News Staff

Most people have life goals and an understanding of at least some of the steps required to achieve them. Those steps include countless decisions and hundreds of actions which under the best set of circumstances might propel us to accomplishing our aim. The expectation of predictability in cause and affect is central and nourishing to us as our good efforts bear good fruit.

Relentless weekend rain caused additional flooding across northern New Mexico and the Navajo Nation, prompting evacuations near the San Juan, La Plata, Animas and Chama rivers. At least 10,000 homes had already sustained damage. Chama closed roads amid sewage concerns, while outages affected Navajo communities. The state authorized up to $55 million in emergency funds.

The 2026 New Mexico Bass Nation Kayak season featured close finishes, difficult conditions, personal-best catches and strong performances from first-time competitors. Noah Hoffmann won the Conchas opener, Club Classic Championship and Angler of the Year title, while Chance Hubbard claimed the State Championship. Six events showcased kayak fishing across New Mexico’s premier waters.

New Mexico anglers found strong trout action at Monastery, Fenton, Bonito and other lakes, with effective baits including PowerBait, nightcrawlers, worms and leech flies. Rainbow trout conditions varied on the Rio Grande, Rio Chama and San Juan River, while bass were biting at Bill Evans Lake. Catfish action remained slow to fair at Tingley Beach and Elephant Butte Lake.

This opinion essay argues that the upcoming midterm elections represent more than a referendum on gas prices or presidential approval. It frames the contest as a fundamental choice between limited government and free-market capitalism and a progressive socialist agenda, examining immigration, energy, Iran, fraud, DEI, and Islamism while warning of the consequences.

New Mexico School for the Arts gives students statewide access to rigorous academics and pre-professional arts training, but distance remains a barrier. Its dormitory provides free housing, meals and programming for rural students who could not otherwise attend. As NMSA seeks permanent dorm funding in 2027, state leaders should ensure ZIP code never limits a student’s talent.

With New Mexico facing severe challenges in crime, education, poverty, economic freedom and healthcare, El Rito Media compares gubernatorial candidates Deb Haaland and Gregg Hull. The editorial criticizes Haaland’s progressive policies and refusal to debate, while highlighting Hull’s record as Rio Rancho mayor and proposals for tax, regulatory, education and malpractice reform before endorsing him for governor.

An opinion column examines New Mexico’s House Bill 99, arguing its medical malpractice reforms only “stopped the bleeding” while doctors remain at risk of leaving the state. It praises lawmakers who advanced the measure and scrutinizes House Democrats who sought to weaken or opposed it, urging voters to consider legislative records and healthcare access in the election.

Sen. Jeff Steinborn urges New Mexico’s State Investment Council to review and divest public funds tied to Russia and companies controlled by Elon Musk, citing Ukraine’s suffering and Starlink restrictions. A new Alex Gibney documentary, “Musk,” intensifies concerns about Musk’s business practices, political influence, data access and ability to affect warfare and foreign policy.

The editorial board endorses Republican Martin Zamora for New Mexico’s 3rd Congressional District. A lifelong Clovis-area rancher, farmer and state representative since 2019, Zamora brings bipartisan experience and strong knowledge of agriculture, water and conservation. His priorities include compensating Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire victims, creating jobs and addressing housing and infrastructure needs tied to Los Alamos National Laboratory’s expansion.

Chaves County voters head to the polls Tuesday, Nov. 3, with voting available at 13 convenience centers in Roswell, Dexter, Hagerman and Lake Arthur. The ballot includes local, legislative, congressional and statewide races, including contests for governor and public land commissioner, plus four constitutional amendments, three bonds and a proposed economic development gross receipts tax.

Cal Thomas argues that, despite President Trump’s personality and controversies, Republicans should be leading ahead of the 2026 elections based on claimed gains in household income, poverty, border enforcement, crime reduction, tax policy, deregulation, and domestic manufacturing. He contends Democrats would hinder that progress, while urging Trump to campaign less around himself and more around these results.