PACs Dumping Money Into NM Legislative Races

Political action committees are spending millions of dollars on a variety of competitive races in New Mexico, as legislative elections in the state take on increased importance, according to the Santa Fe New Mexican.

 

For example, Reform New Mexico Now, a conservative PAC linked to Republican Gov. Susana Martinez, spent $1.4 million on legislative races over the past month, while the Democrat-leaning Patriot Majority New Mexico spent $1.3 million over the same period.

 

Democrats control both houses of the state legislature, with a 36-33 advantage in the House and a 24-18 majority in the Senate.

 

Republicans believe this election year provides them with the opportunity to secure a majority in the House for the first time in almost 60 years.

 

Their efforts are being aided by big outside contributors, including billionaire and Las Vegas casino owner Sheldon Adelson, who have been supporting Mitt Romney's presidential bid and GOP candidates for Congress. Adelson gave $200,000 to Reform New Mexico Now, according to the New Mexican.