ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez is questioning a decision by the state’s top elected land manager to block federal authorities from accessing state trust land along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Land Commissioner Aubrey Dunn contends the federal government never received permission and has not paid the state for easements or rights of way to use the property.
Dunn has reached out to federal officials in hopes of reaching an agreement but has yet to hear back. He cordoned off the property Tuesday.
Martinez said she was surprised to hear about the dust up, saying more conversations should have been held with the federal government given that border security is a top priority.
The two-term Republican governor said the move to keep border patrol officers out of the area was “not well thought out.”
Please read our comment policy before commenting.