Attorney Tom Clear

Tracking ongoing explosive developments in the massive DWI bribery scandal involving APD, the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Department and the NM State Police is the busiest of news beats.

After the reveal that BernCo Sheriff John Allen received a $200 campaign contribution from paralegal and now convicted felon Rick Mendez, we have a look into the campaign contributions of attorney Tom Clear, the kingpin of the scandal that centered on his bribing of law enforcement officers to get his DWI clients off the hook. 

Both Clear and Mendez have pleaded guilty to federal charges and await sentencing.

We track Clear's campaign donations back to 1998, three years after the beginning of the decades-long bribery scheme. The campaign finance site OpenSecrets shows he made considerable contributions to a number of campaigns including two District Attorneys--Bernalillo County DA Raul Torrez and Sandoval County DA Lemuel Martinez. Earlier it was reported that current Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman received a $1,000 donation to his '24 campaign. After the disclosure, Bregman's office said the campaign returned Clear's check. 

Torrez was elected DA in 2016 and re-elected in 2020. In 2022, he ran for attorney general and assumed that office January 1, 2023. According to OpenSecrets, Torres' campaign for attorney general received a total of $3,000 in four separate donations from Clear in 2021 and 2022.

Martinez, who served as Sandoval County area DA for 20 years from 2001-2021 also received four campaign donations from Clear. They totaled $2,000 and were made in 2005-2006.

Thus far the DWI scandal has been centered in Bernalillo County with no cases emerging involving Sandoval County law enforcement. 

OTHER DONATIONS

Former Attorney General Hector Balderas, now president of Northern New Mexico Community College, is also listed by OpenSecrets as receiving campaign money from Clear. The two donations totaling $1,500 came in 2011 and were made to Balderas' campaign for the Democratic nomination for US Senate against Martin Heinrich. They were made when Balderas was State Auditor, the office he held before becoming AG.

Torrez, Martinez, Bregman and Balderas are Democrats but Clear also made donations to Republicans. 

He gave $2,000 to the 2000 presidential campaign of George W. Bush; $100 to the 1998 campaign of gubernatorial candidate Gary Johnson and $100 to the 2010 gubernatorial campaign of Susana Martinez.

When it was discovered Allen's campaign had received that $200 from paralegal Mendez his campaign spokeswoman said it would "be ridiculous" to think the contribution meant he had any knowledge of the DWI bribery scandal. She said Allen has since donated the $200 to MADD, a group that fights drunk driving, 

Politicians receive campaign contributions from a wide array of individuals and getting one from someone who later gets in trouble with the law is not extraordinary. In this case it does not mean those receiving Clear's contributions had anything to do with the scandal.  But with the state facing one of the worst corruption cases in its history, transparency is the order of the day in all public activities of the now notorious attorney Tom Clear.

ALLEN'S BAD WEEK 

Sheriff Allen and Mendez

Sheriff John Allen has twisted and turned and raged and ranted since his department's role in the DWI bribery scandal has broadened. 

At a boisterous news conference last week (video here), Allen even went after the media, saying he felt "defamed" by the news coverage and in particular a photo that surfaced showing Allen in a shoulder to shoulder embrace with DWI bribery felon Rick Mendez. 

The pic was taken at a lunch also attended by his Undersheriff who has since been forced to resign and is facing legal peril because of the scandal. Also, a Sheriff's deputy has joined the growing list of law enforcement officers copping pleas to federal bribery charges.

Allen denies any knowledge of the scandal at the time of that lunch. In an earlier media interview he described Mendez as "a friend." He now says Mendez is a "piece of crap." 

The photo and Allen's various media appearances demonstrate the devastating optics that this scandal can and will have.

Allen has walked back his criticism of the feds for keeping him out of the loop on their DWI investigation. We questioned why he would expect sensitive information to be shared with him when suspects work in is department.

At the news conference Allen, citing Undersheriff Jareno's ouster and targeting by the feds, said he now "of course" understands why he was kept in the dark.

Allen's bad week--he says it was "a very emotional one"--included an attack on him from Republican Paul Pacheco who ran for and lost the sheriff's office to Allen in 2022. Pacheco is a retired APD cop. While his hit on Allen was politically timely his own service at the corruption-riddled APD would be a story line if he decides to run for Sheriff in 2026.

Sheriff Allen is a newcomer to La Politica, holding an office that is not often under intense scrutiny. But like the Santa Fe sheriff's office that has had to deal with the Alec Baldwin case and now the high-profile death of famed action Gene Hackman, he is being tested on all fronts. His outburst over the reporting of his activities is over the top but nothing that a few deep breaths shouldn't be able to keep in check. 

The Sheriff's task is now to be a reformer as well as a protector of his department. One without the other is not going to cut it. 

Here's more on Allen's really bad week. 

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Here are some clippings that fell to our newsroom floor this week so let's pick them up.

Republicans are jazzed over the prospect of taking back the governorship in '26. They will need a formidable candidate and one possible now appears "pretty doubtful," according to sources. 

Former NM Supreme Court Chief Justice Judy Nakamura has been testing the waters for a run at the GOP Guv nod. She became the last Republican to carry Bernalillo County in a statewide election in 2016. With her now on the unlikely list the two strongest possibles may be Rio Rancho Mayor Gregg Hull, who has publicly confirmed his interest, and former Lt. Gov. John Sanchez who hasn't said anything. 

On the Dem side candidate Deb Haaland continues to roll out endorsements. Recently she came with 50 of them. 

Former Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima has said he is exploring a bid and BernCo DA Sam Bregman is a possible but has made no comment. 

We get this from a Democrat of long experience who believes the Dem primary could still be competitive even with Haaland the clear early front-runner: 

Joe, I love Deb. I’d love to see her as governor. Then the inevitable butt. I’m hearing and sensing whispers about her electability. The Dems are desperate not to give back what they have achieved here particularly around women’s healthcare rights. With almost a year and a half to hammer her she could be yesterday’s news by the time the primary comes around. If I was Sam Bregman I’d come in late and hard as a "traditional" Democrat. Way late and way hard. The message would be “ I can get elected." Not one negative word about Deb. She has plenty of time to shoot herself in both feet before he gets in. I actually hope I’m wrong.  

The saying says all will be known in the fullness of time. When it comes the early race to replace MLG we prefer the quote from a song sung by Louis Armstrong: "We have all the time in the world."

GULF OF SOMETHING

Monahan in 2007

This is from Ray Seva, retired PIO for the NM Department of Veterans' Services:

Hi Joe, At lunch, a couple of buddies of mine (one Democrat, one Republican) and I were wondering: in light of the "Gulf of Mexico" name change, do you think a Democrat legislator should have introduced a memorial to protect our state's name from being changed to "New America?" On second thought, maybe Dems would think that would sound very progressive, no? (I've been an avid reader for 21-years now--keep up the great work!)

21 years!? That goes back to the blog's founding in 2003. It's always an honor and pleasure to hear from readers who have stuck with us that long. Thanks very much, Ray. With that kind of loyalty, we'll have to splurge for lunch at Barelas for you and the gang.

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Paul Pacheco

The mind-blowing law enforcement DWI scandal won't only play out in the courts but also the political arena, so let the games begin. . . 

Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen isn't up for re-election until November 2026 but it appears that the Republican who ran and lost against him in 2022 is back on the trail and prepping a campaign to oust Allen as the Sheriff's department becomes more embroiled in the federal bribery investigation. 

Already Undersheriff Johann Jareno--second in command at the department--has been forced to resign and a deputy being investigated was placed on leave, has now also resigned, pleaded guilty to bribery and implicated an unnamed supervisor.

That brought out retired APD officer and Allen GOP rival Paul Pacheco who came with this on social media:

 Sheriff John Allen and the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Department are facing serious scrutiny as the FBI investigates allegations of corruption within their DWI unit. At the center of this scandal are Undersheriff  Johann Jareno, who recently resigned, Deputy Jeff Hammerel, who was placed on administrative leave, and Ricardo "Rick" Mendez, a paralegal and longtime friend of Allen, who was recently charged by the FBI. Mendez has been accused of bribing law enforcement officers since 2008 and was also a contributor to Allen's 2022 campaign for sheriff, raising further concerns about his influence within the department. Allen personally elevated Jareno from the rank of sergeant to undersheriff, a significant leap in rank that now raises serious concerns given his involvement in the investigation. With three of Allen's close associates now implicated in misconduct, the integrity of his leadership is under serious fire. 

ALLEN VS. PACHECO

That campaign contribution to Allen from now convicted felon Rick Mendez was for $200. An Allen spokeswoman told us last week:

Sheriff Allen

John Allen had no idea Mendez was involved in a DWI corruption scheme that involved the city, state and BCSO and he has since donated the $200 contribution to MADD, a group John has supported for years. 

A spokeswoman for Allen did not respond to an inquiry for comment on Pacheco's statement. 

Pacheco, a former two-term state representative from ABQ's westside, lost to Allen 54 to 42 with a third candidate getting 4 percent. 

Corruption has always been a gateway issue for Republicans to break the lock on a Democratic hold. Pacheco is obviously putting Allen on notice. 

ABQ Mayor Tim Keller, seeking re-election to a third term this November, has not yet drawn a political opponent seen as a heavyweight contender who could make hay over the scandal. But the year is young and Pacheco has broken the ice. 

RIDING WITH RUSK

Mayors Keller & Rusk

From the city of ABQ:  

Former ABQ Mayor David Rusk, 84, was honored with the dedication of ABQ RIDE’s original transit facility and the KiMo Theatre’s orchestra pit and foyer, now bearing his name. Rusk, who served as mayor from 1977-1981, advocated for smart and inclusive growth, sustainability, and public safety in transit. He was also instrumental in the renovation of the KiMo Theatre. . .into an arts and entertainment center.  

We covered Rusk's mayoral term and recall how one of his first acts as mayor was to announce that he would ride the bus to City Hall each workday from his SE Heights home. He enjoyed meeting people during those rides. Sadly, that might not be a wise choice today.

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Jareno and Sheriff Allen

This is one of the more ironic photos you'll find in La Politica. 

It's a pic of Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen announcing in 2023 his appointment of new Undersheriff Johann Jareno at a DWI command center. That's the same Undersheriff Jareno who has resigned at Allen's urging after it was disclosed that Jareno is under investigation in connection with the FBI probe into the APD/BSCO/NM State Police DWI bribery scandal. 

(The pic is courtesy of crime news site ABQ RAW.)

With the news that the scandal comes within a hair's breadth of the county's chief law enforcement officer, events are taking on an added dimension, one that resembles a tragedy as much as a scandal. 

Law enforcement credibility has been decimated--even if you wouldn't know it by listening to elected officials--or not listening. Comments from them have been few and far between as the Feds go about their task of uncovering what APD watchdog Dan Klein says may be "one of the most widespread corruption cases in the history of US policing."

That may be labeled hyperbole but as the dominoes fall and the casualty count rises, it seems more than reasonable.  

ROUNDHOUSE REACT

State Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Joseph Cervantes did speak out on the latest installment of the corruption scandal, asserting that Sheriff Allen was "cleaning house" by urging the Undersheriff to resign after being notified of the FBI's investigation. Cervantes said on the socials:

I've caught hell arguing the most effective way to combat rampant Albuquerque crime begins with strong leadership - not more unenforced laws. This DWI corruption has gone on decades, and kudos to a decisive Sheriff acting immediately to clean house.

But is this the time for "kudos" for doing the expected or perhaps a time for more legislative interest and oversight in the scandal?

THE FEDS AND ALLEN

Jareno started working with BCSO in March 2009 and served in the DWI Unit from December 2011 until October 2019. He was appointed undersheriff in 2023, so it appears any alleged criminal behavior did not occur while he was the #2 man at the agency.

That's a sliver of good news for Sheriff Allen, who took office in January 2023 and now is grappling with the possibility that even more deputies may be implicated. Jareno is the second. 

Earlier this month Allen criticized the US Attorney's office for what he says was a lack of "communication" about the scandal but he took a more humble tone in addressing the disgrace that fell on his department on Monday, saying: 

We are fully cooperating with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to ensure that all aspects of this investigation are thoroughly addressed. I am grateful for the FBI bringing this new development to my attention directly and due to the ongoing nature of this federal inquiry, our comments must be measured, but be assured that transparency and communication will continue to be a priority of my administration. We are undertaking a thorough review of our internal policies and control mechanisms to prevent such incidents in the future. 

THE HARSH REALITY

Senior law officers in our state, despite impressive credentials and experience, have been reluctant to acknowledge what is happening here.

Three of our police agencies are considered rogue, riddled with decades-long DWI corruption and not to be trusted with confidential information regarding the federal investigation--an undertaking that has led to multiple officers being charged with criminal actions against the laws of the United States.

The federal probe is not a witch hunt. While it took seemingly forever for this scandal to be uncovered, it demonstrates the system of justice is still functioning. Whether it will foster reforms that stick remains in question.

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Sens. Wirth and Sharer (PBS)

With the first half of the 2025 legislative session in the rear view mirror, let's look at the most significant developments.

--The signature piece of legislation this session will be a reboot of the state's inadequate behavioral healthcare system that has roadblocked progress in fighting crime and other social ills, keeping the state ranked at or near the bottom in national rankings. 

But be forewarned, the bills at the Capitol do not offer a quick fix.

In reviewing the legislation (SB 1,2 and 3) portions are exceedingly complicated and bureaucratic. For example, the judiciary will assume major responsibility for implementing the complex rebuild. They've never done that and it will take time for them to adjust. 

Even after the Governor signs the bills (expected soon) uncertainty will prevail over finding enough competent health care workers to service the need.

Another question lingers: whether we can dig deep enough to reach those afflicted, considering the extent of drug addiction ravaging the state and so often impervious to treatment.

But this is a good faith effort, aggressive and well-financed, albeit very late in coming. 

Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth has done yeoman's work pushing this vital need to the top of the agenda. Minority Leader Bill Sharer has ably led his caucus in support. The House under Speaker Javier Martinez has been first on the case. The Governor has pushed forward, assuaging concerns about that novel involvement of the judiciary. 

Everyone is finally pulling together for those left so far behind in an era of nearly unimaginable plenty. It is meaningful bipartisan teamwork only rarely seen at the Roundhouse and it comes in the aftermath of an election that made everyone more pragmatic about state politics. 

We are neither a progressive paradise or a conservative utopia. On matters such as the breakdown in mental health treatment we have to meet in the middle and, by golly, they are doing just that in Santa Fe.

CRIME

There's not much to say about the minor league crime package that is on the way to MLG's desk other than that it seems mostly a political gesture. But the Governor will take what she can get and declare victory. 

Longer sentences for pushing fentanyl will do little to stop the scourge, according to experts. Similar skepticism is heard over the tweaking of the competency laws for defendants. But the public demands something, anything.  

In lieu of the lightweight crime package (with the exception of juvenile code reforms that have stalled) the behavioral health package is the crime package.

TAXES

The Republican argument for permanent tax relief may be gaining ground on the Democrats as the oil gusher shows no signs of stopping and more billions pile up. Their call for the complete elimination of the state personal income tax proved to be a nonstarter but their contention that the bill started a conversation may hold water (or oil if you prefer.) 

Former Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima, a conservative Dem who announced late last week that he is considering a run for the '26 Dem Guv nomination, is in favor of returning much of the state surplus to residents.  

The Roundhouse Dems are still talking tax credits --not cash. 

BOOZE TAX

When it comes to the proposed tax hike on booze you may have to go big or go home. That's the message in the fiscal impact report on this year's plan to raise the alcohol tax by 6 percent, including at retail outlets, bars and restaurants. The report says the expected impact on consumption is only a decline of about 1 percent.

The House sponsors are fighting the good fight, but hopes now rest more on the behavioral health remake to address the state's deadly booze addiction rather than a tax increase that could give false hope because of its miniaturized impact. 

OIL TAX

The plan to increase the royalty tax for drilling on oil rich state lands In the Permian to 25 percent from 20 percent has passed the Senate and heads to the House.

That comes at a time when lawmakers can't fully figure out what to do with the stacks of cash already stuffed in the bulging mattresses. They have, however, gone mad for trust funds to trickle out the largess, 

If signed into law, the tax hike would be a feather in the cap of State Land Commissioner Stephanie Garcia Richard who has led the charge for it and any future political ambitions she may hold (Lt. Gov.?).

That's the way we see it this February Monday. Thanks for tuning in.

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MLG and brother (Journal)

What's next on the higher education front after that in-your-face appointment by the Governor of her 64 year old brother Greg Lujan as the new student regent at New Mexico Highlands University? 

Well, how about the appointment of Lt. Governor Howie Morales as the new president of Western New Mexico University at Silver City where Joseph Shepard was forced out because of a spending scandal?

The Governor doesn't actually make that appointment but the school's regents who are appointed by the chief executive do make the pick. Morales has made it no secret that his "dream job" is the WNMU presidency in his native Silver City, an area he served as state senator before becoming lieutenant governor in 2019. He does come with qualifications as his bio notes:

(Morales) is a native of Silver City, where he still resides with his two children. Howie earned a PhD in Education from New Mexico State University – going on to be a classroom teacher and successful coach for a decade.

A Morales appointment would be an insider pick but not the stomach punch lame duck Governor MLG delivered when she chose her brother for that Highlands position in the aftermath of the outrage over Shepard's activities.

Shepard was given an over-the-top $1.9 million cash buyout by the clubby WNMU regents, a buyout still being challenged by the Attorney General. 

And speaking of Attorney General, don't forget that former two termer AG Hector Balderas is now president of Northern New Mexico Community College with Howie perhaps joining the club in the near future. Maybe they can start a poker night (but probably best to leave out the Guv's brother).

Of course, if amiable Howie lands that WNMU post--which pays on the order of $200K a year--MLG would be appointing a new lieutenant governor to fill out the remainder of his term that runs until 2027. Some wags already are advancing freshly-minted gubernatorial candidate Deb Haaland as a possible replacement. But Sam Bregman might be more entertaining. 

In any event MLG's lame-duck appointment of her brother yet again frustrates the public as cronyism, wasteful spending and feeble oversight remain cornerstones of La Politica. 

RIDICULOUS OR NOT?

Sheriff Allen

The sprawling APD DWI bribery scandal touched the office of Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen when one of his deputies was placed on administrative leave because of the Federal investigation into the bribery scheme. 

Allen complained in an interview that the Feds were not communicating with him about the investigation. A campaign contribution from one of the scandal ringleaders--paralegal and convicted felon Rick Mendez--was also noted here this week. 

We called that a "red flag" and said all campaign contributions and fund-raisers of those involved and pleading guilty in the scheme should be examined as the scandal grows octopus-like tentacles. 

Allen's campaign manager, Neri Holguin, begs to disagree: 

As a candidate for Sheriff in 2022, John Allen received just $200 from Rick Mendez and nothing from attorney Thomas Clear. To suggest that "red flags" should be raised because Sheriff Allen disclosed that contribution, is ridiculous. Of course John Allen had no idea Mendez was involved in a DWI corruption scheme that involved the city, state and BCSO and he has since donated the $200 contribution to MADD, a group John has supported for years. 

Ridiculous, Neri? 

What is "ridiculous" is the utter apathy by the political class over this corruption. 

Of course, any campaign contributions by the DWI bribery felons to law enforcement or the judiciary should be reported and analyzed. 

That doesn't mean the recipients are guilty of anything but unless we want another 30 year run of bribery and deception at the state's largest police force--and however long it has been nesting in the offices of the sheriff and state police--every rock needs to be turned over.

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Sen. Jeff Steinborn has taken heat over his bill to legalize the hallucinogenic drug psilocybin, with critics citing the mostly disappointing results from legalizing marijuana and the continued damage drugs cause to the state's large fragile population. But Steinborn says the criticism of SB219 is misleading because the measure is akin to medical marijuana not wide-open legalization:

Regarding medical use of psilocybin, the FDA has labeled psilocybin as a "breakthrough therapy" for people with major depressive disorders, and its proven effective for PTSD, and other behavioral health conditions. Unlike cannabis, this will be only be administered in a clinical setting. Given the research, it’s humane to provide this medical option to thousands of New Mexicans suffering with difficult conditions.  

The bill would appropriate $4 million, mostly for personnel to administer the program. Chances of passage this session? About as good as Sen. Peter Wirth downing psilocybin on a Saturday night.

So if that drug seems destined to flame out at the Roundhouse how about ABQ Dem Senator Harold Pope's annual proposal to stop the boozing in the Senate? His SR1 is one of the simplest bills:

No senator shall consume alcohol before or during any floor session or meeting of a committee to which a member has been appointed.

The proposal has been sent to two committees. Chances of passage? About as good as the Bull Ring cancelling happy hour.

As expected, that sweeping GOP proposal to eliminate the state personal income tax was smacked down in committee by House Speaker Javier Martinez, but that doesn't mean there isn't a shot at tax relief for lower income households this session. This bill is starting to advance, say the Dems:

The legislation (HB14) would increase refundable credits for qualifying taxpayers and expand eligibility for those credits, including to single filers without children. It would effectively eliminate state income taxes for New Mexico families making less than $55,000 a year. 

The tax credit plan is to be included in an omnibus tax package. 

THE BROADBAND LAMENT

Leger-Fernandez (Moore, Journal)

Senator Ben Ray Lujan and Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez aren't about to throw business to Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of Starlink that is delivering fast internet to homes across the globe. But perhaps they should. Their comments to the legislature this week expressing frustration with how long the roll out of broadband to the state's rural areas is taking appears out of touch:

(Lujan) urged funding tied to closing gaps in broadband access in the state.“It’s time for the state to start investing these dollars,” Lujan said. “If you don’t believe me, just go back and chat with the folks back at home, and take time to travel down that long, dirt road to that one farm where you know the family but you know there’s no connectivity.” Leger Fernández agreed.“We can’t just have broadband in the big house. We need it in the adobe house. We need it in the ranch house,” she said, generating applause. “We need it in every house in New Mexico.”

Billions have been appropriated for laying expensive fiber in the ground to delver broadband to remote areas but it is taking years and is being left behind by satellite service that our rural kids and seniors could have right now. That is, If our congressional reps would not only urge the state to more rapidly deploy the millions already appropriated but work on legislation to give the state authority to spend more on satellite broadband. Then those ranch and adobe houses that Fernandez laments are still not being served would be.

Starlink covers the entirety of the lower 48 states at a cost of just $120 per month for unlimited residential use. Typical download speed easily exceeds the FCC’s 25 Mbps threshold for “unserved” and often exceeds the FCC’s 100 Mbps threshold for “underserved.” 

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US Attorney Alex Uballez

First his cellphone was turned off. Then the Trump administration turned the lights out on US Attorney Alex Uballez. Soon he will be replaced with a Republican. 

Uballez was forced to resign Monday. Happy Presidents Day, Alex.

That sacking is par for the course for any new President. Uballez was appointed by Biden in 2022 to replace a Republican but this time the switch is accompanied by weighty issues now hanging in limbo: 

--Will the new GOP USA lay down a marker and pledge to aggressively pursue to the end the APD DWI bribery scandal that Uballez has presided over? Any hesitation could inhibit others involved in the scheme from coming forward or worse, the investigation gets slow-walked. On the bright side, the ringleader of the scheme has spilled all the beans and taken a plea bargain so some of the forward motion resolving the scandal is unstoppable. 

--Will Trump appoint a Republican firebrand MAGA as the new USA? In his first term he chose John Anderson, a moderate R with solid legal credentials who did not engage in radical interpretations of criminal justice or target any specific groups. This time the outcome is less certain. 

--If Trump does go with a MAGA member will that mean ABQ's status as a sanctuary city is placed in the bullseye and the deportation of undocumented migrants escalated? 

--Will a Trump appointee make good news when it comes to slowing Cartel drug traffic into the state?

The next step is for an interim US attorney to be selected (usually from the current staff). Later a permanent appointee will be named who must win confirmation from the Republican-controlled US Senate. 

Senators Heinrich or Lujan could put a "hold" on any nomination they found offensive which would cause a delay in the vote but probably not for long. The function of the office with a full-fledged leader is desired by the public and eventually Trump would get his way. 

 MEDIA AND SCANDAL

Tom Clear (Sorber, Journal)

 When the news about Uballez broke we were working on this report about the ongoing DWI scandal. And off we go. . .

Where are the perp walks of the offenders? Courtroom sketches of the plea hearings? Defense attorneys on the steps of the courthouse doing their best to spin the sad outcome for their clients? Where is the in-the-courtroom reporting from the Federal Courthouse?

All of those are ordinary elements of a major scandal such as the federal APD "DWI Enterprise" investigation taking down wayward cops and the lawyer, Tom Clear, who now admits he started put them on the take back in 1995.

But this scandal has been different in public perception. The administration of justice for the lawbreakers is playing out in courtrooms bereft of media representation that is necessary to fulfill the public's right to know. No video of perp walks. No courtroom sketches from the hearings. No on-site access to the prosecutors and attorneys.

US Attorney Alex Uballez has carried the ball for the prosecution with some media interviews but the lack of coverage of the offenders before the arraignments and in the courtroom is glaring and could be viewed as unfair favoritism toward law enforcement.

Such was not the case in other epic scandals that rocked the state, including those involving former state Senator Manny Aragon, two state treasurers caught up in a scandal back in the day. And what about APD itself? They bent over backwards to march their major suspects before the media and public.

Media sources say they have not been informed of the times of the plea hearings of the convicted officers nor of those for defense attorney Tom Clear and his right hand man Rick Mendez where they admitted tier corruption. US Attorney Uballez, they say, told one media outlet that "he would look into it."

He should or else it appears the disgraced public servants are getting an intentional break from the shame they brought on themselves, the city and their honest colleagues. 

BIZARRE INTERVIEW

Sheriff Allen

What to make of that bizarre interview of Bernalillo County Sheriff John Allen where he lashes out at the federal prosecutors for not "communicating" with him about the scandal as one of his deputies is implicated? Take a look:

Everyone always talks about relationships and they do it on the feds side. And I take their classes. Um, they might want to take a little taste of their own medicine. Communication is very key.

Shouldn't the chief law enforcement officer of the state's largest county be openly condemning the corruption and urging their federal partners onward instead of fretting about their hurt pride because they are not being kept in the loop? Why would the Feds tell Allen or APD anything when their agencies are the very agencies where the DWI corruption was apparently covered up for decades?

And Allen's disclosure that defense attorney Tom Clear's right arm in the corruption caper, Rick Mendez, gave Allen campaign contributions is a flag more red than the sweaters worn at UNM's homecoming.

Allen's disclosure prompts the need for a complete review of all campaign contributions (including fund-raisers) given by Clear and Mendez for law enforcement and judicial figures. 

Meanwhile, can we at least get Journal cartoonist Trevor into the courtroom for the cop arraignments?  This scandal with the tentacles of an octopus is at the point where some comic relief is in order. 

BACK TO THE FUTURE 

ABQ Federal Court

It was a stunning date drop from defense attorney Tom Clear that did not get much notice. The now convicted felon admitted in his plea bargain that he began the DWI bribery scheme in 1995. 

Stunning to the public at large but not to our blog readers. This January 2024 entry is from one of our Legal Beagles at the outset of the scandal:

Joe, Tom Clear has provided entertainment, food, and drink for ABQ police officers at his home in Tanoan for years. This entertainment was not, to my knowledge, on a strictly quid pro quo basis, but it does not seem to be a coincidence that in, primarily metro court cases, a coterie of officers would fail to show for interviews, trials, and pretrial proceedings when Mr. Clear was on a case. The idea that this is only a decade-long case of corruption is laughable. I first heard of Clear’s shenanigans almost 30 years ago. There are several now retired stars of the APD who were complicit at some level over the years. 

1995. That's when "Dumb and Dumber" was the #1 movie at the box office. How appropriate because that's how those who betrayed their public trust treated the city. They got away with it all these years. 

Until now.  

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With a notable exception the state's congressional delegation has endorsed Deb Haaland for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination and the primary isn't until June 2026. 

Her campaign is now rolling out legislative endorsements and reports she has already raised over $1 million. 

They obviously are working feverishly to keep this a single candidate primary as was the case with Bill Richardson in 2002 and Diane Denish in 2010.

Senator Martin Heinrich is the lone hold out in the DC delegation, refusing to endorse Haaland who only announced her candidacy Feb. 11. 

(He also refused to endorse progressive ABQ Rep. Melanie Stansbury for a House committee leadership post as we explored Dec. 16.)

Heinrich decided against his own Guv run Jan. 24. He passed on a Haaland endorsement when he backed out and still wasn't on board when the Haaland camp promoted the delegation endorsements Friday. 

When asked by POLITICO's E&E News whether an endorsement will be forthcoming, Heinrich replied:

If I do (endorse), I’ll let you know.

That's understandable. 

First, Heinrich's flirtation with a Guv candidacy did not end well, with Haaland appearing to push him out. That also happened when President Biden passed him over for Secretary of Interior and chose Haaland. 

After that, this is no time to bend the knee. 

Heinrich and Haaland

Also, if Haaland does get elected Heinrich will remain the state's senior senator with enormous influence over legislation impacting the state. He will not and should not give his blessing to Haaland until he is good and ready.

Second, Haaland has shown herself more than capable of making mistakes (e.g. her bungled appearances before congressional committees as Sec. of Interior). There is concern that any missteps by her or polling that doesn't live up to expectations could draw a foe or two with some heft.

Heinrich is going to give her plenty of rope to play with and if the unexpected should happen and she trips, his options remain open. 

There is plenty of irony to Heinrich's decision not to endorse. His campaign finance team even picked up on our well-known nickname of him as the "First Endorser" because of his penchant for endorsing candidates in contested Democratic primaries with no regard for the divisiveness that can result. 

However, he was re-elected to a third term by a considerable margin so those primary endorsements did not seem to impact his standing among Democrats.

SAM TOWN

Sam Bregman

Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman is most frequently mentioned as a possible Haaland primary challenger but as a semi-conservative with more past political baggage than American Tourister, he is not seen as a major threat to Haaland. 

Bregman's fortunes could also be getting dragged down by his lobbying for a package of juvenile crime bills that are currently being shunned at the Roundhouse. 

Still, Bregman is a champion publicity hound. If he got in, the race could quickly go from sleeper to best-seller. Anti-Haaland Dems would at least have a vehicle for their dissent and the public would get a contrast of ideas.

Bregman's office deflected a question about running, but did not rule it out:

Right now, I am focused on fighting crime and working with legislators to pass good crime legislation for the safety of New Mexicans.

Bregman's son, famed baseball star Alex Bregman, just signed a $120 million three year contract with the Boston Red Sox. Not that Dad needs a campaign loan but. . . 

FOLLOW THE MONEY

Another note on campaign cash from a Dem consultant who writes: 

Joe, the Haaland campaign announced that just one day after launching she raised $686,323 from 13,394 unique donations. This includes donations from every county in New Mexico totaling $232,625 from more than 2,500 donations. However, there's another way to look at that--only 18% of the donors were in-state and only 34% of the contributions came from NM. The good news is she has a national following but a primary opponent could make hay over the disparity between her homegrown support and that from out-of-state.  

CORONATION OR ELECTION?

So here we are with a November election that revealed some Dem weariness with progressives, Senator Heinrich holding out on an Haaland endorsement, Bregman still hovering and a desire by the public to hear policy specifics from Haaland who has been conspicuously quiet on them.

No-one is yet standing on the railroad tracks to stop the Deb Haaland train. She is the obvious front-runner. The question is whether the primary will be something resembling a coronation instead of an election.

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A sea of discontent. That's what Deb Haaland landed in when she announced her '26 run for the Dem Governor nomination this week. Our observers were a bit taken aback by the extent of the scorching she received on the socials and even in some Dem quarters. But these are not settled times. And her confidants remain confident the rabid hits will not diminish her appeal with Democratic base voters.

Her campaign may have momentarily quieted the critics with the announcement of an ample fund-raising haul since she started her run Tuesday:

The Deb Haaland for New Mexico campaign announced that just one day after launching, she has raised $686,323 from 13,394 unique donations. This includes donations from every county in New Mexico totaling $232,625 in more than 2,500 donations. 

A couple of million for a Dem primary is considerable so Haaland has lived up to her notices that she will be a prodigious fund-raiser and keeps her front-runner status.  

REACTION CENTRAL

Now reaction to the Haaland bid. First from a Senior Alligator at the Roundhouse revealing some dissension in Democratic ranks:

Here we go again. Democrats don’t learn their lesson. They’re marching toward another disaster a la Kamala Harris. Haaland may have a beautiful personal narrative, but very light on substance. She’s been at the right place at the right time. That’s it. Her prior electoral wins came with a universe made up of hardcore Dem party insiders, not regular voters. The next election is way too important to give her a pass. As a longtime Democratic, rural, Hispanic voter, I hope to see a competitive primary. What was supposed to be her kickoff interview on KRQE was cringe worthy. She’s not articulate and can’t deliver a solid message.

We did not find her TV interview "cringeworthy" but she did raise numerous red flags when asked how she would handle things differently than the current Democratic administration:

I feel very confident that by listening to New Mexicans and listening to their ideas and everyone working together to find the solutions, that we can find the solutions. I know people want quick fixes all the time. Sometimes that's not possible. 

There were hints of a Kamala Harris word salad there but "cringeworthy"may be a reach.

What is more concerning is her declaration that the electorate should not be expecting "quick fixes." That's not answering how she would do things differently or signaling in any way a more forceful attack on the generational problems facing the state. In fact, it sounds very status quo. That could be a political problem.

ENDORSERS 

Emily's List came with a robust endorsement of Haaland: 

We’re thrilled to endorse @DebHaalandNM to be New Mexico’s next governor. Deb has a proven track record of fighting for her constituents. She has broken barriers throughout her career and we are honored to continue to support her in this election! 

Patricia Kurz added this on social media:

What New Mexico has been waiting for, for a long time. Well done dear Secretary, we are so proud of you! 

ANOTHER GOP VIEW

Bob Cornelius

Longtime NM and Texas GOP consultant Bob Cornelius weighed in: 

In sports, when you’re near last in all the good columns and near first in all the bad columns statistically, you find a new coach. New Mexico has that opportunity to find a new coach or in this case a new Governor. Unfortunately, although Deb Haaland would be a new coach, she’s running the same old tired plays that got New Mexico where it is today. 

“Fierce” isn’t a game plan. It’s hyperbole. Fierce doesn’t solve crime. Fierce doesn’t create jobs. Fierce doesn’t secure the border or stop the fentanyl crisis. Fierce doesn’t fix CYFD. New Mexico needs a new leader, with a new vision and new ideas willing to solve problems. The search continues. . . 

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Haaland video

Deb Haaland began her long march for the 2026 Democratic gubernatorial nomination emphasizing her storied heritage, service as Secretary of Interior, kitchen table issues and with a noticeable absence of the progressive ideology that catapulted her onto the national stage. (News release here. Video here.)

Her campaign underlined this statement from her announcement video: 

Lowering costs, making rent and housing affordable, strengthening our schools, and preventing crimes so that you feel safe raising a family here. The solutions are there if we are fierce enough to choose them.

Gone were any references to climate change, transgender rights, a woman's right to choose, threats to Democracy or other issues that appeared to cost Democrats votes in the November election particularly among Hispanic northern Democrats. 

Still, her "fierce" slogan that has been with her since her political start is back and apparently tests well with voters. The campaign also calls her "a governor who will change the game for New Mexico. 

The candidate will begin a 19 stop statewide tour Thursday but much of time this year is expected to be occupied by fund-raising. 

Her video was well-produced and the script, as you might expect, stuck to the generic and positive. But when she cited the litany of generational woes afflicting the state it raised the question of just what would be different about her approach if elected: 

Crime, poverty, homelessness, addiction. They will keep pulling us down if we do the same things and expect a different result.

Details on how Haaland, 64, intends to lead the state through that list of woes will be closely watched. Is there truly something different about her candidacy, aside from its historic nature, or will it be a blueprint of the MLG years that nibbled around the edges?

THE SHIFT

Sam Bregman

Haaland's shift to the center is a luxury she can afford. Her path to the nomination is uncluttered by any opponents in the early going and she can pursue a big tent message that has appeal in both the primary and general elections.

Centrist Democrat and Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman is making noise about a run and depending on how that develops could keep Haaland in check when it comes to her attachment to the progressives who launched her career. In 2018 they gave her a resounding win over moderate Democrat Damon Martinez and others for the Dem nomination for the ABQ congressional seat. 

Those votes are probably secure with no need to shout her affinity from the rooftops. Her challenge will be to walk the tightrope between the Left and the Center with an uncertain political climate created by the Trump presidency. 

That's where her appeal as possibly the first Native American female governor in US history comes in as does a calm, nonthreatening demeanor and a personality that has proven voter-friendly.

In some respects it reminds us of former Dem US Senator Jeff Bingaman (1983-2013)who had one of the most liberal voting records in the senate but his personal appeal and low-key approach triumphed over divisions. He had a 30 year run.

Haaland paraded with AOC and company during the peak of progressive politics on the Hill but she had to pull it back when moderate President Biden put her in the cabinet. The change served her well.

GOP STRIKES

Republicans are keenly aware of Haaland's vulnerability on the woke front. They came with this hit from GOP Chair Amy Barela:

Deb Haaland represents more of the same, but worse for New Mexico. . .She had one of the most liberal voting records in Congress and consistently peddled the same failed, progressive ideas that have produced nothing for New Mexicans. As Secretary of the Interior, she made it her mission to target New Mexico's number one industry—oil and gas—impacting the livelihoods of many Navajo allottees. . .She . . . consistently could not answer basic questions about her job. . .Another Democrat in the Governor's Mansion spells disaster: more jobs gone, crime on the rise, endless failures, and New Mexicans left in the dust—again. A Republican governor is the change our state needs, someone who will finally put New Mexicans first. 

That dig about Haaland being able to answer questions is another soft spot. Her less than successful appearances before congressional committees as Interior boss is likely to be a focus of her GOP foes. Conservative critics are already calling into question her intellectual abilities.  

THE GHOST 

The ghost of former Republican Governor Susana Martinez also lurks in the Haaland candidacy. She was the nation's first Hispanic female Governor. She charmed her way into office on a thin record as a District Attorney and a relatable campaign personality that had Hispanic Democrats abandoning their party in droves. Unfortunately, Martinez presided over a mostly failed eight years.

For Haaland, the record is not thin--a former state Democratic party chair, a congresswoman and Secretary of Interior. She has been able to bring people together. The question is whether she can transcend her symbolism and also be an agent of change? Does she want to? Her long campaign march could tell the tale. 

HOLGUIN ANALYSIS

Longtime Dem consultant Neri Holguin came with this analysis of the Haaland run: 

Among the Democratic base, she’s beloved and well known across the state. It’s also hard to imagine who else will be able to compete with her ability to fund-raise nationally and locally.

Scott Forrester. another veteran Dem consultant and recently Chief of Staff for ABQ US Rep. Melanie Stansbury is Haaland's campaign manager. 

THE BOTTOM LINES

We had a heavily caffeinated conversation with Sanra Fe radio host Richard Eeds Tuesday in which we talked about Haaland's candidacy the legislature and more La Politica. . .

On the Monday blog a quote from a TV news report incorrectly stated that APD Chief Harold Medina began his tenure in 2022. Here is the correct time line: Medina was named interim Chief of Police in September 2020, and appointed by Mayor Keller to serve as permanent Chief of Police in March 2021.

This is the Home of New Mexico Politics.