Press Release | The Referendum Project: June 24, 2024

Roswell, New Mexico

Boldness in the face of tyranny is how we see the Referendum Project today. This historical effort, that included over 45,000 New Mexicans, still has the heart to make a difference.

The journey started with the initial request filed with the Secretary of State on March 20, 2023, and although it officially ends on July 1, 2024, our resolve only strengthens. Each ending heralds a new beginning, and for New Mexico, the promise of impactful change looms on the horizon.

Signatures from every county affirm that all corners of our great state participated in this monumental effort. From the northern heights to the southern border, and from the eastern desert to the western expanse, we educated tens of thousands about the politics of Santa Fe.

The educational campaign was paralleled by a robust legal battle involving seven district courts cases aimed at challenging the Secretary of State’s overreach in designating laws supposedly for the preservation of public peace, health, and safety – a power not granted by our constitution. Although seasoned attorneys recognized the constitutional merit of our case, the courts have unfortunately refrained from hearing the merits.

In pursuit of a swift and consistent resolution, the group filed a Writ with the New Mexico Supreme Court August 6, 2023, (case no. S-1-SC-39992). The Supreme Court held the case in abeyance for nearly four months, only to vacate this abeyance in April 2024, ultimately denying our petition and relegating the case back to the district courts. This delay tactic denied timely due process, as decisions will now be made post the critical July 1 deadline, likely resulting in dismissal on grounds of mootness.

Even the federal courts have presented their own set of challenges, echoing the sentiment that systemic barriers often silence the people’s voice.

Our fight is far from over – it has only just begun. Our unwavering spirit, fueled by love and truth, emboldens us to persevere even in the face of insurmountable odds.

We extend heartfelt thanks to every individual who stood with us, signing and circulating petitions within their communities, workplaces, and places of worship.

We are grateful to the faith leaders, businesses, city councils, county commissioners, and organizations who championed the people’s constitutional right to a referendum. New Mexico is home to true heroes, and that is indeed a cause for celebration!

As we move forward, it is imperative that we hold accountable those who enacted these contentious laws. We call upon all New Mexicans to exercise their electoral power on November 5th. Together, let’s continue to defend our children, our families, our constitutional rights, and our state.

The fight for justice continues, and together, we will prevail.