The Chile Wire

In this episode of The Chile Wire, host Abe Baldonado sits down with Republican gubernatorial candidate Gregg Hull to discuss the future of New Mexico ahead of Election Day. From affordability and economic growth to public safety and health care, Hull shares his vision for taking the state in a new direction and explains why he believes New Mexico needs a different approach to solving its biggest challenges.

Hull breaks down his four-step plan to eliminate New Mexico’s personal income tax, explaining how he believes putting more money back into taxpayers’ pockets could stimulate the economy, support small businesses, and make life more affordable for working families. The conversation also tackles the importance of New Mexico’s oil and gas industry, the economic consequences of eliminating it, and the role the state’s sovereign wealth funds could play in providing tax relief.

The discussion turns to the growing controversy surrounding AI data centers, including Project Jupiter, the proposed moratorium on new developments, and questions about government regulation, private property rights, and political hypocrisy. Hull argues that New Mexico needs to attract new businesses and create economic opportunities rather than drive industries away, while emphasizing the importance of allowing local communities to decide what works best for them.

With Election Day approaching, Hull makes his case for a new direction in New Mexico and urges voters to make their voices heard.

Tune in to hear Gregg Hull’s plans for New Mexico’s economy, taxes, energy industry, and future!

Visit Gregg Hull's Website:
https://gregghull.com/

In this episode of The Chile Wire, we sit down with New Mexico State Representative Nicole Chavez for a candid conversation about her reelection race against Lisa Curtis and the issues shaping the future of New Mexico. Chavez responds to criticism that she is "out of touch" with everyday New Mexicans and discusses the differences between her record and her opponent’s positions on healthcare, medical malpractice reform, and House Bill 99.

With decades of experience in healthcare and a deeply personal connection to New Mexico’s public safety crisis, Chavez explains why she believes the state needs meaningful medical malpractice reform, stronger accountability for criminals, and a justice system that listens to victims and their families. She also shares her perspective on the challenges facing New Mexico’s schools, the need for economic development, and why she believes state and local leadership matter more than national political debates when it comes to solving the problems New Mexicans face every day.

The conversation also tackles Project Jupiter and data centers, the controversy surrounding legislative salaries and term limits, and the importance of holding elected officials accountable for their records and votes. As Election Day approaches, Chavez urges New Mexicans to research their candidates and make their voices heard at the ballot box. 🌶️🗳️

Visit Rep. Chavez’s Website:
https://nicolechavezfornm.com/

In this episode of The Chile Wire, host Abe Baldonado interviews Julia Ruiz, Republican candidate for New Mexico House District 36 in Doña Ana County, to discuss her journey to citizenship, her conservative values, and why she decided to run for office. As a working mother and naturalized American citizen, Ruiz shares her perspective on the American Dream, border security, immigration, and the importance of putting New Mexicans ahead of party politics.

The conversation also tackles some of the biggest issues facing southern New Mexico, including Project Jupiter, data center development, water concerns, government transparency, rising crime, homelessness, and the state's education system. Ruiz explains why she believes New Mexicans deserve greater accountability from their elected officials and why students should master foundational skills before advancing to the next grade.

Tune in to hear Julia Ruiz's story, her vision for District 36, and why she believes public service should always be about serving the people!  🌶️

Visit Julia's Website:
https://www.juliafornm.com/

In this episode of The Chile Wire, host Abenicio Baldonado takes a closer look at Constitutional Amendment 4, a ballot measure that would allow New Mexico legislators to receive an annual salary. With persuasive advertisements urging voters to support the proposal, Abe breaks down what those ads leave out and examines whether paying lawmakers would truly make the Legislature more accessible to everyday New Mexicans.

Abe discusses the proposed $68,000 annual salary alongside the Legislature’s existing pension benefits, per diem reimbursements, and the ability of lawmakers to maintain their regular careers. He questions whether the measure would actually open the door for more working-class New Mexicans to serve or primarily benefit those already established in the political system. While Abe supports the idea of compensating legislators for full-time public service, he argues that a paid Legislature should come with a full-time commitment and greater accountability to the people it represents.

With Constitutional Amendment 4 on the ballot, this episode challenges voters to look beyond the campaign ads, examine the details, and decide whether the proposal delivers on its promises.

Tune in to The Chile Wire for a closer look at a ballot question that might shape New Mexico’s future, and make sure you do your research before heading to the polls. 🌶️🎙️

Helpful Links:

Changes to SB 165-
https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?Chamber=S&LegType=B&LegNo=165&year=24

Legislative Retirement-
https://www.nmpera.org/members/legislative-member

Ad Referenced in the Podcast-
https://www.instagram.com/p/DeKGT2EOpHa/

Santa Fe New Mexican Article Referenced in the Podcast-
https://www.santafenewmexican.com/news/local_news/after-whopping-pension-hikes-legislators-want-a-salary/article_cfc738e0-9cef-4f72-96c8-8241db9f0b64.html

In this episode of The Chile Wire, host Abe Baldonado sits down with Jennifer Muskrat-Velarde, a vocal advocate for Northern New Mexico’s culture, heritage, and conservative values. Together, they explore the rich history of Northern New Mexico, the deep roots of Hispano and Native American communities, and the importance of preserving the traditions, language, and way of life that make New Mexico unique.

From the growing push to divide communities through identity politics to the role of oil and gas in supporting Native American tribes and rural families, Abe and Jennifer challenge the narratives they believe are hurting New Mexico. They also discuss the impact of environmental activism on tribal sovereignty, the struggles facing farmers and ranchers, and why responsible resource development matters to the state’s economy and future.

With a major election approaching, Jennifer shares what motivated her to speak out, the candidates she supports, and why she believes New Mexicans must put people before party. From preserving local traditions to pushing back against policies she believes threaten the state’s future, this conversation is a call to stand up for New Mexico’s values, protect its heritage, and make your voice heard at the ballot box.

Tune in to The Chile Wire for a conversation about New Mexico’s past, present, and future, and why the fight to preserve the Land of Enchantment starts with the people who call it home. 🌶️🎙️

In this episode of The Chile Wire, host Abenicio Baldonado breaks down the recent interviews Noah Vargas conducted with New Mexico gubernatorial candidates Greg Hull and Deb Haaland. With a traditional debate between the two candidates looking increasingly unlikely, Abe takes a closer look at what voters can learn from the interviews that are already available.

From energy and affordability to data centers, immigration, leadership, campaign finances and the candidates’ records, Abe reacts to clips from both interviews and highlights some of the biggest differences that stood out to him. He also digs into several statements made during the interviews and encourages listeners to look at the candidates’ records and sources for themselves.

This episode isn’t about telling you how to vote. It’s about using the resources available, asking tough questions and making an informed decision before heading to the polls.

Tune in to The Chile Wire and decide for yourself what stands out!

Noah Vargas' Podcast Interviews:
Gregg Hull-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uIyI6NLw4EI

Deb Haaland-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28SHsbXaUrw

In this episode of The Chile Wire, host Abenicio Baldonado sits down with Michael Perry, Republican nominee for New Mexico State Land Commissioner, to discuss the state land office, responsible resource management, and the future of New Mexico's economy. Perry shares his perspective on conservation, oil and gas, water management, and the importance of balancing economic development with protecting New Mexico's land for future generations.

The conversation also tackles concerns over media coverage of candidates, the role of the State Land Commissioner, and the challenges facing New Mexico's energy industry. Perry discusses data centers, water conservation, forest management, and how New Mexico can put its natural resources to work for its communities while creating jobs and supporting public schools.

From the campaign trail to the future of rural New Mexico, Perry reflects on his 22 years as a game warden, his commitment to conservation, and the importance of preserving New Mexico's culture, agricultural heritage, and way of life.

Tune in to hear Michael Perry's vision for New Mexico's public lands and the issues shaping the race for State Land Commissioner! 🌶️🎙️

Visit Michael's Website:
https://perry4nmland.com/

The Santa Fe New Mexican Interviews:
Michael Perry- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSLNA4myLws 
Juan De Jesus Sanchez III- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKRYM3oSecw

In this episode of The Chile Wire, host Abe Baldonado sits down with New Mexico Secretary of State candidate Ramona Goolsby as the 2026 general election approaches. From her journey to New Mexico and her decision to step into politics to her experience as a veteran, rancher, and researcher, Ramona shares what ultimately led her to run for Secretary of State.

Abe and Ramona dive into election integrity, voter registration, voter ID, election transparency, and the importance of giving New Mexicans confidence in their elections. They also discuss government accountability, political polarization, servant leadership, faith, and why Ramona believes restoring humanity and transparency to government should be at the heart of public service.

As always, the conversation starts with the most important question: red or green? 🌶️ Tune in for an honest conversation about New Mexico elections, public service, and Ramona Goolsby’s vision for the state. 🎙️

Visit Ramona's Website:
https://www.ramonanm.com/

In this episode of The Chile Wire, host Abenicio Baldonado sits down with New Mexico State Senator Jay Block for a wide-ranging and unfiltered conversation about some of the biggest issues facing New Mexico and the country.

Senator Block shares his firsthand experience visiting the Otero County detention facility, pushing back on claims about conditions inside the facility and discussing immigration, accountability, and the importance of seeing the facts for yourself. The conversation also dives into government transparency, fraud and waste, the legacy of COVID policies, the credibility of the media, and Block’s efforts to create greater accountability within state government.

Abe and Senator Block also take on corruption and ethics concerns in New Mexico politics, the Epstein Survivors Truth Commission, election integrity, the upcoming governor’s race, Deb Haaland, Greg Hull, Republican efforts to gain ground across the state, and what independent voters could mean for the next election cycle. They also discuss education, free speech, the future of the Republican and Democratic parties, energy policy, and why oil and gas remains so important to New Mexico’s economy and security.

It’s a packed conversation covering everything from Santa Fe politics to national issues, with plenty of candid opinions, political predictions, and stories along the way.

🌶️ Tune in to the latest episode of The Chile Wire with Senator Jay Block!

This week on The Chile Wire, Abe sits down with Kristy Borrego Ojinaga for an important follow-up conversation.

Several weeks ago, Kristy joined us to share her family’s experience with Santa Fe Public Schools and explain why she decided to speak out. Now, she’s back to give us an update on what has happened since she first told her story, including recent changes to the district’s gender support policies, her continued push for parental involvement and transparency, and what she believes still needs to change.

Kristy also shares what she’s learned since going public, the response she has received from parents and lawmakers, and why she believes more parents need to pay attention to what’s happening in their children’s schools.

This is an ongoing conversation about parental rights, accountability, and making sure parents have a voice when it comes to their children. Tune in for the latest update from Kristy and hear why she’s not done speaking up... 🌶️

If you missed our last episode with Kristy, here it is:
https://share.transistor.fm/s/2e1dc8f1