A New Mexico district court judge has mandated that Amy Barela, the chairwoman of the Republican Party of New Mexico (RPNM), step down from her position. This decision comes in the wake of a lawsuit filed by fellow Republicans, just days before the state’s first semi-open primary election.
Allegations of Bylaw Violations
The lawsuit was initiated by three Republican candidates who are currently running for office in New Mexico. They claim that RPNM officers, including Barela, violated party bylaws, particularly those concerning conflicts of interest. One specific rule requires a party officer to resign immediately if they file for public office and face a Republican challenger in the primary. Barela, who is an Otero County commissioner seeking re-election, is indeed facing a Republican opponent in the upcoming primary.
The judge noted in the ruling that Barela’s position as party chair could give her a higher profile and potentially lend her greater party legitimacy than her challenger. Additionally, the court found that two other defendants, GOP National Committeeman and State Senator Jim Townsend, along with RPNM Treasurer Kimberly Skaggs, breached party rules by endorsing candidates in contested GOP races.
Compliance and Appeal
The court has ordered Barela to step down as party chair and has directed the defendants to refrain from publicly endorsing any Republican candidate who has a GOP opponent. This includes endorsements made through social media, email lists, mailers, or events.
RPNM Executive Director Leticia Muñoz stated that the party will comply with the judge’s order but plans to appeal the decision to a higher court. Muñoz emphasized that the Republican Party of New Mexico believes the order infringes on free speech rights under the First Amendment. However, the party will adhere to the order while it remains in effect and is actively pursuing an appeal.
Muñoz indicated that RPNM’s first chair would assume Barela’s responsibilities, although the identity of the first chair is not listed on the party’s website. Barela and her attorney have not responded to requests for comment.
Legal and Political Implications
The lawsuit was filed by GOP gubernatorial candidate Duke Rodriguez, Republican lieutenant governor candidate Aubrey Blair Dunn, and Otero County commissioner candidate Jonathan Emery, among others. Their attorney, Gary Mitchell, expressed his clients’ satisfaction with the ruling, highlighting the courage it took for them to challenge their own party to ensure adherence to its rules.
Political expert John Day remarked on the significance of the ruling, stating that it underscores the necessity for political parties to abide by their own regulations. The outcome of this legal battle may have broader implications for party governance and the enforcement of internal rules.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
