December 27, 2019 – Gene Grant and a special all-journalist Line panel continue our countdown of the top stories of 2019, based on impact and amount of time spent discussing it throughout the year. Coming in at number 8 on our list is the emergence of chemical contamination in groundwater near two New Mexico Air Force Bases. The harmful chemical is known as “PFAS” and it’s been linked to an increase in cancer risk, though the extent of its harmfulness isn’t fully known. Next up, the 7th biggest story of 2019: the ramp up of the 2020 U.S. Census. The once-a-decade population count dictates everything from funding for federal programs to representation in congress. And here in New Mexico, there is already real concern about an undercount.

Line Panelists:
Gwyneth Doland, adjunct professor, UNM Communication & Journalism Dept.
Andy Lyman, reporter, New Mexico Political Report
Jessica Onsurez, news director, Carlsbad Current Argus
Steve Terrell, retired reporter, Santa Fe New Mexican

For More Information:
‘Everyone is Watching New Mexico’: Update Shows No Progress on PFAS Clean Up – New Mexico Political Report

New Mexico Could Lose Billions in Federal Funds if Census Population Undercounted – Ruidoso News

State Should Increase Census Spending – The Albuquerque Journal