share information and data on the safety, feasibility, capabilities of directed energy drones being used or tested domestically by DoD to keep our country safe while preventing incidents like the El Paso Airport closure from happening again

Report on intergovernmental PFAS cleanup efforts – this amendment directs the DoD to deliver a report on how the DoD is using intergovernmental service agreements to partner with state government agencies to conduct PFAS cleanup near military installations like Cannon Air Force Base

Demand for publicly-accessible digital maps of National Defense Areas (NDA) — this amendment encourages the DoD to provide publicly-accessible data to support digitizing maps of National Defense Area boundaries along the U.S.-Mexico border, updating them in real time and providing notice of changes so members of the public have transparency regarding NDA boundaries and hunters, hikers, and public land users know where these areas are located

Support for missile range and testing facilities modernization — this amendment asks the DoD to modernize Missile Range and Testing Facilities, including White Sands Missile Range

Report on intergovernmental housing agreements – this amendment urges the DoD to explore the use of intergovernmental housing agreements with state governments to address housing shortages for servicemembers in military communities such as Alamogordo

Measure to curb China’s influence in Latin America and the Caribbean — this amendment presses the DoD to support partnerships with foreign militaries in Latin America and the Caribbean to quell China’s growing influence in the region

Briefing on weapon system preparedness for the future — this amendment requests a briefing for Congress on the status of military weapon system survivability under multiple, layered harsh battlefield conditions (including nuclear blasts, thermal radiation, chemical and biological contamination and more).

Update from Air Force on digital airworthiness certifications – this amendment requires the Air Force to examine the feasibility of digitally certifying unmanned aircraft such as MQ-9 drones at Holloman Air Force Base to determine payload capacity and safety standards

In addition to these amendments, Vasquez secured an additional 2.1 billion for New Mexico and other provisions:

Cannon Air Force Base: $10 million for upgrades to troop dormitories

Kirtland Air Force Base: $250 million for the Space Force Operational Facility

Los Alamos National Laboratory: Nearly $1.5 billion for plutonium modernization projects, $88.7 million to construct an additional project support building, and nearly $294 million for environmental cleanup

Sandia National Laboratory: Over $1 million for environmental cleanup

New Mexico National Guard: $11 million for vehicle maintenance facilities at the New Mexico National Guard’s Rio Rancho training site

Other key provisions in the NDAA include:

Infrastructure: $25 billion for military construction projects, including the $2 billion for new construction of quality-of-life infrastructure such as barracks, dormitories, and government-owned family housing. Rep. Vasquez continues to actively press Secretary Hegseth to ensure these investments are making their way back to New Mexico to improve quality of life for servicemembers and their families and update outdated, at-capacity barracks.

Education & Childcare: $50 million to assist local educational agencies with military-dependent students, as well as a measure that establishes a Student Internship Program to improve the pipeline of military childcare providers.

Healthcare: Installs protections for on-base healthcare for retirees at Military Medical Treatment Facilities, including at Cannon AFB, and launches a program to improve obstetrical and gynecological care for TRICARE beneficiaries.

Workforce: Supercharges recruitment efforts for civilian talent in critical technologies such as AI, cybersecurity, and biotechnology.

Reaffirming Key Alliances with Strategic Partners in Europe: Protects longstanding strategic alliances with European partners by securing $210 for EUCOM security cooperation (with $175 million assured for the Baltic region), extending limitations on EUCOM force posture reductions, and requiring prepositioned equipment in Europe to remain in place. This comes amidst the Administration’s efforts to roll back strategic military alliances in Europe.

Rep. Vasquez supported the following amendments to end the war in Iran and to oppose the expansion of U.S.-Israeli military partnerships:

Cosponsored and voted for Amendment 6626:Expressing a sense of disapproval for the war in Iran and calling for an end to this senseless conflict.

Voted for Amendment 6897: Stripping Section 224 of the NDAA which would strengthen U.S.-Israeli military cooperation on the American taxpayers’ dime

The bill passed 44 to 12, with Vasquez joining 11 Democrats in support of passage. The bill now moves to consideration by the whole House.

###",1,2026-06-23T06:27:52Z,2026-06-23T06:29:20Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-introduces-bipartisan-public-lands-integrity-act-prevent,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Introduces the Bipartisan Public Lands Integrity Act to Prevent Backdoor Public Land Sell Offs,2026-06-05,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 5, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the bipartisan Public Lands Integrity Act, alongside Representatives Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ), Joe Neguse (D-CO), and Dina Titus (D-NV). The legislation would ensure that America's public lands cannot be sold off to the highest bidder through the budget reconciliation process, which allows certain measures to pass the Senate by a simple majority vote.

The Public Lands Integrity Act would amend a section of the Congressional Budget Act — commonly known as the Byrd Rule — to clarify that any provision resulting in the sale, transfer, or disposal of federal public lands is considered extraneous and outside the scope of budget reconciliation. As a result, future proposals to sell public lands could not be rushed through Congress using expedited reconciliation procedures and would require 60 votes in the Senate.

This bill builds on the success of the bipartisan Public Lands Caucus, which Rep. Vasquez co-founded last May and of which all four sponsors are members. Last summer, bipartisan Public Lands Caucus members helped successfully defeat attempts to sell off millions of acres of public land under the Republican tax law. This bill would ensure that this couldn’t happen again.

“Public lands are America’s best idea, and they belong to all of us and must remain in the public trust,” said Rep. Vasquez. “Treating public lands as another item on a balance sheet goes against the will of the people, and Americans have made it clear that our public lands are not for sale. That’s why I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan, bicameral bill to ensure these lands are held in trust for future generations and won’t be used in the reconciliation process in last-minute, backdoor deals to sell them off.”

“Our public lands should never be subject to backroom deals or rushed budget negotiations. Selling or disposing of them through reconciliation is the wrong approach,” said Rep. Ciscomani. “That’s why I’m proud to co-lead the bipartisan Public Lands Integrity Act. Southern Arizona is home to some of the nation’s most beautiful and treasured public lands, including Saguaro National Park, Mount Lemmon, and Sabino Canyon. The Public Lands Integrity Act ensures decisions about our public lands are made openly, through regular order, and with full public input. This legislation protects these treasured spaces and helps ensure future generations can experience and enjoy the same natural beauty that makes Arizona and our country so special.”

“Our nation's public lands belong to the people and are held in trust for future generations. They don’t belong to political appointees or special interests, and I'm proud to partner with my colleagues to ensure that remains true,” said Rep. Neguse. “Last summer we fought off efforts to sell-off millions of acres across the Rocky Mountain West—and we must continue to fight to ensure the reconciliation process cannot be used as a vehicle to force the sale of these treasured spaces. Republican or Democrat—representing red, purple, or blue districts—one sentiment continues to ring true: our public lands are not for sale.”

“Our precious public lands should never be used as revenue raisers for partisan issues,” said Rep. Titus. “Last year, I spearheaded the effort to stop the proposed sale of 65,000 acres of land in Southern Nevada without our consent. Now I am joining Representatives Vasquez, Ciscomani, Neguse, and Zinke to introduce legislation that would prevent similar proposals from advancing in the future.”

“Public Lands belong to the public, period. There is a public, transparent process for disposal of land when it is in the public’s best interest and I have long opposed any attempts to circumvent that process,” said Rep. Zinke. “Any proposal involving the future of America’s public lands deserves full public debate, conducted in the light of day and with the highest level of scrutiny. This bill helps ensure that the public will always have a seat at the table when it comes to protecting our public lands.”

The Public Lands Integrity Act would not affect legitimate land exchanges, local conveyances, permitting reforms, grazing, timber management, energy development, or other public land management decisions. Instead, it ensures that any proposal to permanently sell or transfer federal public lands receives full congressional consideration and public scrutiny. The Public Lands Integrity Act keeps public lands in public hands and protects the communities, businesses, ranchers, hunters, anglers, Tribes, and families who depend on them.

This bill was introduced by Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO) in the Senate. The Public Lands Integrity Act is endorsed by American Rivers, American Whitewater, Alaska Wilderness League, America Outdoors Association, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, The Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks, Conservation Lands Foundation, The Conservation Alliance, Grand Canyon Trust, League of Conservation Voters, National Wildlife Federation, New Mexico Wild, The Nature Conservancy, Nuestra Tierra Conservation Project, Outdoor Alliance, Outdoor Industry Association, Protect Our Winters, Sierra Club, Southern Ute Indian Tribe, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Trout Unlimited, Trust for Public Lands, Vet Voice Foundation, and The Wilderness Society.

See quotes of support from local officials and endorsing organizations below.

“We at New Mexico Wild are grateful to Representatives Vasquez, Ciscomani, Neguse, and Titus for their leadership in the House to ensure that anti-public lands members of Congress can no longer attempt to use the budget reconciliation process to force the fly-by-night sale, disposal, or transfer of our — the American people’s — public lands out of public ownership,” Bjorn Fredrickson, Conservation Director at New Mexico Wild. “Our shared public lands are too important and too beloved by citizens of all political stripes to be sold off, and I suspect that any politician seeking to do so will think twice if they must be transparent, for fear of the wrath of their voters at the ballot box.”

“American Rivers welcomes the introduction of the Public Lands Integrity Act. Public lands are the backbone of our nation's freshwater resources, providing clean drinking water, fish habitat, and recreation access to millions of Americans. Protecting these landscapes from disposal during the reconciliation process ensures these resources are sustainably managed for now and for future generations,” said American Rivers.

“Public lands aren't a line item on a balance sheet. They're where we hunt, fish, camp, and make memories,” said Ryan ""Cal"" Callaghan, President & CEO at Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. “Thank you to Representatives Vasquez and Ciscomani for championing this bill and helping ensure any proposal to sell public lands is debated in the open, where the American people can have their say, rather than being pushed through the reconciliation process.”

Town of Mesilla, New Mexico Mayor Russell Hernandez said, “The public lands in the Mesilla Valley play a vital role in preserving our communities’ character, economy, and outdoor way of life. Transferring or selling these irreplaceable spaces would be devastating. We were proud to stand strongly in support of our public lands, and will fight to make sure they remain free and open to the public for generations to come. We recently passed a resolution showing our support for our public lands and are thrilled that our Representative, Gabe Vasquez is standing up for our public lands through the Public Lands Integrity Act.”

Las Cruces, New Mexico Council Member Becky Corran said, “Representative Vasquez knows how important public lands are to his constituents. We thank him, and Senator Heinrich, for sponsoring the Public Lands Integrity Act. Open spaces in Las Cruces, especially our Organ Mountains, serve as a bridge to our past and the backdrop for a future grounded in public lands. Families celebrate milestones at La Cueva, soak in yellow flowers along Baylor Canyon and hike contemplatively in the beauty of Soledad Canyon. Our public lands make us who we are, and we are committed to protecting them for future generations.”

“The Conservation Alliance represents businesses reliant on protected public lands. We support a transparent process for public land management that takes public input into account by providing opportunities for feedback from our business members, individuals, and communities,” said Rebecca Gillis, Vice President of Government Affairs and Advocacy. “We applaud Representatives Vasquez and Ciscomani’s bill that would ensure that decisions about the sale or transfer of public lands receive the full legislative consideration they warrant.”

“We applaud Reps. Vasquez, Ciscomani, Titus and Neguse for introducing the Public Lands Integrity Act because public lands should never be sold off by Congress as a means to offset other spending priorities,” said David Feinman, Vice President of Government Affairs for Conservation Lands Foundation. “This legislation would ensure that Congress cannot use an arcane loophole to circumvent the normal legislative process to dispose of public lands. We urge its swift passage.”

“In the West public lands power our outdoor economies, provide critical water and resources for agriculture, and give our residents unmatched opportunities to recreate and enjoy the peace and solitude that comes along with time spent in nature,” said Anna Peterson, Executive Director of The Mountain Pact. “But threats to sell off our public lands are putting our shared outdoor heritage in danger of being exploited for short-term gain. That’s why over 70 communities across the West have stood up and taken official action to condemn these reckless and irresponsible attacks, and to push back against those who want to auction off these irreplaceable and sacred landscapes to the highest bidder. We thank Representative Ciscomani and Vasquez for working to make sure our public lands remain right where they belong: in public hands.”

“America’s public lands provide enduring benefits for people and nature, supporting healthy communities, outdoor economies, and wildlife habitat,” said Tom Cors, Senior Director of Legislative Affairs at The Nature Conservancy. “This proposal helps ensure these lands — held in trust for all Americans — aren’t sold off through rushed budget maneuvers.”

“Our country’s public lands and waters belong to all Americans. The outdoor recreation community relies on public lands for paddling, climbing, mountain biking, hiking, and more. These activities make people’s lives richer and foster a connection to the natural world,” said Louis Geltman, Vice President for Policy and Government Relations at Outdoor Alliance. “Selling or transferring public lands must happen extremely judiciously, and never as a revenue raiser for a partisan budget reconciliation effort. We commend the effort of Representatives Vasquez and Ciscomani to ensure our public lands are treated with due care.”

“The Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) stands strong in support of the Public Lands Integrity Act, a critical protection for the 5.2 million Americans whose livelihoods depend on the outdoor recreation economy. The outdoor industry is a powerful growth engine, contributing $1.3 trillion in annual economic output—more than farming, mining, and utilities combined. The backbone of this economy is our federal public lands; in fact, one out of every five outdoor industry jobs directly depend on access to these shared spaces,” said Kent Ebersole, CEO, Outdoor Industry Association. “By applying the Byrd Rule to prevent the disposal of public lands through expedited budget processes, this bill ensures that the infrastructure supporting millions of quality jobs across the country cannot be dismantled without a transparent, public debate. We urge the Senate to pass this measure to provide the certainty our businesses and workers need to continue building a stronger outdoor economy that drives the American economy forward.”

“Protect Our Winters applauds the bipartisan effort to pass the Public Lands Integrity Act, and efforts to keep public land sell-offs out of the budget reconciliation process,” said Ben Gubits, VP Advocacy & Campaigns at Protect Our Winters. “Congress must never use fast-tracked Senate procedure to sell Americans’ public lands for short term profit, especially when those lands could be opened to fossil fuel extraction that threatens clean air, clean water, growing outdoor recreation economies, and a healthy planet. America’s public lands belong to the people, not special interests, and they must be protected for future generations.”

“America’s public lands belong to the public — not to political dealmaking. The Public Lands Integrity Act helps ensure that cherished public lands can’t be quietly sold off through budget maneuvers that sidestep public debate and accountability,"" said Athan Manuel, director of the Sierra Club's Lands Protection Program. “At a time when these places face growing pressure, Congress should be strengthening protections for our shared lands, not creating backdoor pathways to dispose of them. Sierra Club is proud to support Representative Vasquez’s leadership on this important legislation.”

""America's public lands are a cornerstone of our hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation traditions,” said Joel Webster, chief conservation officer at the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. “The bipartisan Public Lands Integrity Act supports the principle that decisions affecting America's public lands should be made transparently, with input from hunters, anglers, local communities, tribes, and other stakeholders.""

“America’s public lands are the backyard of the little guy, where families hike, float, camp, hunt, and fish for wild trout. Time and time again, Americans from all walks of life have stood up to oppose the sale of our public lands,” said Chris Wood, President and CEO of Trout Unlimited. “Trout Unlimited thanks the bipartisan coalition led by Representatives Gabe Vasquez and Juan Ciscomani for introducing the Public Lands Integrity Act and working together to safeguard public access, protect sensitive fish and wildlife habitat, and uphold the public trust for future generations.”

“America's public lands are among our nation's greatest conservation successes, providing habitat for wildlife, protecting treasured landscapes, and ensuring access to the outdoors for millions of people. From hunting and fishing opportunities cherished by sportsmen and women to hiking, camping, and other outdoor recreation, these lands support traditions, communities, and local economies across the country,” said Myke Bybee, Senior Director of Government Relations for Trust for Public Land. “The Public Lands Integrity Act helps ensure that decisions about the future of our public lands are made through a transparent public process—not rushed through as part of a budget package. We applaud Representatives Vasquez and Ciscomani for their leadership on this legislation and helping safeguard the public lands that belong to all Americans.”

“America’s public lands represent the best of our country. For veterans and military families, they offer a place to connect, heal, and recreate. Any attempt to sell off this shared public resource must allow for robust debate and input, not be pushed through in the dead of night,” said Janessa Goldbeck, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and CEO of Vet Voice Foundation. “We thank Representatives Vasquez, Ciscomani, Neguse, and Titus for leading efforts to close this loophole and block fast-tracked efforts to give up lands, waters, and forests that should remain protected for future generations.”

“Americans love public lands and the freedom they provide to explore—and at a time when we may disagree about a lot of other things, the overwhelming majority of us are on the same page about this,” said Jordan Schreiber, Government Relations Director at The Wilderness Society. “The sale of public land has no place in the budget reconciliation process. We applaud Rep. Vasquez’s leadership on behalf of current and future generations, and folks on both sides of the aisle, in drawing that line in the sand.”

“Public lands are a shared natural heritage and one of America's greatest assets,"" said Shaleas Harrison, Western Policy Manager for the Western Landowners Alliance. ""They are essential to meeting current and future natural resource needs. The federal reconciliation process is not the place for large tracts of public land sales or transfers. Limited sales and equitable voluntary exchanges in the public interest should be considered on a case by case basis.”

“The Grand Canyon Trust stands with Representative Vasquez in his effort to protect public lands from being sold off. 'Public lands belong in public hands' is not just a slogan, but a core principle that requires decisions about the future of our public lands be made transparently and inclusively,"" said Jerry Otero, Legislative and Policy Director, Grand Canyon Trust. ""We commend his leadership and urge both parties to see his legislation across the finish line.”

###",1,2026-06-25T06:30:03Z,2026-06-25T06:31:21Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-secures-win-fight-accountability-answers-dept-defense-el-paso,Rep. Vasquez Secures Win in Fight for Accountability & Answers from Dept. of Defense on El Paso Airport Closure,2026-06-05,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 4, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) — in his role as a member of the House Armed Services Committee — secured a critical, bipartisan win in his ongoing fight to get the accountability and answers New Mexicans deserve from the Department of Defense regarding the chaotic closure of the El Paso Airport in February 2026.

During committee markup, Rep. Vasquez introduced an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act requiring the Department of Defense to provide a report on its coordination process with DHS and FAA, an explanation as to what caused the chaotic closure of the El Paso Airport in February, and details on how such incidents can be prevented in the future.

He also introduced an amendment pushing the DoD to share information and data on the safety, feasibility, capabilities of directed energy drones the Department is using and testing domestically to keep our country safe while preventing incidents like the El Paso Airport closure from happening again. Both measures passed and will move forward for consideration by the full House of Representatives.

“On February 11, the Department of Defense and Federal Aviation Administration were responsible for a huge failure, and it left southern New Mexicans in a state of chaos and confusion. That is unacceptable,” said Vasquez. “I will keep fighting every step of the way to get the answers and accountability New Mexicans deserve and assurance that this will never happen again.”

On February 11, 2026, the FAA announced a 10-day closure of the El Paso Airport citing “special security concerns.” The restrictions were lifted by the FAA within hours of being issued after Congressional inquiry. All flights, including commercial, cargo, and general aviation, were initially grounded, causing chaos and confusion in the region as the FAA provided no advance notice to Congress, local leadership, or airport officials.

Today’s win builds on Rep. Vasquez’s ongoing work to get New Mexicans the answers they deserve regarding what caused the airport closure on February 11 and to ensure similar incidents do not occur again in the future:

On the morning of February 11, 2026, Rep. Vasquez provided constituents with updates on the status of the El Paso Airport closure, demanded transparency and answers from the DoD, and helped reopen the airport with Congressional oversight.

On February 12, 2026, Reps. Vasquez and Escobar, as well as Senators Heinrich and Luján, demanded a classified briefing on the airspace closure.

On March 17, 2026, Rep. Vasquez pressed Assistant Secretary Joseph Humire for answers as to where the communications failure occurred and what steps the DoD was taking to prevent similar chaotic, dangerous situations from occurring in the future.

Vasquez also asked Humire about the risks counter-drone laser systems being used by the DoD posed to civilians and secured a commitment for a briefing from DoD officials on the incident, which took place on April 28, 2026.

###",1,2026-06-25T06:30:03Z,2026-06-25T06:31:21Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-vasquez-takes-agriculture-stakeholders-questions-directly-usda-presses,"Rep. Vasquez Takes Agriculture Stakeholders’ Questions Directly to USDA, Presses Secretary Rollins on Red Tape, Delays, New World Screwworm, and SNAP Data",2026-06-04,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 4, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) pressed U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins on New World Screwworm (NWS) containment, payment and service delays caused by USDA staffing shortages, and SNAP cuts after hearing directly from New Mexico farmers, ranchers, and food bank leaders on these issues.

Yesterday, the first U.S. NWS case since 1966 was confirmed in south Texas, threatening New Mexico cattle herds and putting ranchers and consumers alike on edge. Rep. Vasquez hosted a meeting with agriculture stakeholders on Tuesday to receive suggestions on what they needed most from the USDA, and he pressed Rollins for answers and action today.

Rep. Vasquez founded his Agriculture Advisory Group in 2023 to ensure that constituents from across New Mexico’s diverse agriculture sector have a direct voice in his work on the House Agriculture Committee.

This morning. Rep. Vasquez asked the Secretary these questions, which he got directly from agriculture stakeholders in New Mexico:

From a variety of stakeholders: Can you explain what steps USDA is taking to maintain service levels for rural states like New Mexico while these [USDA] staffing and restructuring changes are underway?

From the New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau: My farmers can’t handle any more delays in receiving their Assistance for Specialty Crops Farmers (ASCF) program payments. When can New Mexico speciality crop producers expect their payments?

From Roadrunner Food Bank and Others: Can you please share what your data collection plans entail to track the ongoing impact of SNAP cuts under H.R. 1?

Vasquez secured a commitment from Secretary Rollins to work directly with New Mexico growers and producers to solve the challenges he raised on their behalf. If you are a grower or producer and are facing challenges with ASCF program payments or staffing shortages, please contact my office at (202) 225-2365.

WATCH THE HEARING CLIP HERE

Read an excerpt of the exchange below:

Rep. Vasquez: “I support specialty crop growers – I come from the land of green and red chile. And we're so proud to have the chile capital of the world in our district. But our partners at the New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau, the specialty crop growers, they're still waiting for the assistance for specialty crop farmers program funds to hit their bank accounts. And some have been waiting for over six months – they say they can't handle any more delays and it's putting their businesses at risk. When can they expect their payments?”

Rollins: “Is this the Bridge Assistance? Okay. So, so a quick update on that. We announced that, um, specifically we increased it more than 50% up to 1.6 billion. Yes. Applications are open. We'll be moving those out if the applications come in. We're moving that money out very, very quickly. So again, if any of your farmers have trouble, have them contact their FSA state director who will let me know and we'll start moving that out. But as long as they're filling out the paperwork online or in the office, we should be moving that out immediately.”

Rep. Vasquez is a strong advocate for New Mexico’s farmers and ranchers. In April, he secured a host of decisive victories for New Mexicans in the House Farm Bill, garnering Republican support for nine of his provisions to protect ranchers from the Administration’s push to import Argentinian beef, cut red tape for ranch improvements, and improve critical programs for Tribal communities and speciality crop growers.

Rep. Vasquez has also repeatedly fought to protect hardworking New Mexican families’ access to food assistance benefits:

He passed a commonsense bill that would allow the SNAP to cover hot rotisserie chicken purchases through the farm bill.

Vasquez is also a cosponsor of the bipartisan Hot Foods Act to modernize the SNAP program and expand food access by allowing individuals to purchase hot, ready-to-eat meals, such as rotisserie chickens, offering greater flexibility, nutritional value, and dignity to individuals and families at the grocery store.

Last year, Vasquez forcefully defended the SNAP program during a House Agriculture Committee hearing, warning that Republican efforts to slash $230 billion from the program would devastate rural communities across New Mexico and the country.

In early July 2025, Republicans chose to slash $180 billion from SNAP benefits under their new tax law – the biggest cut to food assistance in American history – in order to give massive tax breaks to billionaires. As a result, over 175,000 New Mexicans were put at risk of losing the ability to afford the groceries they need to feed themselves and their families. The majority of people receiving SNAP are children, seniors, and people with disabilities. Rep. Vasquez voted against the Republican tax law.

Following the cuts made to SNAP funding under the Republican tax law, Vasquez met with constituents across the district about their concerns over losing food assistance benefits. This included helping pack meals for seniors at Alejandro Ruiz Senior Center, which is funded by Southeast NM Community Action Corp (SNMCAC) in Carlsbad.

Since coming to Congress, Vasquez has stood up for food assistance throughout the ongoing farm bill negotiations.

Vasquez has also advocated for ranchers in their fight against NWS time and time again:

In April, he sent a letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins demanding answers on the Administration’s preparedness strategy for a New World Screwworm (NWS) outbreak as the warmer months approach.

On March 3, 2026, Rep. Vasquez secured unanimous, bipartisan support in the House Agriculture Committee for his Farm Bill amendment condemning the Administration’s push to prioritize Argentinian beef imports at the expense of our American cattle ranchers.

Last year, he sounded the alarm on NWS by calling on the USDA to take immediate steps to protect ranchers while balancing the interests of New Mexico’s small businesses.

He was also integral in securing the necessary funding to build a sterile fly facility through the STOP Screwworms Act, legislation that required the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a New World Screwworm fly rearing facility to combat the spread of Screwworms.

In 2024, Vasquez adamantly opposed the Biden administration’s push to import beef from Paraguay. No matter the political party, Rep. Vasquez is fully committed to fighting for American ranchers.

###",1,2026-06-19T06:50:32Z,2026-06-19T06:53:40Z
https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-stansbury-oversight-committee-members-report-exposing-disastrous-impact,"Rep. Stansbury, Oversight Committee Members Report Exposing Disastrous Impact of Trump Dismantling USAID",2026-06-04,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Melanie A. Stansbury,S001218,stansbury.house.gov,stansbury,https://stansbury.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Delivering on Government Efficiency (DOGE),Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and Congressman Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs, released a report documenting the catastrophic humanitarian, national security, and economic consequences of President Trump’s decision to eliminate the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) one year ago. The report coincides with the deadly and rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.

“The Trump Administration’s dismantling of USAID has had devastating consequences around the world. These reckless cuts have contributed to hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths, weakened our national security, and eliminated jobs across our communities. In New Mexico, we take care of one another. We know that when it comes to our global community’s health, our fates are intertwined. Turning our backs on the world doesn't make us safer or stronger—it weakens our economy, our national security, and our global leadership at home and abroad,” said Ranking Member Melanie Stansbury.

“By shuttering USAID, Donald Trump is causing hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths, harming our national security, and now we are facing a deadly, rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak he and Elon Musk helped cause. Documenting the harm they caused is the first step to accountability,” said Ranking Member Robert Garcia.

“The dismantling of USAID has not only left 10,000 dedicated federal workers out of work, including many of my constituents, but it has also made our world less safe and less healthy. What we’ve seen with the Ebola outbreak in the DRC is a tangible example of this carelessness. It’s clear from this report that hundreds of thousands of people have needlessly gone hungry, gotten sick, or died because of the elimination of USAID. It will take years, if not decades, to rebuild our international reputation, and we should start that work now,” said Ranking Member Suhas Subramanyam.

In February 2025, as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Elon Musk addressed a cabinet meeting to say, “We will make mistakes. We won't be perfect. When we make mistakes, we'll fix it very quickly. So, for example, with USAID, one of the things we accidentally canceled very briefly was Ebola prevention. We restored the Ebola prevention immediately—and there was no interruption.” The evidence is clear that Musk’s claim was inaccurate, and that his cuts have badly hindered Ebola prevention, detection, and screening at enormous cost.

According to models from Boston University, 600,000 people have died in just over a year as a direct result of eliminating USAID, two thirds of them children. As of June 2026, a deadly Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda is spreading rapidly, having already sickened more than 1,000 people and killed over 200, in part because the infrastructure USAID built to detect and contain outbreaks like this no longer exists.

###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-gabe-vasquez-conducts-small-business-tour-albuquerques-south-valley,ICYMI: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Conducts Small Business Tour of Albuquerque’s South Valley,2026-06-01,2026,2026-06,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – On May 29, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) spent the day in Albuquerque meeting with local social services organizations, business owners, workers, and seniors to discuss efforts to grow the local economy, combat homelessness, and support New Mexico seniors.

Combating Homelessness With Catholic Charities

Rep. Vasquez began the day at Catholic Charities of Central New Mexico, where he met with staff and discussed work to combat homelessness in Albuquerque. Recently, Rep. Vasquez sent a letter to Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner demanding the agency reverse proposed changes to its longstanding Continuum of Care program, one of one of the largest federal grants that helps people in Albuquerque experiencing homelessness find permanent housing and stay off the streets.

Vasquez is also committed to protecting access to safe and affordable housing for all hardworking New Mexicans. He supports the bipartisan 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, which recently passed the House. The bill marks the biggest win for housing affordability in a generation, and it includes investments in the construction of additional affordable housing projects to boost housing stock and bring down prices, provisions to protect everyday homebuyers from Wall Street corporations, expanded secure financing options to help New Mexicans buy a home, and a requirement that HUD help manufactured and mobile home manufacturers boost production.

Supporting Small Businesses With State Rep. Art De La Cruz

After that, Rep. Vasquez visited several small businesses in the South Valley with State Rep. Art De La Cruz. The two visited Larry’s South Valley Barbering, D&M Automotive, Mr. Shears Certified, and Alberto’s Tire Shop before ending at El Dorado Bakery.

Rep. Vasquez has brought historic investments to the South Valley and Albuquerque small business community, including $850,000 for the economic development center and $500,000 to help upgrade up to 200 local businesses’ storefronts and surrounding infrastructure. He remains committed to bringing home federal resources to help hardworking New Mexicans achieve the American Dream of starting a small business.

Catching Up With Albuquerque Seniors

Later in the day, Rep. Vasquez met with Albuquerque seniors at El Dorado Bakery to hear their concerns — including the challenges of coping with the rising cost of living on a fixed income — and to discuss the Congressman’s work to protect Social Security and lower skyrocketing prescription drug costs and other essentials for seniors.

Rep. Vasquez has stood up for seniors time and time again, including demanding clarity and honesty on taxes on Social Security, championing a bill that would cap annual prescription drug costs, and pressing the USPS on serious concerns about a recent policy change that could unfairly penalize New Mexican seniors who rely on mail to send time-sensitive documents.

###",1,2026-06-16T06:53:21Z,2026-06-16T06:55:02Z
https://fernandez.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=640,"Leger Fernández Celebrates $562,500 Community Funding and Community Match Support for El Valle Community Center in Villanueva",2026-05-29,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,NM,Teresa Leger Fernandez,L000273,fernandez.house.gov,fernandez,https://fernandez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"VILLANUEVA, N.M. — Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) joined community leaders, local families, and philanthropic partners in Villanueva, NM, to celebrate a $562,500 federal Community Project Funding investment for the El Valle Community Center and Library she secured. With music, food, and some big checks, the community celebrated the successful completion of matching funds that will help bring critical renovations and improvements to the historic center.

Leger Fernández secured the $562,500 investment through the FY24 Community Project Funding process. Since coming to Congress, she has delivered more than $124 million in Community Project Funding for projects across New Mexico.

“Being here, surrounded by music and laughter, among people who care about the community, gives me hope,” said Congresswoman Leger Fernández. “When we talk about rural New Mexico, we are really talking about home. Places like this are the beating hearts of Nuevo Mexico, where families gather to celebrate weddings and baptisms, share food, or play basketball, and where children discover new worlds through books. This investment is about more than fixing a building — it’s about protecting culture, preserving community, and building a brighter future for Villanueva. That’s why we had to bring this funding home. I also want to shout out the partners who made this funding possible. The Masons inspired our revolutionary leaders 250 years ago, and their ethics of altruism shine through today. The Las Vegas Community Foundation has shown up in times of disaster and celebration, and Pattern Energy is not just powering our energy future — they’re investing in the very communities where their turbines capture the wind. ”

The El Valle Community Center provides essential services for rural families, including literacy tutoring and library programming for local students, free computer and internet access, a community food pantry, yoga, art classes, a farmers market, and meeting spaces for residents across the region. If a community member has an idea, El Valle will turn it into a reality.

The total $750,000 project will fund major repairs and upgrades to the community center, including a roof replacement or refurbishment, accessibility improvements, insulation, window repairs, and infrastructure upgrades that will allow the center to continue serving families across the San Miguel del Vado Land Grant communities.

“Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández spent much of her childhood in the valley with her extended family. She understands the needs of this and other remote communities that lack access to basic needs services,” said Patricia M. Gallegos, Founder and Honorary Board Member of the El Valle Community Center. “She is passionate about community development, cultural preservation, and rural education. With this award, EVCC is able to help the center become an example of community self-sufficiency and a hub for the underprivileged remote community.”

To meet the required funding match, the center received support from several philanthropic organizations, including $30,000 from the Masonic Charity Foundation of New Mexico, $30,000 from the Las Vegas Community Foundation/Anchorum, and $141,680 from Pattern Energy.

“Pattern Energy is honored to support the El Valle Community Center and the meaningful work its team is doing in Villanueva,” said Jeremy Turner, Senior Director of New Mexico Development and Strategy for Pattern Energy. “We are grateful to build on that track record alongside Congresswoman Leger Fernández, whose leadership helped the Center unlock these additional funds, and we look forward to seeing it move into its next chapter.”

The El Valle Community Center has served the region since 1998 and operates out of the former Villanueva Elementary School building. The center serves residents from Villanueva, Ribera, San Miguel, El Pueblo, Sena, El Cerrito, Gonzalez Ranch, Leyba, and surrounding communities.

###",1,2026-05-30T06:11:53Z,2026-05-30T06:13:24Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-champions-major-richard-star-act-provide-fair-compensation,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Champions the Major Richard Star Act to Provide Fair Compensation for Combat-Injured Veterans,2026-05-28,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) signed a bipartisan discharge petition to require a House vote on the Major Richard Star Act, legislation that would allow combat-injured veterans to receive both their full military retirement pay and Veterans Affairs (VA) disability compensation.

Under current law, most military retirees who have completed 20 years of service are eligible to receive their earned retirement and VA disability benefits concurrently. However, servicemembers who are forced into early retirement due to unforeseen combat-related medical injuries are denied that same benefit. This means combat-injured veterans must forfeit their hard-earned military retirement pay to receive VA disability compensation.

The Major Richard Star Act addresses this inequity by allowing combat-injured veterans who were medically retired before reaching 20 years of service to receive both their full military retirement pay and full VA disability compensation. This bill has strong bipartisan support with 330 cosponsors, including 200 Democrats and 130 Republicans, but it has yet to receive a vote.

Rep. Vasquez stressed that signing this discharge petition and holding a vote on this bipartisan legislation is a critical step towards ensuring medically retired veterans receive full and fair compensation for their hard work and sacrifice.

“Veterans who have been injured on the frontlines are patriots who have risked it all for our country, and they deserve full and fair compensation,” said Vasquez. “I will keep pushing with colleagues from both sides of the aisle to put an end to the wounded veterans tax and ensure no combat-injured hero is forced to forgo their military retirement pay. Pass the Richard Star Act now.”

Rep. Vasquez’s support of the Major Richard Star Act reflects his ongoing commitment to supporting veterans and active-duty service members. His previous work includes:

Spearheading the TRICARE Travel Improvement Act, which Vasquez led and got passed into law with bipartisan support through the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act. The bill lowers the mileage requirement for TRICARE travel reimbursement from 100 miles to 75 miles — helping military families in rural communities more easily access medical care.

The Feed Our Veterans Act, legislation Vasquez introduced and fought for during the most recent Farm Bill markup, to combat food insecurity among veterans and protect them from new burdensome SNAP work requirements introduced under the Republican tax law last summer.

Voted in support of the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act to obtain critical funding that would improve the quality of life for veterans and make substantial investments in infrastructure to support the readiness of active-duty servicemembers in New Mexico.

###",1,2026-06-13T06:32:19Z,2026-06-13T06:34:27Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-secures-key-report-tribal-head-start-and-early-education,Rep. Gabe Vasquez Secures Key Report on Tribal Head Start and Early Education,2026-05-27,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) recently secured the successful release of a new Government Accountability Office (GAO) report he demanded back in June 2024, marking a key step toward ensuring Tribal Head Start programs receive adequate federal attention and resources. The GAO review found that Tribal Head Start programs play a critical role in preserving native languages, culture, and tradition, and it also identified significant administrative and communication challenges that have impacted enrollment and staffing efforts across essential Head Start programs.

Key findings from the Tribal Head Start Government Accountability Office Report included:

The Office of Head Start took an average of 199 days to communicate approval decisions to Tribal Head Start programs.

Delays in communication, lasting up to 308 days, limited some Tribal programs' ability to increase teacher compensation and address staffing shortages.

The review found the Office of Head Start had not fully identified or addressed the root causes of ongoing timelines and communication issues reported by Tribal programs.

Enrollment in Tribal Head Start programs declined from approximately 26,000 children in the 2018-2019 school year to about 18,000 children in 2023-2024.

These findings in the GAO report provide important recommendations and a path forward for the federal government to strengthen support for Tribal communities and ensure these critical early childhood education programs have the resources and responsiveness they deserve.

“Students in Tribal communities deserve access to essential programs like Head Start, which provide foundational early childhood education and play a critical role in preserving culture and tradition for future generations,” said Vasquez. “This report outlines a roadmap for the federal government to do right by our Tribal communities and make sure Tribal Head Start programs are getting the attention and resources they need to help future generations thrive, and I plan to keep pushing every step of the way to turn this roadmap into meaningful action.”

Securing the GAO’s Tribal Head Start report builds on Rep. Vasquez’s longstanding work to secure adequate funding and resources for the program. His previous work includes:

Visiting Isleta Pueblo Head Start to discuss the importance of early childhood education, language and cultural preservation, as well as the role Tribal gaming revenues play in supporting essential community services.

Co-signing a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services urging action to address the severe impacts of recent federal funding interruptions and the government shutdown risks on Head Start programs in New Mexico and across the country.

Pushing for a $14 billion investment dedicated to Head Start in the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies appropriations bill to strengthen early childhood education and expand access for families nationwide.

###",1,2026-06-10T06:36:00Z,2026-06-10T06:37:32Z
https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-gabe-vasquez-works-economic-growth-housing-affordability-and-immigration,"Rep. Gabe Vasquez Works for Economic Growth, Housing Affordability, and Immigration and Border Security Solutions in Deming",2026-05-27,2026,2026-05,Democrat,House,NM,Gabe Vasquez,V000136,vasquez.house.gov,vasquez,https://vasquez.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"DEMING, N.M. – On May 27, 2026, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) spent the day in Deming meeting with local business owners, workers, community leaders, and residents to discuss economic growth, housing affordability, agriculture, and his commonsense immigration and border security solutions for southern New Mexico.

The Congressman’s time in Deming included a tour of Luna Rossa Winery to discuss the state’s burgeoning wine industry, a visit on housing affordability with manufactured housing producer Solitaire Homes, and a community town hall focused on immigration and border security issues.

Supporting New Mexico’s Growing Wine Industry

Rep. Vasquez began the day at Luna Rossa Winery, where he toured the vineyard alongside winery leaders and New Mexico agriculture stakeholders and discussed the state of New Mexico’s wine industry. During the visit, winery leaders shared that New Mexico’s wine industry — the nation’s oldest — is growing, noted the importance of federal grants for economic stability and growth, and outlined concerns, including labor issues.

During the meeting, local business owners and leaders also thanked the Congressman for his support of the Farm Bill, which just passed out of the House with bipartisan support. The Farm Bill granted specialty crop growers, including New Mexico grape growers, $1 billion to protect their crops and supported critical programs to help these producers stay competitive amidst instability caused by climate change and the President’s trade wars.

Fighting for Affordable Housing in Southern New Mexico

Later in the day, Rep. Vasquez met with staff and toured Solitaire Homes’ factory to discuss efforts to boost New Mexico’s housing supply and address the housing affordability crisis. During the visit, the Congressman met with employees and company leadership to discuss housing demand, manufactured housing production, and federal efforts to make homeownership more affordable for hardworking New Mexicans.

Rep. Vasquez also highlighted his support of the bipartisan 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, which recently passed the House. The bill marks the biggest win for housing affordability in a generation, and it includes investments in the construction of additional affordable housing projects to boost housing stock and bring down prices, provisions to protect everyday homebuyers from Wall Street corporations, expanded secure financing options to help New Mexicans buy a home, and a requirement that HUD help manufactured and mobile home manufacturers boost production.

He also spoke about his Keep Mobile Homes Affordable Act, which cracks down on corporate landlords engaging in predatory price gouging in the mobile home market and helps ensure manufactured housing remains an affordable option for New Mexico families. In New Mexico, one in six homes is a mobile or manufactured home.

Hosting a Community Town Hall on Immigration and Border Security

Rep. Vasquez concluded the day by hosting a public town hall in Deming to discuss the need for border security and commonsense immigration reform. The Congressman heard residents’ concerns and laid out his New American Immigration Plan — a roadmap of balanced, commonsense reforms to secure our borders, expand legal pathways, and strengthen our economy.

Residents asked questions about border security, ICE detention facilities, and more, and Rep. Vasquez shared updates on his work to strengthen border security through smart technology such as aerostats and autonomous surveillance towers, bipartisan bills to combat cartels, and expanded resources for U.S. Customs and Border Protection to enhance cargo scanning capabilities at ports of entry. The Congressman also shared details on his legislation aimed at creating pathways to legal status for long-term workers in essential industries — including agriculture and construction.

“I appreciated the opportunity to listen to the questions, concerns, and suggestions regarding border security, immigration, and the economy at my town hall in Deming tonight,” said Vasquez. “Folks want commonsense reform to fix a deeply broken system that has been politicized for far too long. That’s why I’ll continue to lead on providing practical immigration solutions in Congress that strengthen our economy, protect our border, and create a more fair, just, and functioning immigration system that is reflective of our American values.”

###",1,2026-06-12T06:37:16Z,2026-06-12T06:39:00Z