New Mexico News Podcast

There are thousands of children in the state's custody, and not enough places for all of them to sleep. The problem often results in kids sleeping in government office buildings, requiring long shifts from workers with some of the most high-needs children. How did it come to this? What's being done to fix it? KRQE Investigative Reporter Ann Pierret joins Chris and Gabby to break down what her reporting uncovered about CYFD's growing crisis, the strain on staff, and efforts to add more foster care support. Watch Ann's recent investigation  Thanks for listening. If you've got an idea, send it to us at chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. Give us a follow on social media at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. Watch or listen to our prior podcasts online at KRQE.com/podcast and our KRQE YouTube channel, or on broadcast TV every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m. MST on Fox New Mexico. 

Monsoon season has arrived in New Mexico, and that means sudden, dangerous flash floods. Fast-moving water in arroyos and streets can trap people in seconds. So, how do firefighters prepare for these high-stakes rescues? And why do people keep getting caught in the same flood zones? Chris and Gabby talk with two Albuquerque firefighters about what it takes to pull off a swift water rescue, the intense training behind it, and what everyone should know to stay safe. Check out the video version of this episode to see footage from some of the swift water rescues discussed in the episode. Thanks for listening. If you've got an idea, send it to us at chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. Give us a follow on social media at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. Watch or listen to our prior podcasts online at KRQE.com/podcast and our KRQE YouTube channel, or on broadcast TV every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m. MST on Fox New Mexico. 

Lawmakers agree the system isn't working, especially when it comes to how courts handle people with mental illness. A new law promises major reforms and millions in investment toward behavioral health in New Mexico. But what will actually change, and when? This week, Chris and Gabby talk with two insiders tasked with leading reform efforts about what this law means for judges, treatment access, and the long road ahead.  Thanks for listening. If you've got an idea, send it to us at chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. Give us a follow on social media at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. Watch or listen to our prior podcasts online at KRQE.com/podcast and our KRQE YouTube channel, or on broadcast TV every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m. MST on Fox New Mexico. 

The National Guard is deploying in Albuquerque, aiming to help tackle the city's crime problem by freeing up more police officers. New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham declared an emergency through an Executive Order in April, after receiving a letter from Albuquerque's Police Chief, who requested additional resources to combat what he described as a crime problem that "continues to be an emergency" in the city. APD says integrating Guardsmen and women will allow officers to be more present in high-crime areas, particularly along Central Avenue. But how will this work? What will the National Guard be doing or not doing? Maj. Gen. Miguel Aguilar, the Adjutant General overseeing New Mexico's National Guard, joins Chris and Gabby to explain everything you need to know.  Thanks for listening. If you've got an idea, send it to us at chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. Give us a follow on social media at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. Watch or listen to our prior podcasts online at KRQE.com/podcast and our KRQE YouTube channel, or on broadcast TV every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m. MST on Fox New Mexico. 

For years, New Mexicans have heard promises of "revitalization" and "redevelopment" in downtown Albuquerque—but is it actually happening? This week, Chris and Gabby sit down with Terry Brunner, Director of the Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency, to pull back the curtain on how government is working with the private sector to incentivize development. Brunner details housing plans, local business buy-in for increased security, and some long-game, multimillion-dollar projects like the 'Rail Trail.' What is it exactly? And when could people see the Rail Trail in real life? Thanks for listening. If you've got an idea, send it to us at chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. Give us a follow on social media at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. Watch or listen to our prior podcasts online at KRQE.com/podcast and our KRQE YouTube channel, or on broadcast TV every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m. MST on Fox New Mexico. 

When someone is deemed 'incompetent' to stand trial, how does New Mexico's criminal justice system respond? It's the subject of a recent Larry Barker investigation that looked at cases involving hundreds of arrests, only for the offenders to be released back onto the streets. People who are mentally ill are committing crimes across the state, getting arrested, and their cases are dismissed without any repercussions or assistance. Barker, along with University of New Mexico Criminal Law Professor Joshua Kastenberg, join Chris and Gabby this week to discuss the complexities of cases like this, and why the justice system isn't set up to help the incompetent suspects or their victims.  Watch Larry's recent report: Free rides on the New Mexico justice train  Thanks for listening. If you've got an idea, send it to us at chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. Give us a follow on social media at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. Watch or listen to our prior podcasts online at KRQE.com/podcast and our KRQE YouTube channel, or on broadcast TV every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m. MST on Fox New Mexico. 

The leader of the federal agency that investigated the DWI corruption scandal has left his position as Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Albuquerque. Now, former SAC Raul Bujanda sat down with KRQE's Anchor, Dean Staley, for an exit interview that covered crime, guns, and the state's biggest police corruption scandal. Bujanda discusses his time with the FBI, youth violence, and speaks candidly about teens' access to guns. What does the former FBI leader believe is the main driver of crime in New Mexico? Will more cops be charged in the corruption scheme? Thanks for listening. If you've got an idea, send it to us at chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. Give us a follow on social media at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. Watch or listen to our prior podcasts online at KRQE.com/podcast and our KRQE YouTube channel, or on broadcast TV every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m. MST on Fox New Mexico. 

Would higher taxes on alcohol reduce alcohol-related deaths in New Mexico? University of New Mexico researchers say yes. But the state hasn't changed the way it taxes alcohol for decades. This week, Brady Horn, UNM Economics Professor and one of the researchers behind the study, along with Democratic Senator Antonio 'Moe' Maestas, join Chris and Gabby to explain the goal of the alcohol tax research, the state funding behind it, and why it's such a controversial issue in the legislature. What's the best way to tax alcohol in the first place? Could higher taxes impact the local economy in a good or bad way? Thanks for listening. If you've got an idea, send it over to us at chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. On social media, you can find as at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. You can watch or listen to our prior podcasts online at KRQE.com/podcast and our KRQE YouTube channel, or on broadcast TV every Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST on Fox New Mexico. 

New Mexico's flagship university has gone through a lot of changes lately in the athletics department. This week, Fernando Lovo, the Lobo's new VP and Director of Athletics, joins Chris and Gabby to discuss some of the big decisions he's had to make out of the gate - including hiring both a new head football and men's basketball coach. Lovo also discusses how UNM is dealing with major shifts in NCAA policy, including student athletes' use of "name, image, and likeness" (NIL), and the transfer portal. Will the new coaches stick with the Lobos for the long haul? How is Lovo and the department navigating the new college athletics landscape? We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque is the fifth largest base in the United States Air Force, and one of the 'crown jewels' of national security. This week, two guests from KAFB join Chris and Gabby to explain some of the critical missions happening on base, the economic impact the 52,000-acre base has in New Mexico, and the upcoming chance the public will have to get up close and personal to the aircraft. Kirtland AFB will host its first air show in six years in May. What should people expect to see? And what makes Albuquerque such a unique training environment for pilots?  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

If you had $1.5 million to build something for your community, what would you spend it on? Voters in Albuquerque will decide just that with the ‘set aside' fund from Council District 6, thanks to the idea of ‘Participatory Budgeting.' What does that mean exactly? City Councilor Nichole Rogers is spearheading the movement in her district for the first time. She joins Chris and Gabby this week to explain why she's doing it, how people are getting involved with plans, and the projects currently on the table. Could this set a trend?  Voting for the community-inspired projects is open through April 19th, 2025. Learn more about them and how to vote here.  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST.

Two-time Oscar winner and prolific actor Gene Hackman spent his later years in New Mexico with his wife, Betsy Arakawa. And when news of their mysterious death surfaced, a media frenzy ensued. This week on the New Mexico News Insiders Podcast, Chris and Gabby are joined by KRQE Anchor-Reporters Chad Brummett and Annalisa Pardo to discuss Hackman's legacy in the film industry, his time in New Mexico, and the investigation and reporting that followed. Our reporting takes you behind the scenes of the initial 911 call response, and reveals details about what Hackman's neighbors told law enforcement.  Watch Annalisa's report on the body camera footage  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

Three-and-a-half years into service, Albuquerque's civilian emergency response team just marked its 100,000th call. Albuquerque Community Safety (ACS) launched in 2021 as part of the city's effort to provide a more specialized approach to behavioral health, homelessness, and non-violent related 911 emergencies. Walter Adams was one of the first five responders, now serving as ACS's Deputy Director of Field Operations. He joins Chris and Gabby to explain how the department is measuring its success, and the rapid growth they've experienced. Is ACS making a dent in homelessness? Does having this third option help relieve police and fire crews?   2022 ride-along with ACS shortly after launch  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST.

Albuquerque Fire Rescue Chief Emily Jaramillo is the first woman to serve as Fire Chief in the department's 123-year history. As a former teacher, Jaramillo was compelled to switch careers when she had a recruiter come talk to her class. She joins Chris and Gabby this week to discuss the challenges and fulfilling parts of the job. She also discusses a contentious City Council meeting that had her in the hot seat defending a controversial staffing change she believes will improve response times in the city and ultimately help save lives in an emergency. Why did city councilors quash her staffing plan? Is Chief Jaramillo going against the so-called 'gold standard?' Those topics and more are explained in the full interview.  March 3rd Albuquerque City Council Meeting We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

Researchers from the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center found 'alarmingly high levels' of microplastics in human brains. The amount appears to be a higher concentration of plastic than found in other organs, and scientists say the accumulation is growing over time. So, how did plastic get there in the first place? And what, if anything, should people do about this issue? Dr. Marcus Garcia joins Chris and Gabby to explain the methods used in the study, what researchers learned, and the questions they're still working to answer. He also shares what scientists believe to be the catalyst for plastic entering our food chain.  Nature Medicine Article  UNM Health Sciences Center Research  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

A New Mexico refugee student trafficked by her sponsor family. Young women with no family support, taken advantage of on the streets of Albuquerque. It was personal stories like those and unforeseen encounters with human trafficking victims that led Shelley Repp to an unexpected calling - now leading the New Mexico Dream Center, a nonprofit in Albuquerque focused on outreach, services, and prevention for trafficking victims. Repp was recently recognized for Nexstar Media Group's 2025 'Remarkable Women' contest. She joins Chris and Gabby this week to discuss what led her to this work and how prevalent the issue of human trafficking in New Mexico is. She also offers insight into a part of society online that she claims parents need to know about. We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

It has been a busy start to the year for New Mexico's Attorney General, Raúl Torrez. He's embroiled in a legal battle brewing at a New Mexico university, proposing changes in state law during the legislative session, and now tackling national politics in court. AG Torrez joins Chris and Gabby to explain legal actions he's filed to push back against some of the work efforted by President Donald Trump's Administration. Torrez also details what he believes lawmakers should prioritize this session. How do some of New Mexico's federally funded programs stand to change under DOGE and Trump? What are some of the main bills Torrez is backing this legislative session? Is a rehaul of CYFD in the state's future?  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

President Donald Trump has made it no secret that he plans to shake up the status quo on how the United States operates when it comes to immigration, promising mass deportation efforts. So how are those efforts going so far in New Mexico? This week, Sophia Genovese, Asylum and Detention Managing Attorney with the New Mexico Immigrant Law Center joins Chris and Gabby to provide context and answer some of the main questions and concerns the NMILC is getting from the public. Genovese says their office has been flooded with phone calls under the new presidential administration. Have there been any confirmed ICE raids in New Mexico? What might that look like? And what should someone do if they're approached about their legal status in the country?  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST.

It's one of the biggest public corruption scandals in New Mexico, involving money, a defense attorney's office, and drunk driving cases. We've now seen some of the key players in the 'DWI Enterprise' take federal plea deals, admitting the scheme to profit off of DWI dismissals goes back decades. This week, Linda Atkinson, Executive Director of the DWI Resource Center, joins Chris and Gabby to discuss the initial plea deals, and share why she's paid such close attention to DWI court cases over the years. How big of an issue is drunk driving in New Mexico? How does this corruption scandal impact faith in the state's judicial system?  Click here for KRQE's continuing coverage of the DWI dismissal scandal  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

The City of Albuquerque is making a significant investment in the Gateway Center along Gibson, which aims to be a one-stop shop for services. One of the main resources inside the facility, known as 'Medical Respite' will provide primary medical, dental, and behavioral health care for people living on the streets. Rachel Biggs, Chief Strategy Officer for the program, and Kate Morton, Chief Clinical Officer, join Chris and Gabby to explain how the facility will work, who it will serve, and the overall promise to the community. How big of an impact will it make? Is medical staffing a struggle?  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

The Fentanyl crisis has changed law enforcement's approach to tackling drugs and education. This week, Carlos Briano, Spokesperson for the Drug Enforcement Agency El Paso Division, which covers New Mexico, joins Chris and Gabby to discuss the DEA's mission on the streets, and in schools. What's behind the recent Fentanyl overdose death decline? How are kids learning about drugs in schools? Briano expands on a newly adopted school curriculum by Albuquerque Public Schools, created in collaboration with Discovery Education and the DEA. Plus, hear about the unique challenges New Mexico and Texas are facing when it comes to drug crimes.  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

New Mexico's Top federal law enforcement officer peels back the curtain on what's historically been a pretty secretive job. The state's U.S. Attorney's Office is responsible for prosecuting federal crimes ranging from murder, organized crime, and issues in Indian Country, to investigating and prosecuting public corruption. This week, New Mexico's U.S. Attorney, Alexander Uballez, shares some of his proudest moments serving in this role, cases that have made an impact, and the path he'd like the office to continue during President Trump's administration. He also responds to the latest charges in the DWI dismissal scandal. What's next for that case?  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

From an impressive turn-around to losing its head football coach, and now legal challenges amid the basketball team - there have been significant highs and lows for the University of New Mexico's Lobo Athletic Department over the last few months. This week Chris and Gabby sit down with KRQE Sports gurus Van Tate and Jared Chester to drill into the season of Lobo sports. How will the new Athletic Director, Fernando Lovo, fare under the circumstances? What's next for Lobo football under a new head coach? And what do the basketball team and its fans make of the lawsuit filed against its head coach?  Also discussed, are the impacts of the NIL on college athletics. Van and Jared also share their perspective of covering the Lobos, and how these dynamics have impacted the team turnarounds.  Watch Gabby's investigative report and interview with Shane Douma-Sanchez Watch KRQE reporting on the lawsuit filed against UNM We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

What could become of the Expo New Mexico State Fairgrounds? Near the end of 2024, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham announced a 'Request for Proposal,' or RFP, seeking ideas for a master plan to redevelop 236 acres of state-owned land in the central part of Albuquerque. This week, Chris & Gabby break down what this could mean for the area near the International District with freshman District 6 City Counselor, Nichole Rogers. The governor's announcement is coupled with half a million dollars in state funding and ideas for potential housing development, entertainment venues, and possibly moving the State Fair out of Expo. What do the neighbors want? And what are the next steps?  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

From crime, homelessness, economic investments, and a new presidential administration - there are several potential changes in the pipeline for 2025. This week, Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller joins Chris and Gabby to discuss some major events from 2024 and what's ahead for the new year. Keller is officially in the final year of his second term and will run for a third term. What's his thinking behind another mayoral term? And what should Albuquerque be focused on the most in 2025?  Tune into the full discussion to hear his response to the big news topics including the DWI-APD corruption scandal, an RFP for Expo New Mexico, and continued challenges in the International District. We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST.

From historic wildfires and flooding, to one of the most watched criminal trials of the year, 2024 has been another big news year for New Mexico. This week on KRQE's News 13's New Mexico News Insiders, Chris and Gabby are taking a look back at some of the most impactful stories of 2024 with KRQE's evening anchors, Jessica Garate, and Dean Staley. This year, we've put together a roundtable discussion, analyzing four big New Mexico news topics in 2024 and how they'll take shape in 2025. Dean Staley kicks off the discussion with how warming seasons and natural disasters have affected New Mexico. Las Vegas saw more than 30 inches of snow in November, Roswell experienced record flooding in an October storm, while areas near Willard were buried in rain and hail in June. Gabby continues the conversation, leading discussion around the ongoing federal investigation into Albuquerque Police's DWI Unit scandal. Will officers face criminal charges for the alleged public corruption scheme? We're also dalking about the ongoing struggles with the state's Children, Youth and Families Department. It's a topic Jessica Garate has highlighted through several stories in 2024, including a story about the state's child-parent reunification policy. Chris wraps up the discussion with a brief look into New Mexico's development story and the major projects promising an economic "shot in the arm" that have or haven't taken shape in 2024. Will Maxeon's promised solar manufacturing plant, or Ebon Solar's project take shape in Mesa del Sol in 2025? We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

Happy Holidays from New Mexico News Insiders! This week, we're back for another look at some of the best "good news" stories from 2024. KRQE Anchor-Reporters Jessica Garate and Annalisa Pardo join Chris and Gabby to talk about a few special stories they put together this year, which are airing in KRQE's annual "Good News" newscast special. Annalisa takes us behind the scenes of a newer federal court program aimed to help people transition from incarceration to successful citizens. Jessica highlights a special wish come true for an 8-year-old girl whose family has kept the positivity flowing during hardship.  Watch Annalisa's story about the "RIO" federal court program.  Watch Jessica's story about Phoebe's wish coming true.  Got something to say? Send your feedback or podcast ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! For an abbreviated broadcast version of Insiders, tune into our show on Fox New Mexico every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

Ever wonder what New Mexico looked like before dinosaurs roamed the earth? Local paleontologists have been studying fossils and renovating a new space at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science to bring visitors a first-hand look at the prehistoric southwest. This week, the museum's Curator of Paleontology, Dr. Spencer Lucas, joins Chris and Gabby to talk about their latest exhibit “Ancient Life,” painting a picture of some never-before-seen collections and creatures that'll soon be on display.  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

More than four-and-a-half years since the pandemic-related closure of the Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, the Bureau of Land Management and Cochiti Pueblo announced the monument is now reopened to the public. The long-awaited reopening, however, comes with several new conditions, processes, and higher fees. Former UNM Professor and longtime geologist Dr. Gary Smith joins Chris and Gabby to discuss the monument's historical significance, some of the new conditions put in place, and how the two agencies are working together to preserve the unique, millions-of-years-old landscape.  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST.

Plenty of industries are in need of staff, but did you know New Mexico has an accounting crisis? That's according to State Auditor, Joseph Maestas. When local governments can't hire a good accountant, the ripple effect on local economies can be damaging. Auditor Maestas shares what his industry is doing to try and recruit fresh talent, retain workforce in New Mexico, and improve how the state manages its money. We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Do you prefer video with your podcasts? Check out the video version of the show on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

When it comes to overall child well-being in New Mexico, the state ranks 50th in the nation according to a 'Kids Count' report. But that ranking doesn't even include child abuse and neglect data. What sort of indicators are used to measure child welfare? And how can New Mexico move out of last place? Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office Lieutenant Amy Dudewicz has had a long career in local law enforcement dealing with cases of child abuse. Lt. Dudewicz and KRQE Investigative Reporter Ann Pierret join Chris and Gabby to discuss the complexities of the state's system of holding child abusers accountable and some of the biggest challenges for law enforcement.  Watch Ann's investigation: Inside the complex system of holding child abusers accountable  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

With an aging population and fewer children being born, New Mexico could head toward a concerning decline, according to UNM researchers. Geospatial & Population Studies (UNM-GPS) Senior Research Scientist Jacqueline Miller joins Chris & Gabby to discuss her projections based on 2020 Census numbers. While the numbers aren't set in stone, Miller explains what this could mean for the state's economic and political future. Will migration trends continue with young people leaving New Mexico? What's the key to growth? We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

Social media can help people stay connected from anywhere in the world. But it's also a platform where predators can connect with children more easily than ever before. This week, New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez joins Chris and Gabby to explain why he's taking internet giants, Meta and Snapchat, to court over what he believes are dangerous platforms for children. Are Meta and Snapchat doing enough to keep adult strangers from accessing children? Are there enough safeguards in place already? Torrez shares why he considers these local court battles as a starting point for bringing about major changes to the worldwide platform.  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

Election Day 2024 is here. It's been a contentious national election season, and locally, New Mexico could see some big changes. UNM Political Science Professor and KRQE Political Analyst, Gabe Sanchez, joins Chris and Gabby to break down the races to watch in this election. Will a visit from Donald Trump impact voters or local candidates? How much do political ads matter? Locally, it's also the first time both the House and Senate face new voting maps after redistricting, and all 112 seats in the state legislature are up for grabs. How could the new maps reshape the state's political landscape? Plus, could a declining population result in New Mexico losing a congressional seat?  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

New Mexicans aren't alone in experiencing more extreme weather events lately. Meanwhile, those responsible for reporting accurate information during a life-threatening disaster are also facing more extreme examples of weather misinformation, or weather 'skeptics.' This week we clear the fog on some common misconceptions and discuss emerging topics like 'cloud seeding,' climate science, and what it takes to give an accurate weather forecast each day. KRQE Chief Meteorologist Grant Tosterud, and KRQE alumni and Meteorologist, Kristen Currie from KXAN in Austin, Texas, each join Chris and Gabby to discuss how they navigate the storm of forecasting the weather while facing a new torrent of weather misinformation online.  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

The authenticity and trust in local elections has become a growing topic of discourse, and in some cases, led to disagreements in the United States. In an effort to ensure voters can trust the process, New Mexicans will see nonpartisan ‘Election Monitors' at polling locations across the state on November 5th. Observe New Mexico Elections Co-Lead, Carmen López, and Associate Director of Democracy, & Peace Programs at the Carter Center, Sarah Cooper, join Chris and Gabby this week to discuss election integrity, and the nonpartisan observation effort to increase transparency across the state's 33 counties.  How can regular citizens get involved? Click here to learn more about becoming an election observer or county coordinator.  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

Between gun trafficking, targeting the fentanyl supply chain, and investigating human smuggling operations, there's an agency operating in the shadows to crack down on illegal activity spilling across New Mexico's border. Special Agent In Charge of Homeland Security Investigations El Paso Division, J.T. Stevens, joins Chris and Gabby this week to discuss the complexities of HSI missions. SAC Stevens shares details about the uptick in human smuggling stash houses, transnational criminal operations in New Mexico, and what HSI is doing to stop criminals. How successful are their missions? Are there enough resources at the border?  Click here for more information on the Know2Protect campaign mentioned in the show.  Click here to learn more about Operation Chain Breaker  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast on our YouTube channel. Our show also airs on television! Tune into Fox New Mexico on Wednesdays at 10:35 p.m. MST. 

Albuquerque police detectives are using genealogy to solve decades-old cold case crimes. In this latest example, APD and the FBI identified the victims from two cold case homicides using genealogy and DNA research. Despite signs of foul play when their skeletal remains were discovered years ago, the women were only known as 'Jane Doe' until now. Kyle Hartsock, Commander of APD's Criminal Investigation Division, joins Chris and Gabby to discuss how law enforcement is leveraging this technology, a grassroots DNA database, and federal grant funds to solve crimes that have been unsolvable until now. We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the podcast on our YouTube channel.  We're also now broadcasting the podcast on television! Tune in to an abbreviated version of New Mexico News Insiders on Fox New Mexico every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m.

While state leaders have celebrated New Mexico's "billion dollar" cannabis industry, more than two years into recreational sales, there's growing concern about the regulatory apparatus tasked with monitoring thousands of licensed cannabis facilities. A recent Larry Barker investigation exposed how New Mexico's Cannabis Control Division has only inspected roughly half of the state's more than 3,000 licensed facilities. Barker's investigation also revealed how some of those operations are openly violating the state's cannabis rules and regulations. This week on New Mexico News Insiders, Investigative Reporter Larry Barker sits down with Chris McKee and Gabrielle Burkhart to discuss the results of his cannabis industry investigation. Leader of the largest licensed cannabis operator in the state, Ultra Health CEO Duke Rodriguez also shares his perspective on the impact the lack of regulation is having on New Mexico and the state's cannabis industry. Click here to watch Larry Barker's full investigation, titled, 'The New Mexico Cannabis Cowboys: Modern-day Desperados.' We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel. We're also now broadcasting the podcast on TV! Tune in to an abbreviated version of New Mexico News Insiders on Fox New Mexico every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m.

In the run-up to the November election, one of two New Mexico Senate seats is on the ballot. Democratic incumbent Senator Martin Heinrich is seeking another term, facing Republican challenger, Nella Domenici, daughter of the late Pete Domenici. Listeners will hear both candidates share their ideas about policy and changes they'd like to work on for New Mexico. Topics range from the economy, education challenges, and abortion policy, to drug and crime problems. Click here to watch KRQE's Election Special featuring full interviews with Sen. Martin Heinrich and Nella Domenici We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the podcast on our YouTube channel.

It's a case that rattled New Mexico's Muslim community after three men were shot and killed seemingly at random in the summer of 2022. Investigators at the time wouldn't call it a ‘hate crime' before a suspect was identified. Today, with Muhammad Syed behind bars for the murders, the motive remains a mystery. Syed was convicted earlier this year in one of the murders, then recently took a plea deal in the remaining two killings. This week, Gabby and Chris break down the case that thrust Albuquerque into the national spotlight with KRQE News 13 reporter, Natalie Wadas, and prominent defense attorney, Ahmad Assed.  Watch KRQE investigation about the two other murders Syed was investigated for.  Link to KRQE report on Syed's recent plea deal. We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the podcast on our YouTube channel.

Chief Troy Weisler is more than a year in on the job of leading the New Mexico State Police. The NMSP employs around 700 sworn officers across 12 different districts in New Mexico. As a 22-year veteran of one of the state's largest police departments, Chief Weisler shares his perspective with Chris and Gabby on the state's crime problem, and how his department is uniquely positioned to help address it. The Chief also details his thoughts on the lack of traffic enforcement across the state and what he hopes to do with the department under his leadership.  How is the New Mexico State Police helping to address violent crime? Will there be more officers pulling speeders over on your morning commute?  Thanks for listening! We'd love to hear from you. Send your ideas to chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video versions of the podcast on our YouTube channel. We're also now broadcasting the podcast on air! Tune in to an abbreviated version of New Mexico News Insiders on Fox New Mexico every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m.

Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller recently delivered his ‘State of the City' address, calling it ‘A Future Worth Fighting For.' What does he mean by that, exactly? This week, Mayor Keller joins Gabby and Chris for an in-depth discussion about crime, homelessness, the economy, and more. Keller says the metro's biggest problem leads back to Fentanyl. He also admits the city's housing voucher program isn't working and needs an overhaul. Plus with construction timelines getting pushed back, will Keller be around for a third term? What should the city be focusing on the most? We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the podcast on our YouTube channel. 

It's a new era that American cities, counties, and states are now facing in how they can address homelessness in law and ordinance. A June ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court in the case of Grants Pass vs. Johnson cleared the way for cities nationwide to enforce bans on people sleeping outside in public places. The ruling generally gives local governments more latitude to address homeless encampments in public places. What does this mean for New Mexico? How are local leaders reacting to this Supreme Court decision?  This week on the podcast, Gabby and Chris are joined by returning guest, Professor Joshua Kastenberg of the UNM School of Law. Kastenberg provides an analysis of the SCOTUS decision and offers perspective on how larger cities are dealing with the issue.  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the podcast on our YouTube channel.

New Mexico's Chile farmers are reporting a ‘bumper crop' year for the state's beloved crop as the aroma of green Chile roasting season fills the air. Ben Etcheverry, President of the New Mexico Chile Association, joins Chris and Gabby to discuss how nature played a vital part in this year's harvest. He also addresses industry concerns like inflation, shrinking margins for local farmers, and the state's legacy of Chile woven into New Mexico culture. Etcheverry also explains how technology is helping the agriculture industry.  Read the report we mentioned about dwindling acres harvested for Chile here. We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the podcast on our YouTube channel.

New Mexico Health authorities shared some alarming results from surprise visits to several long-term care facilities. Elderly residents shared concerns through a survey about staff shortages, unappetizing food, hygiene issues, and lack of physical activities. In one case, staff at a senior care facility lost track of an elderly resident during a surprise visit from the state. So what's being done about it? New Mexico's Department of Health Secretary, Patrick Allen, joins Gabby to discuss how the survey worked, and what the state is doing with the results.  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the podcast on our YouTube channel.

In New Mexico, an estimated one out of seven children experience the death of a parent or sibling before graduating high school. National rankings also list the state high in violent crime, and low in education. So how is grief impacting young students and families? This week on the podcast, Mickey Kivitz, the new Director of Education for the Grief Center, joins Gabby to discuss new efforts to reach grieving families in rural New Mexico and offer resources. He shares tips for talking to children about tough subjects, and the importance of peer connection.  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the podcast on our YouTube channel. 

Just three days into his criminal trial, Alec Baldwin's involuntary manslaughter case for the shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was dismissed by a Santa Fe judge citing the 'state's discovery violation,' also known as a 'Brady violation.' The rule isn't new, but it's shining a spotlight on the issue of withholding evidence in the criminal justice system. The 'Rust' movie armorer is now seeking a dismissal for her conviction. So how did the prosecution's case unravel so quickly? And what does this mean for other criminal cases? Jennifer Burrill, a longtime criminal defense attorney and President of the Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, provides analysis of Baldwin's trial and its aftermath.  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of the podcast now on our YouTube channel.

Ruidoso has been through a brutal cycle of wildfires, flooding, recovery, and repeat. As the village recoups from the devastating wildfires and monsoon flooding, they're also welcoming back tourists - a vital component to the mountain town's economy. This week, longtime resident and village spokesperson Kerry Gladden joins Gabby to discuss how the village emergency response worked out, how the community is dealing with the aftermath, and what summers could look like going forward. We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the podcast on our YouTube channel. 

In 2023, internet crime victims reported $12.5 billion in losses, according to the FBI. There's also been an uptick in complaints filed by elderly victims. From cryptocurrency scams, and call center schemes, to falsely claiming to buy your timeshare property - scammers are getting increasingly savvy in their targeting efforts. A longtime IRS criminal investigator joins Gabby this week to discuss his mission to inform people what to look out for. How can you and your circle of family and friends avoid falling victim? What are the five tell-tell signs of a financial scam?  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out the video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel. 

New Mexico's largest school district has a new leader in Albuquerque Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Gabriella Blakey. This week on the podcast, Gabby and guest cohost, Jessica Garate talk with Blakey about how her experience within APS is informing her decisions as a leader for the district. Blakey addresses school safety, guns on campuses, an extended school year, teacher and family challenges, and her long-term goals for the district. What will it take to improve New Mexico education? How safe are kids in public schools?  We appreciate our listeners. Send your feedback or story ideas to hosts chris.mckee@krqe.com or gabrielle.burkhart@krqe.com. We're also on X (Twitter), Facebook, & Instagram at @ChrisMcKeeTV and @gburkNM. For more on this episode and all of our prior episodes, visit our podcast website: KRQE.com/podcasts. Also, check out our YouTube channel.