SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - New Mexico’s five horse racetracks and casinos and their owners contributed at least $60,000 in political donations to the campaign of Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham.
The Santa Fe New Mexican reports the racinos are opposed to the state awarding a sixth and final license for a new track and casino, saying increased competition for horses and wagers would threaten the industry.
It’ll be up to Lujan Grisham to decide if the licensing process that was started under the previous administration will continue. As governor, the Democrat oversees the state Racing Commission and appoints its members.
Lujan Grisham’s office says the governor will evaluate the situation before setting a course on the licensing issue.
Campaign finance records also show that the tracks and their owners contributed far less to Lujan Grisham’s general election opponent, former Congressman Steve Pearce.
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Information from: The Santa Fe New Mexican, http://www.santafenewmexican.com
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