Even some prominent gun control advocates are raising concerns over the temporary ban on firearms imposed by New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
The Democratic governor’s unilateral decision to suspend open and concealed carry laws in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County for 30 days has sparked a heated debate, with many questioning its constitutionality.
Despite acknowledging that criminals will likely ignore the order, Governor Lujan Grisham claims it is necessary for public health reasons.
Typically, those who support the regulation of firearms have expressed approval of initiatives to further restrict them. However, in this case, Governor Lujan Grisham’s actions were met with dissent even from these individuals.
“I support gun safety laws. However, this order from the Governor of New Mexico violates the U.S. Constitution. No state in the union can suspend the federal Constitution. There is no such thing as a state public health emergency exception to the U.S. Constitution,” Rep. Ted Lieu (D-Calif.) responded.
David Hogg, a survivor of the Parkland High School tragedy who advocates for stricter gun control laws, concurred with Lieu.
“I support gun safety but there is no such thing as a state public health emergency exception to the U.S. Constitution,” Hogg said.
Nationally renowned gun control advocates have spoken out in opposition to Governor Lujan Grisham’s order, and it is further noted that local officials and law enforcement personnel do not intend to enforce the order. This includes Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman, Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, and Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina. All three of these individuals are Democrats.
“As an officer of the court, I cannot and will not enforce something that is clearly unconstitutional,” Bregman said. “This office will continue to focus on criminals of any age that use guns in the commission of a crime.”
On Sunday, gun rights advocates gathered in Old Town Albuquerque and refused to abide by Governor Lujan Grisham’s order. Despite this, no arrests were made and it appears that the order was not enforced.
The National Association for Gun Rights has also filed a lawsuit in federal court to challenge the governor’s edict.
Furthermore, state legislators are calling for impeachment proceedings against Lujan Grisham due to their belief that she is disregarding the state and federal constitutions and laws of New Mexico.
In response, the governor has declared her intent to defend her order in court.
