Governor Lujan Grisham’s Extensive Travel Sparks Mixed Reactions
SANTA FE, June 5 — As her second term nears its conclusion, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has been notably active outside New Mexico, spending 40 of the last 76 days traveling for business and diplomatic engagements. This includes trips to Asia, Maryland, Los Angeles, and most recently, a state delegation to Alaska for an energy summit attended by Trump administration officials.
The Governor’s Office claims that these trips are essential for fostering business partnerships and advocating for federal resources, with spokesperson Jodi McGinnis Porter stating, "Each trip is strategically planned to deliver tangible results for New Mexico families and businesses." Furthermore, Lt. Gov. Howie Morales is kept informed of the Governor’s travel schedule, ensuring state business remains uninterrupted during her absences.
Longtime political analyst Brian Sanderoff remarked that while out-of-state travel can attract criticism, Lujan Grisham may feel freer to travel with her term coming to an end, especially since she cannot seek a third consecutive term. Despite mixed opinions on her travel habits, the financial aspects vary, with some trips funded by taxpayers and others by her political action committee or nonprofit partners.
While the governor maintains active communication regarding state emergencies, especially concerning drought and wildfire preparedness, her travels have led to concerns about her focus on pressing issues at home, including escalating crime rates. After this legislative session, she indicated intentions to address juvenile crime and firearm legislation but has since retreated from announcing a special session.
As she prepares to conclude her term in 2026, Lujan Grisham’s extensive travel continues to attract both scrutiny and support, reflecting the balancing act of governance and global diplomacy.
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