Accountability for New Mexico

New Mexico is experiencing a time of record oil and gas profits, boosting revenues from $1.45 billion in 2022 to $3.08 billion in 2024. This wealth has given the state the nation's second-largest sovereign wealth fund. Yet, despite government spending increasing from $7.5 billion to $9.6 billion, residents see no noticeable improvement in services. The common complaint is a profound lack of transparency in how the state legislature and municipalities spend this money.

When the Fourth Estate is weak, everyone is affected. Our taxpayer money can be wasted, our water poisoned, and access to healthcare limited. As the paper of record for nearly 150 years, The Albuquerque Journal has a proven history of forcing change. Our journalism led to reforms in child welfare and adult guardianship, and helped increase Medicaid reimbursements. Governor Michelle Lujan-Grisham praised our work, stating that our editorials were "dynamite" in raising awareness and passing legislation.

With crucial mayoral and gubernatorial elections approaching this year and next, focusing on issues like profligate spending and oil & gas history, our watchdog role must be strengthened.

We are seeking $200,000 per year for three years to fund at least two more investigative reporters, including their equipment, travel, and public showcases. Your tax-deductible donation is an investment in the accountability and insight New Mexico needs to determine its future.

ABQ Journal Civic Impact Fund — 2025 Local News Fund is a program administered by Local Media Foundation, tax ID #36-4427750, a Section 501(c)(3) charitable trust affiliated with the Local Media Association. Funds donated to this program support local journalism projects to inform and educate the public on critical local issues. Through this program, LMF provides funds to this news organization and many others to support these important efforts. Contributions to this program are tax-deductible to the full extent of U.S. law; please consult a tax advisor for details.