New Mexico Energy Workers Power Governor’s Budget Proposal

January 14, 2021

If there is one thing politicians love to do, it’s taking credit for how they spend our money.

Recently, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham proudly unveiled her budget proposal for the next year. The $7.3 billion proposal is an improvement over just a few months ago when economists were concerned about the state running a budget deficit.

In New Mexico, the oil and natural gas industry makes up well over 30 percent of the state’s budget. So, it would be impossible for Governor Lujan Grisham, or any other politician in Santa Fe, to fully fund their pet programs without New Mexico’s energy workers, even though some of those politicians attack the industry at every turn.

As Governor Grisham pats herself on the back for her budget proposal, it would be fair to ask how much of her spending would be possible if we “transition away from fossil fuels” as she supports.

Santa Fe politicians like Governor Lujan Grisham may attack the energy industry, but that doesn’t stop them from cashing the checks.