New Mexico has recently garnered attention due to a series of legal and political developments. The state's top prosecutor has initiated a lawsuit against Western New Mexico University's regents and its outgoing president, highlighting governance issues within the institution. Additionally, the resignation of several board members at the university has raised concerns about its leadership. On a broader scale, New Mexico is also in the spotlight for its environmental challenges, particularly regarding methane emissions from oil and gas operations in the Permian Basin, which straddles Texas and New Mexico.
New Mexico, known as the "Land of Enchantment," is located in the Southwestern region of the United States. It became the 47th state in 1912 and is characterized by its diverse culture, influenced by Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo traditions. The state's capital is Santa Fe, renowned for its Pueblo-style architecture and vibrant arts scene. New Mexico is also home to significant natural resources, including oil and gas, which play a crucial role in its economy, alongside tourism and agriculture. The state's unique landscapes, including deserts and mountains, attract visitors and contribute to its rich cultural heritage.
-
A federal judge has ordered depositions from members of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) amid ongoing lawsuits from labor unions and nonprofit groups. The plaintiffs argue that DOGE's access to sensitive government data violates federal law, raising significant privacy concerns.
-
Archaeologists have uncovered a 4,000-year-old timber circle in Aars, Denmark, believed to be linked to Stonehenge. The structure, consisting of at least 45 wooden posts, highlights shared ancient beliefs between Denmark and Britain, particularly in agricultural rituals and sun worship.
-
Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman was found dead at his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their dog. Authorities are investigating the circumstances, but foul play is not suspected. Hackman, known for iconic roles in films like 'The French Connection' and 'Unforgiven,' was 95 years old.
-
Recent federal job cuts are raising alarms among lawmakers and constituents, particularly in areas with high concentrations of federal workers. With 20% of the nation's civilian workforce based in Washington, D.C., the impact is felt both locally and across the country, affecting communities reliant on federal employment.
-
In 2025, the U.S. faces a resurgence of measles, with over 100 cases reported this year, including a fatality in Texas. Health officials attribute the outbreaks to declining vaccination rates, particularly among unvaccinated children. Experts emphasize the importance of vaccination to prevent further spread.
-
As of March 14, 2025, the CDC reported 308 confirmed measles cases across 15 states, marking a 39% increase from the previous week. Texas has been particularly hard-hit, with one confirmed death and a significant number of unvaccinated patients. Health officials are responding to the outbreak amid criticism of federal health leadership.
-
A measles outbreak in Texas and New Mexico has resulted in multiple infections and one death. The deceased was unvaccinated and did not seek medical care. The CDC is assisting local health officials as vaccination rates decline in the affected areas.
-
Academy Award-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Arakawa, were found dead in their Santa Fe home last month. Arakawa's death is linked to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a severe respiratory illness caused by rodent exposure. Hackman likely died of heart disease shortly after. Health officials emphasize prevention measures against hantavirus.
-
Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, were found dead in their Santa Fe home on February 26, 2025. Hackman died from heart disease, while Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus. Their deaths, ruled natural causes, highlight the couple's secluded lifestyle and Hackman's declining health due to Alzheimer's.
-
Our colleague traveled to the center of a Texas measles outbreak.
-
The Trump administration has continued deportation flights of alleged gang members to El Salvador, defying a federal court order issued by Judge James Boasberg. The judge's order, which cited the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, aimed to halt the deportations of members of the Tren de Aragua gang. The administration argues it has the authority to proceed under this law.
-
Two teenagers have been charged with murder following the death of 63-year-old Scott Dwight Habermehl, who was struck while cycling to work in Albuquerque. The incident, filmed and shared on social media, involved a stolen vehicle and a disturbing exchange between the driver and passengers.
-
A mass shooting occurred at Young Park in Las Cruces, New Mexico, on Friday night, resulting in three fatalities and 14 injuries. The police are investigating the incident and seeking video evidence from witnesses. No arrests have been made yet.