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A BLUEPRINT FOR NEW MEXICO'S FUTURE

Safe Borders, Strong Families

Sam Bregman’s Immigration Plan

A Smart, Compassionate, and Safe Immigration

As a candidate for Governor in a border state, I understand that immigration is more than a policy issue — it's a matter of public safety, economic stability, and respect for human rights. We must enforce the rule of law and protect the rights of all residents, regardless of immigration status.

 

Our immigration policy must secure our communities without tearing families apart or undermining public trust. My plan delivers a commonsense, compassionate approach that prioritizes safety, respects due process, and strengthens the relationship between immigrant communities and our local and state governments.

 

New Mexico has significant crime problems that need the focus of law enforcement every day. That is where my Administration’s focus will be, not on immigration matters. We will cooperate with the federal government in the case of serious criminal offenses and continue the efforts I have made as Bernalillo DA to keep all New Mexico residents —including immigrants—safe.

As governor, I will:

  • Keep Local and State Agencies Focused on Public Service — Not Immigration Enforcement.

  • Direct all state and local agencies to avoid inquiries into immigration status during the delivery of public services, including education, healthcare, housing, and emergency assistance.

  • Prevent law enforcement from questioning individuals about immigration status unless directly relevant to an active criminal investigation.

  • Cooperate with ICE on Serious Criminal Offenses

  • State and local law enforcement will only coordinate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) when:

    • There is a judicial criminal warrant, or

    • The individual has been convicted of a violent or serious felony under state or federal law.

  • The state will not honor ICE detainer requests that lack judicial authorization and will not participate in mass enforcement actions or civil immigration sweeps.

  • Guarantee Due Process and Legal Protections for All Residents

  • Ensure individuals in state custody are informed of their rights, including:

    • The right to remain silent

    • The right to legal counsel of custody.

  • Establish Safe Zones from Immigration Enforcement

  • Establish at sensitive locations, including:

    • Public schools and universities

    • Hospitals and health clinics

    • Places of worship

    • Courthouses

  • Build Trust Between Law Enforcement and Immigrant Communities

  • Prohibit the use of immigration status to discourage or penalize individuals who report crimes, seek protective orders, or cooperate with law enforcement.

  • Invest in culturally competent public safety training and community liaison programs to ensure police departments can effectively engage with immigrant communities.

  • My policy will ensure that we uphold public safety without sacrificing human dignity or the rule of law. The Supreme Court has been clear; everyone is entitled to due process and as governor, I will protect the right. My approach reflects our state's values — fairness, community, and the belief that no one should live in fear simply because of their legal status. Under my leadership, our state will stand strong at the border — not with cruelty or chaos, but with a smart, fair, and effective strategy that honors both security and compassion.

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