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New Drought Research, National Lobbyists’ Impact on Gun Culture & New Ballot Initiative on Education Funding


On this episode of New Mexico in Focus the podcast, host Lou DiVizio recaps the headlines impacting New Mexicans at the start of the week. 

Gene Grant conducts a conversation on new drought research showing evidence that drought feeds heat, and vice versa. The panel explores the implications this may have for New Mexico and the southwest as a whole. 

Our Land Executive Producer Laura Paskus talks with a New Mexico sportsman and gun owner about the influence national lobbying groups have on the conversation surrounding gun ownership and gun rights. 

And, Gene and the panel parse through a new ballot initiative that would divert more money from the land grant permanent fund to education. 

Host: Lou DiVizio

The Line Host: Gene Grant

The Line Opinion Panel:
Merritt Allen, Vox Optima Public Relations
Sophie Martin, attorney
Michael Bird, public health consultant

Guest: Garrett VeneKlasen, New Mexico hunter, gun owner

For More Information:

New Study Shows How Drought Led to Deadly Temperatures in 2021 – NM Political Report

Critics: U.S. Supreme Court Ruling on EPA Huge Blow for Climate – NM Political Report

Gun Owners Must Speak Up – Santa Fe New Mexican

How the NRA’s Creed Defines America’s Gun Debate – WBUR

Push to Tap NM Land Grant Permanent Fund for Education – Source NM

NM School Trust Feels Pressure, Voters Weigh Changes – KOB