The Chile Wire

In this week’s episode of the Chile Wire, we sit down with House District 53 candidate Ben Luna to talk about the story behind his campaign and what’s driving his run for office.Ben shares his personal background, the experiences that shaped his values, and the path that led him to step into the political arena. Representing the community of Chaparral, New Mexico, he discusses the unique challenges facing the district and why he believes now is the time to bring new leadership and a strong voice to Santa Fe.We also dive into his priorities, what he hopes to accomplish if elected, and how he plans to advocate for the people of District 53. From local concerns to broader policy goals, Ben lays out his vision for better representing and delivering results for his community.Tune in for a candid conversation about leadership, service, and the future of Chaparral.

This week on The Chile Wire, host Abenicio Baldonado sits down with Ndidiamaka “Didi” Okpareke, a pharmacist, small business owner, mother, wife, and Republican candidate for New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District.In an era where many feel the "American Dream" is slipping away, Didi’s story serves as a powerful reminder of what is possible through faith, hard work, and a commitment to community. A graduate of Sandia High School and the UNM College of Pharmacy, Didi isn't just a candidate—she’s a mother and a local entrepreneur who sees firsthand the challenges facing New Mexico families.In this episode, we dive deep into: • Who is Didi? We go beyond the campaign trail to learn about her roots, her journey as a healthcare professional, and the values that guide her. • Family & Community: Didi discusses why her role as a "mom on a mission" is the driving force behind her run for Congress and how we can restore the foundations of our local communities. • The American Dream: Hear Didi’s inspirational perspective on why New Mexico is still the "Jewel of the Southwest" and what it will take to ensure the next generation has the opportunity to thrive here. • A New Trajectory: From tackling the healthcare provider shortage to improving our education system and public safety, Didi shares her vision for a stronger, more prosperous New Mexico.Whether you’re concerned about the future of our state’s economy or looking for a leader who understands the daily realities of New Mexicans, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.Visit Didi's website:https://www.didiforcongress.com/

New Mexico has become the Wild West of medical procedures for minors—and parents are being systematically locked out of the room.This week on The Chile Wire, Abe sits down with Jodi Hendricks, Executive Director of New Mexico Family Action Movement, to pull back the curtain on a few bombshell investigations that should send a shiver down every parent's spine.We are diving deep into the dark reality of how New Mexico’s current laws allow minors from across the country to access life-altering abortion and gender-affirming care with zero parental notification or consent. While Santa Fe politicians tout these policies as "progress," the investigation reveals a much more sinister landscape: a system that effectively creates a safe-haven for predators and a conduit for human trafficking.In this episode, we discuss:The Investigation: The shocking findings that show how easy it is for out-of-state minors to be funneled into New Mexico for procedures without a single phone call home.Parents in the Dark: How the state is actively stripping away parental rights, leaving families powerless during the most personal and permanent decisions a child can make.The Human Cost: The lifelong physical and emotional impacts these rushed, un-vetted decisions have on minors.The Accountability Gap: Why are the entities facilitating these procedures not asking more questions? Are they providing care, or are they providing cover for those who mean children harm?New Mexico is being marketed as a "sanctuary," but for whom? Join us as we expose the loopholes that are putting vulnerable children at risk and leaving parents as the last to know.Podcast Resources-New Mexico Sentinel Investigation:https://www.nmsentinel.com/2026/03/12/undercover-video-shows-how-new-mexico-clinic-helps-texans-circumvent-abortion-ban-even-for-underage-pregnant-teens/Townhall Media Investigation:https://townhall.com/tipsheet/kyleolson/2026/03/10/drag-queen-staffs-school-clinic-explains-rebranding-of-gender-affirming-care-to-avoid-federal-scrutiny-n2672551Universal Childcare Study:https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2025/11/05/universal-child-care-can-harm-children

This week on the Chile Wire, we sit down with Senator David Gallegos to discuss his recent candidacy for Lieutenant Governor of New Mexico and what’s driving his campaign.Senator Gallegos shares the story behind his commitment to public service, the values that have shaped his leadership, and the priorities he believes are critical to moving our state forward. From strengthening public safety and supporting small businesses to protecting families and expanding economic opportunity, he lays out a clear vision for New Mexico’s future.Tune in for an in-depth conversation on his background, his motivation to run, and what he hopes to accomplish if elected as New Mexico’s next Lieutenant Governor.

In a state where rural values often clash with Santa Fe's legislative agenda, few voices are as clear and consistent as Senator Crystal Brantley. This week, we sit down with Senator Brantley for a candid look at the high-stakes battles unfolding at the Roundhouse. From the defense of constitutional rights to the protection of our state’s economic backbone, we’re diving into the issues that matter most to real New Mexicans.This week, we discuss a plethora of topics, such as:Protecting the 2nd Amendment (SB17): Senator Brantley breaks down the "Stop Illegal Gun Trade and Extremely Dangerous Weapons Act." We discuss why this bill is seen as an unconstitutional overreach, targeting law-abiding sportsmen and small business owners while failing to address the root causes of crime.The War on NM’s Economy: New Mexico’s farmers, ranchers, and energy workers are the lifeblood of our state. We explore the fight against extreme environmental regulations that threaten to stifle growth and burden the families who have stewarded this land for generations.SNAP Accountability: Restoring faith in government starts with oversight. Senator Brantley discusses her push for an expanded audit and guardrails of the state’s SNAP program to cut out waste, fraud, and abuse—ensuring that every dollar intended for those in need actually reaches their plates.Whether you're concerned about your right to bear arms, the future of your family ranch, or how your tax dollars are being managed, this episode provides the "inside the Roundhouse" perspective you won't get from the mainstream media. Senator Brantley brings her vast experience and leadership to show how we can build a stronger, more accountable New Mexico.

Inside the Roundhouse with Rep. Rod Montoya- what truly matters to New Mexicans when the cameras are off and the floor sessions end? This week, we’re joined by State Representative Rod Montoya to discuss the current legislative session and discuss the real priorities of his constituents.Rep. Montoya doesn’t hold back as he breaks down the critical issues facing New Mexico families today—from the economy and public safety to the local impact of major policy shifts. As the session heats up, he shares essential insights into what New Mexicans need to be watching and why your voice in the legislative process is more important than ever.

This week on Chile Wire, we sit down with House Minority Leader Gail Armstrong for a candid conversation on the House Republicans’ top priorities heading into the 2026 legislative session. Leader Armstrong breaks down the major issues expected to dominate the session and highlights several key pieces of legislation that could set New Mexico further behind—hindering businesses and threatening long-term economic growth. Tune in for this insider preview on what’s ahead at the Roundhouse and what it means for the future of our state.

🎙️ This Week on the Chile Wire Podcast, we’re joined by Jamie Gonzales of Public Charter Schools of New Mexico for an inside look at the top priorities for charter schools heading into the 2026 legislative session. Jamie also highlights standout charter schools across the state that are raising the bar for student outcomes and innovation.🎧 Tune in to learn more about the critical issues impacting charter schools and why they matter for students and families across New Mexico.

In this episode of The Chile Wire, host Abenicio Baldonado sits down with Dr. Nathaniel Roybal, a native New Mexican and specialist in treating complex retinal disease, for an important conversation on the state of healthcare in New Mexico. Dr. Roybal shares his mission to see New Mexico be a state that provides timely, high quality care to patients across the state—and why that goal has become increasingly difficult to achieve.Together, they examine New Mexico’s growing healthcare crisis, unpacking how we got here and why being a small state should never mean settling for subpar care. The discussion breaks down the real-world impact of policies like HB27, passed in 2021, and how changes to punitive damages have altered the landscape for physicians, contributing to a worsening doctor shortage and longer wait times for patients.Dr. Roybal also offers insight into why doctors are leaving New Mexico, the challenges providers face on the front lines, and what must change if we want to restore access to quality healthcare for families and communities across the state.Tune in for a candid, informative discussion that highlights what’s at stake—and why New Mexico deserves a healthcare system that works for both patients and providers.

In this episode of The Chile Wire, host Abenicio Baldonado sits down with Michael and Kimberly Perry for a wide-ranging conversation about the future of New Mexico’s land, resources, and communities. Michael Perry, a former Assistant Commissioner of State Lands, longtime wildlife and habitat professional, and current County Commissioner, brings decades of front-line experience to the discussion as he shares his perspective on the mission and responsibilities of the State Land Office.Together, these three dive into the challenges and opportunities shaping New Mexico’s landscape today—from wildfire prevention and habitat restoration to the evolving balance between agriculture, energy production, and conservation. The conversation also explores green energy development, the vital role of oil and gas in our state’s economy, and why these issues deserve thoughtful, practical dialogue rather than political division.Grounded in real-world experience and a shared commitment to stewardship, this episode offers an in-depth look at what it means to leave New Mexico better than we found it. Tune in for insight, context, and a meaningful discussion about the future of our land and the people who rely on it.Check out Michael's website: https://perry4nmland.com/Instagram: @michaeljackkperry

This week on the Chile Wire, host Abenicio Baldonado sits down with David From, Regional Vice President for Americans for Prosperity and host of the American Potential podcast. Together, we dig into what it looks like to advance prosperity in two of the nation’s so-called deep blue states, Illinois and New Mexico, and explore the unique challenges and opportunities that come with driving policy change in these political environments.From grassroots momentum to transformative reform efforts, we compare and contrast the political landscapes of both states, highlighting where meaningful change is already happening and where the next big wins for taxpayers, families, and job creators could emerge. David brings valuable insights from his work across the region, offering a forward-looking conversation on how states like ours can truly thrive and prosper when real solutions and community-driven leadership come together.Tune in for an informative discussion that sheds light on the real potential for prosperity—even when it seems impossible.

In this episode of the Chile Wire, host Abenicio Baldonado sits down with Sarah Hetemi, State Director for Americans for Prosperity–New Mexico (AFP-NM), for a forward-looking conversation about New Mexico’s present and future.Sarah shares AFP-NM’s priorities and vision for a state where opportunity thrives, families prosper, and bureaucratic barriers to growth are removed. Together, we break down what’s holding New Mexico back from reaching its full potential and discuss how common sense solutions can put our state on a stronger path.We also dive into the positive impacts of the One Big Beautiful Bill, exploring how it empowers New Mexico taxpayers, encourages economic freedom, and opens doors for long-term prosperity. Sarah highlights AFP-NM’s statewide Protect Prosperity & Defend Taxpayers Tour, aimed at engaging communities, educating residents, and building momentum for a more prosperous New Mexico.Tune in for insight, inspiration, and a clear look at the opportunities waiting for New Mexico, should we choose to let prosperity win.

In this deeply moving episode of The Chile Wire, we sit down with Sam and Raul Vigil, who share their family’s heartbreaking story of loss and resilience. Sam’s wife and Raul’s mother, Jacqueline Vigil, was tragically murdered outside her Albuquerque home—a loss that shook their family and community to its core.The Vigils open up about their painful journey for justice and how local policies, including Albuquerque’s sanctuary city stance, have allowed repeat offenders to remain on our streets. They reflect on how President Trump’s administration stepped in, deploying federal resources that ultimately led to the arrest and conviction of Jacqueline’s killer.Through their story, Sam and Raul deliver a powerful message about the urgent need for accountability within New Mexico’s justice system. They speak not only from grief, but from hope—encouraging others who have suffered at the hands of crime to come together, raise their voices, and advocate for change that protects families and restores safety to our communities.This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the human cost of failed policies—and the strength it takes to turn tragedy into purpose.

In this episode of The Chile Wire, we sit down with Megan Rosker, Director of Admissions and Outreach at the May Center for Learning, to explore the organization’s powerful mission to ensure every child in New Mexico has the opportunity to read, learn, and thrive. Megan shares how the May Center is leading the way in addressing literacy challenges across our state—by providing specialized support for students with dyslexia and other neurodivergent learning profiles, and by training teachers to recognize and meet the needs of all learners.From reshaping classroom instruction to advocating for early intervention and teacher empowerment, this conversation shines a light on what it takes to build a high-quality and effective education system in New Mexico.🎧 Tune in to learn how the May Center is transforming the future of literacy—one student, one teacher, and one community at a time.

In this week’s episode of The Chile Wire, we sit down with Keon Ahghar to unpack the truth behind New Mexico’s medical malpractice crisis — and how it’s putting patients’ access to high-quality healthcare at risk.We also breakdown the policy failures that have opened the door for out-of-state trial lawyers to swoop in, file massive lawsuits, and walk away with millions — all while our doctors, hospitals, and patients pay the price. It’s a feeding frenzy that’s bleeding our healthcare system and pushing providers out of New Mexico.Tune in to hear how we got here, what’s really driving the crisis, and what needs to change to protect patients, not profiteers.

This week on The Chile Wire, we sit down with Rudy Mora — former New Mexico State Police officer, current Director of Public Safety for the Pueblo of Acoma, and board member for SafeNM — to talk about one of our state’s biggest challenges: crime. Rudy shares what he’s seen on the front lines of law enforcement and offers an unfiltered look at the issues plaguing our communities across New Mexico.🎙️ Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation — it’s one every New Mexican needs to hear.Listener discretion is advised. This episode includes discussion of violent crimes and sexual assault that may be disturbing to some listeners.

💧 Episode 13 of the Chile Wire is here, and it’s all about one of New Mexico’s most valuable resources — water. We sit down with Jennifer Bradfute and Matthias Sayer of the newly formed WATR Alliance to dive into how New Mexico can lead the nation in recycling produced water, turning a challenge into an opportunity. From innovation to conservation, learn how this initiative could help preserve our fresh water while fueling economic growth. Tune in and discover why the future of water in New Mexico might just be brighter than we think.

This week we sit down with Don and Damara Andrade, who are sounding the alarm on explicit books circulating in our public schools. 📚 Listen in as we learn more about how parents across New Mexico are joining the movement, demanding that schools provide age-appropriate, high-quality educational content. 👉 This isn’t about book banning—it’s about common sense and ensuring students are protected and prepared for the future. Tune in, join the conversation, and be part of the growing momentum for New Mexico’s students and families. See their guide, 125+ Explicit Books in Albuquerque Public Schools, at the following link: https://thehitchedapologists.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/APS-School-Library-of-Explicit-Books-Donate-Edit.pdf You must see it to believe it. 👀

This week on The Chile Wire, we tackle three of the spiciest stories from last week. First, New Mexico is facing a moral crisis: child fatalities tied to an under resourced CYFD continue to rise—how did we get here, and who will take responsibility? Next, the redistricting of Texas causes tensions to rise and raises accusations of power grabs. Finally, we pull back the curtain on an event being hosted by The Democratic Party of New Mexico— and the three guests they have invited to speak at the event in September. Let's just say, some of these guest speakers' comments are downright SHOCKING. From heartbreaking truths to political bombshells, this episode connects the dots on the issues that matter—and the ones they hope you won’t notice.

Join us as we discuss what it's like being a parent in 2025 with Andrea Cloak who is currently raising a one year old daughter in New Mexico. This episode turns out to be a doozy as we learn what types of books are circulating in our public libraries. Andrea shares with us a book that was pointed out to her by a friend who made a recent visit to one of our public libraries. This episode contains graphic content and details regarding this book, viewer discretion is advised.

In episode 8 of The Chile Wire, we sit down with Española City Councilor Sam LeDoux to talk about the serious allegations facing the mayor of Espanola, NM, and the broader implications for transparency and accountability in New Mexico. Join us as we dig into why fighting corruption at every level of government matters more than ever.

This week on The Chile Wire, we’re turning up the heat with some of the most outrageous headlines in New Mexico politics. We dive into the explosive allegations facing the mayor of Española—corruption, misconduct, and a town demanding answers. Then, we unravel the fallout from Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury’s eyebrow-raising poll blunder that has both sides of the aisle asking, “Who exactly was she listening to?” Finally, we spotlight a disturbing attempt to silence women celebrating the legacy of Title IX at Her Game, Her Legacy bus tour. It’s bold, it’s spicy, it’s the truth they don’t want you to hear. This is The Chile Wire.

This week on episode 6 of The Chile Wire, we’re diving into one of the most important conversations we can have during an upcoming election year—who’s fighting for New Mexico businesses, jobs, and families—and who’s failing us.Joining me is someone who’s been a tireless advocate for pro-business, pro-growth policies here in our state—Carla Sonntag, President and CEO of the New Mexico Business Coalition. Listen now as we breakdown who scored a passing grade and who didn't.

Join host, Abenicio Baldonado, in episode 5 of the Chile Wire with special guest, Paul Gessing, President of the Rio Grande Foundation. Listen as they breakdown the records and campaign finance reports of the current democratic gubernatorial candidates, and discuss the consequences of their potential governorship.

This week on episode 4 of the Chile Wire, Abenicio Baldonado breaks down New Mexico’s political landscape, highlighting one-party control since 1931 and its long-standing consequences. He explores why, despite decades of Democratic leadership, the state continues to rank near the bottom in key outcomes like crime, education, and economic opportunity. Plus, a critical look at the 2026 gubernatorial contenders—who claim to be moderates, but whose records tell a different story.

Chile Wire Host, Abenicio Baldonado sits down with New Mexico State Representative Rod Montoya to talk about issues in New Mexico that should be common sense. These two discuss how there is a lack of accountability for criminal offenses here in New Mexico and how women's sports and spaces should be protected. During the 2025 Legislative Session, there were several other bills proposed that seemed like common sense- yet they still ended up being killed in our roundhouse. Listen to this full conversation now!

Chile Wire Host, Abenicio Baldonado sits down and has a great conversation with State Representative Elaine Sena Cortez about the state of our New Mexico economy. These two dive into topics like income and social security taxes and the Paid Family and Medical Leave Act. Elaine Sena Cortez outlines her personal income tax bill and also her Silver Act that was just passed in New Mexico legislature last week.

Abe Baldonado, Chile Wire host, sits down with the Executive Director of New Mexico Family Action Movement, Jodi Hendricks. They discuss the major family issues currently present up in Santa Fe and why they are important. They talk through the bad bills that have been introduced since the start of the 2025 Legislative Session but also some of the really good pieces of legislation that have been making their way through the roundhouse.