California Journal of Politics and Policy

Though presidential politics and demographic trends show New Mexico turning a deeper shade of blue, its Democratic Legislature and Republican Governor danced to the political and fiscal center in the 2013 legislative session. They advanced similar budgets and focused on similar policy areas while continuing to disagree on longstanding political fights. Whether it was tighter party ratios in the state senate or a governor with an eye toward reelection, the 2013 legislative session was less acrimonious and more accomplished than many a recent session. This paper exams the political and economic landscape of New Mexico in 2013. First it will address the legislative and political changes brought about by the 2012 general election. Then, it will provide an overview of the more important legislative issues considered by the New Mexico Legislature. Finally, it will consider the legislature’s annual effort to pass a comprehensive state budget for the fiscal year beginning on July 1, 1013.