Interview with New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on "Face the Nation"

Interview Summary

During an appearance on "Face the Nation," New Mexico's Governor, Michelle Lujan Grisham, addressed key issues impacting her state. The discussion, hosted by Ed O'Keefe, centered around potential shifts in Medicaid funding and border security concerns.

Medicaid Funding Concerns

Governor Lujan Grisham expressed alarm over Republican discussions in Washington regarding changes to Medicaid. With New Mexico having a significant portion of its population reliant on this program, the governor emphasized the potential dire consequences of federal cutbacks.

Acknowledging the state's high dependency on federal support for Medicaid, Grisham stressed the need to maintain these services. She warned that reductions could lead to hospital closures and increased costs for healthcare.

Impact on Healthcare Access

Grisham reflected on past legislative actions under Governor Martinez's administration, noting deep cuts in behavioral health services left long-lasting scars. She cautioned that history might repeat itself, leading to diminished healthcare access with devastating outcomes.

Call to Action

In response to potential Medicaid cutbacks, the governor urged citizens to contact their Congressional representatives. Highlighting the risk to maternal and infant health, Grisham portrayed any rollback of Medicaid as an issue resonating far beyond state borders.

Border Security and National Defense

O'Keefe shifted the conversation to the federal establishment of a national defense area along the New Mexico-Mexico border. Despite the military presence intended to curb illegal crossings, Grisham criticized the approach, arguing it disregarded due process and constitutional rights.

While acknowledging declining border crossing incidents, she underscored the need for comprehensive immigration policies, suggesting enhanced recruitment for Border Patrol and stabilization through refugee status opportunities.

Immigration Policy Concerns

Governor Grisham expressed discontent with ICE activities, which she said instilled fear in communities. Rather than increased military engagements, she advocated for legislative measures targeting organized crime and promoting overall public safety.

Conclusion

The interview closed with Grisham reiterating the need for swift Congressional action on border management and national security, critiquing current methods as ineffective and overly aggressive.