U.S. Senator Tom Udall, Water Crisis in the West, Attorney General Gary King

This week on NEW MEXICO IN FOCUS, host Gene Grant continues his conversation with U.S. Senator Tom Udall with a discussion on climate change and water. Udall is supporting an executive order by President Barack Obama to cut carbon emissions by 30 percent by the year 2030. Udall called the proposal an opportunity to spur innovation and job creation, and tap what New Mexico does well, such as alternative energy.

NMiF Producer Megan Kamerick continues a series of conversations on the water crisis in the West, by speaking with rancher Sid Goodloe, farmer Stanley Crawford and Steve Harris, director of Rio Grande Restoration, about the challenges facing rural New Mexico and plans for building a diversion on the Gila River.

The Line opinion panel reviews the outcomes of the primaries around the state. After a five-way race, Attorney General Gary King will be the Democratic candidate facing Gov. Susana Martinez. A contentious race for State Treasurer saw Tim Eichenberg emerge as the winner. And many are watching key races to see if the Republicans can take control of the House this year.

The Line also delves into the economy in New Mexico in light of announcements about Chevron closing a mine and laying off 300 people, and Intel Corp. passing over the Rio Rancho plant for the next round of investment in the latest technology. The state continues to lag the country in job creation and tax revenue and this will likely be one of the top themes in this year’s gubernatorial campaign.

GUESTS:
Stanley Crawford, Owner, El Bosque Garlic Farm
Sid Goodloe, Owner, Carrizo Valley Ranch
Steve Harris, Director of Rio Grande Restoration
U.S. Senator Tom Udall

LINE GUEST PANELISTS
Martha Burk, National Council of Women’s Organizations
Dede Feldman, Former State Senator

LINE PANELISTS:
Dan Foley, Former House Minority Whip
Tom Garrity, The Garrity Group

CORRESPONDENT:
Megan Kamerick, NMiF Producer

HOST/COMMENTATOR:
Gene Grant

The Producer of NEW MEXICO IN FOCUS is Megan Kamerick. Associate Producer is Kathy Wimmer. Funding for this program was provided in part by the McCune Foundation.

Episode 749 for air June 6, 2014