It was interesting to see the Guv's office pop his proposed budget on one of the slowest news days of the year--New Year's Eve. The measure is going to cause heartburn for Big Bill with liberals in his own party, rather than the Republicans. Those 'revenue enhancements' for Medicaid users is what will especially draw liberal ire. Obviously, the Guv did not want a big deal made out of it thus the holiday budget release. But Bill does not have a deaf political ear, and to no one's surprise, did not propose any major tax increases--unless the Medicaid service hikes are called that. And, of course, I have already received emails calling them that. The state's fiscal problems may not be front and center in election year 04', but the vast sums being consumed are going to be the party spoiler in 05' and beyond--but that's not an election year.

MY MAILBAG

My report this week on the Edwards presidential campaign mentioned Marsha Hardeman, the African-American former director of The ABQ Convention Center who was fired by Mayor Baca and his then top aide Theresa Trujeque, who is now working for Edwards here. I reported that Hardeman won a $4 million dollar suit discrimination suit against the city. She did win the award but I am told the amount of that award is now pending before a federal appeals court and nothing, as of this writing, has been paid out.

Supporters of Bernalillo County GOP Chair and noted car dealer Ken Zangara were quick to point out that I fouled up when I said Ken supported AG Patsy Madrid in 98'. Ken did not support Patsy. He supported her challenger Republican David Iglesias. (Now U.S. attorney in NM) Zangara's name came up in a campaign controversy in the AG race, but I had Zangara on the wrong side of the battle. It would be a bit strange for a guy who gave $100,000 to President Bush to support a liberal Democrat. Thanks to those who pointed out the error.

Another e mailer wanted to let me know that all 112 members of the Legislature are up for election in 04', not just the 70 house members I mentioned in one of my reports. How could I forget Manny and the gang? By the way, I am working on an exclusive report for you dealing with Manny's re-election so keep in touch.

ONCE A JUNKIE...ALWAYS A JUNKIE

And finally, this first weekend of the brand new year, links to two fellow political junkies who are still going strong in semi-retired status. Arthur Alpert, the founder of the monthly ABQ magazine for seniors, Primetime, is pontificating again with a decidedly liberal slant. This time he's joined all of us on the web. Check him out at: Alperts Truth Keep it up Arthur, Roosevelt lives!


Most of my readers are aware of veteran NM political writer Larry Calloway. But you might not know he has a web site where he provides in-depth analysis on key issues. Calloway has got to be the longest running political writer in NM, going back to the AP in the mid 60's. If he isn't, Ned Cantwell, or another oldtimer, will surely correct me. In any event, Calloway still offers crisp writing leavened with his unique experience at LarryCalloway

Enjoy the weekend and see you back here Monday.

(c)NM POLITICS WITH JOE MONAHAN 2004
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