Enchantment State News

State Rep. Rebecca Dow (R-Truth or Consequences) recently filed a motion requesting that the New Mexico Ethics Commission dismiss the ethics complaint filed by her opponent, according to a release on the New Mexico GOP website.

“I have requested the State Ethics Commission immediately dismiss the false and baseless claims my opponent filed against me,” Dow said. “It was clear from the beginning that this was a political ploy by my opponent and those in her party backing her campaign. I trust the voters of House District 38 know me, my character and my dedication to the people of this district and that they will see through these tactics.”

Dow’s filing rebuts the meritless original ethics complaint as frivolous, and emphasizes her opponents blatant misuse of the Ethics Commission for political gain.

According to the release, the timing of Dow's opponent is not above suspicion, seeing as how she filed the false complaint with the Ethics Commission within 60 days of an election which robbed Dow of her right to due process before the election takes place. To prevent the commission from being used for political purposes, the State Ethics Commission Act created a 60-day “blackout period” during which reports can still be filed, but they cannot be adjudicated. Dow’s only recourse is to request a dismissal.

“It is unfortunate that the Ethics Commission is being used to advance my opponents political career,” Dow said. “What she has done, in filing an already proven baseless claim and during the 'blackout' period, has jeopardized the integrity of the important work the Ethics Commission is charged with doing.”

Dow’s motion to dismiss also acknowledges the inconsistent arguments made by Dow’s opponent in why she filed her complaint during a blackout period and further questions the misreporting of expenses and donations in campaign finance reports filed by both Karen Whitlock and House Speaker Brian Egolf.

“The actions taken by Rep. Dow’s three-time opponent are what offend so many people in politics,” said Republican Leader Jim Townsend (Artesia). “There are perennial politicians in this state that would rather mudsling and attempt to score headlines and political points rather than acknowledge the tireless work and steadfast dedication of someone like Rep. Dow. The people of House District 38 deserve to hear where the candidates stand on issues, not waste time on frivolous political ploys.”