SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Republican Gov. Susana Martinez is pressuring the Democratically controlled state Legislature to move forward with confirmation hearings for nominations that include agency heads and university regents.
The Senate on Wednesday responded to a letter from the governor seeking to withdraw the names of more than 50 appointees to various state commissions and boards. Martinez says withdrawing the names would give the Senate more time to consider 23 pending nominations to critical posts.
In a written response, the Senate says that candidates cannot be withdrawn from the nominating process unless they are removed from their acting positions in government. Senators say to do otherwise would circumvent their constitutional powers.
Martinez spokesman Michael Lonergan says the Senate has willfully neglected its constitutional duty by stalling key confirmations. The Legislature adjourns March 18.
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