In this episode of the New Mexico Sun Cast, host Jim Williams interviews Mayling Armijo, candidate for mayor of Albuquerque in the 2025 election. Armijo discusses her background in economic development, her Navy service, and why she left a successful career to enter politics. She outlines her vision for tackling crime, homelessness, and economic stagnation, emphasizing leadership, accountability, and restoring public trust. From her family roots in Albuquerque to her track record of bringing $1.4 billion in private investment to Bernalillo County, Armijo makes her case for a safer, more business-friendly city.

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Former New Mexico State Representative and U.S. diplomat Bob Perls returns to the New Mexico Suncast to talk about building a new political path forward. As chair of the Forward Party of New Mexico, Perls explains how open primaries, ranked-choice voting, and civil discourse can break the toxic two-party gridlock.

From his background in politics and diplomacy to his leadership in New Mexico Open Elections, Perls outlines why independents now make up nearly half of American voters and how that shift could reshape democracy in the state. He also shares concrete steps for volunteers, candidates, and everyday citizens to get involved in creating more competitive, accountable elections.

If you care about political reform, voter empowerment, or the future of democracy in New Mexico, this conversation is a must-listen.

In this episode of the New Mexico Sun Cast, host Jim Williams sits down with Senator Crystal Brantley (District 35) to discuss the heated debate over the Mexican gray wolf reintroduction program. Senator Brantley shares firsthand experiences from life in rural New Mexico, the challenges faced by ranchers and families, and the economic toll of wolf depredations. From emergency declarations in Catron County to calls for federal de-listing, this conversation dives deep into the clash between conservation efforts, public safety, and the livelihoods of rural communities.

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@NewMexicoSunPodcasts

In part three of our series on bringing healthcare workers back to New Mexico, Think New Mexico’s Fred Nathan and Rio Grande Foundation’s Paul Gessing tackle the state’s most urgent challenges. From Medicaid reimbursement reform and medical malpractice caps to joining interstate compacts, education incentives, and tax reform—this discussion lays out real solutions to fix New Mexico’s doctor shortage. Hear why bipartisan support is growing, what policies are on the table, and how citizens can push lawmakers to act. 

Learn more: 

Think New Mexico: https://www.thinknewmexico.org/ 

Rio Grande Foundation: https://riograndefoundation.org/ 

New Mexico Sun: https://newmexicosun.com/ 

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