In a surprising turn of events, Manuel Gonzales, the former sheriff of New Mexico’s most populous county, has announced his decision to switch political parties and compete for a seat in the U.S. Senate. Gonzales, a lifelong Democrat, cited the party’s shift to the “far left” on issues that matter to him as the reason behind his decision. He believes that the Democratic Party’s ideologies towards families and law and order no longer align with his own.
Gonzales gained national recognition for his refusal to enforce stay-at-home orders during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has now chosen to run as a Republican, believing that it will provide him with more opportunities to pick up support in the race and bring positive changes to the state of New Mexico.
From tackling inflation to addressing crime, Gonzales aims to take a hands-on approach to the issues that have hindered progress in the state. He plans to prioritize fighting for jobs in New Mexico and focus on energy initiatives and resources that the state has to offer. Gonzales, whose career in law enforcement spans nearly 30 years, recognizes that officers in New Mexico don’t feel supported and advocates for qualified immunity for them.
As a newcomer to the Republican Party, Gonzales also highlights his ability to work across the aisle and collaborate with both sides to get things done. He criticizes the current administration and the incumbent Democratic Senator Martin Heinrich, accusing them of complacency and ineffectiveness. Gonzales aims to challenge Heinrich in the upcoming election and believes that it’s time for change in the state.
Gonzales has faced opposition from elected Democrats in the state due to his visit to meet with then-President Donald Trump and then-Attorney General William Barr in 2020. However, he remains committed to serving the people and not a party. He emphasizes that his decisions are driven by the best interests of his constituents and that politics do not influence his actions.
Despite a federal indictment filed against Gonzales and former Laguna Police Chief Rudy Mora accusing them of participating in an illegal weapons scheme, Gonzales maintains his innocence and believes that he will be exonerated. He describes the case as politically motivated and expresses confidence in his adherence to the law.
The primary election for the U.S. Senate seat is scheduled for June 4, 2024, with the general election taking place on November 4, 2024. Gonzales’s decision to switch parties and run for office has sparked intrigue and speculation in the political landscape. As the campaign trail unfolds, updates on Gonzales’s progress and exclusive interviews will be covered by Kyle Morris, who reports on politics for . Readers can stay informed by subscribing to the newsletter or following @RealKyleMorris on Twitter.
