U.S. Should Learn from Germany's Renewable Energy Mistakes: Congressman Ben Ray Lujan thinks increased use of renewable energy would be good for the U.S. Germany, who has tried to be a leader in renewable energy has strong reality warnings for the U.S. regarding this subject. Germany has been through this and found many unintended consequences that are now causing them to change directions. Read more: U.S. Should Learn from Germany's Renewable Energy Mistakes

Secretary of State Dianna Duran to be honored as an NMBC Hero: See the full line up HERE. Join us at the 2014 Heroes Luncheon on August 7 from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at the Albuquerque Country Club. Register for the Heroes Luncheon HERE. Early bird pricing ends soon!

Progressive or Probusiness? One of the tactics in the progressive agenda playbook is to repeat false information enough that it takes on a life of its own. For many voters this tactic works, outright lies become known to them as the truth. The Obamacare law that was passed by progressives is a great example. Sold to the American public as a way to stop rising healthcare premiums, "The Affordable Care Act" was named to make sure the lies behind this legislation were embraced and believed by the public.

Announcing the 2014 NMBC HEROES Luncheon: Join us and the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association on August 7, 2014 from 11:30 to 1:00 pm as we honor the NMBC Heroes, including 2014 Hero of the Year Lt. Gov John Sanchez. MEET THE NMBC HEROES HERE. Purchase your Early-Bird ticket to the Luncheon TODAY!

Is New Mexico Destroying Its Own?

Would the state of New Mexico actually put an existing company at risk to lure new business to the state?

Bad News for New Mexico: In a recent Op-Ed by Representative Jimmie Hall, he discussed the state of New Mexico's economic rankings, which are dim in almost all areas. The decline in jobs, for example, from April 2013 to April 2014 was 4,400 jobs. Likewise, from 2008 to 2013, 15 counties lost population and the increase in New Mexican personal income ranked 48th in the country.

Las Cruces Minimum Wage Raised: After a decision by the Las Cruces City Council, the minimum wage in Las Cruces will rise to $8.50/hr in 2015. This will hurt many, but activist groups are fighting for more. Proposed minimum wage raises of up to $10.10/hr are on the table.

New EPA Guidelines: The new guidelines proposed by the EPA will require carbon emissions from power utilities to be down 30% by 2030 based on 2005 levels. Each state will have the chance to customize their own compliance plan for these guidelines, but one of the biggest concerns is how it will affect consumers. The more measures a utility company has to take before it can supply energy, the higher the cost of the energy.

Victories: Voters soundly defeated two candidates in statewide races running on a progressive platform: Alan Webber, Democratic candidate for governor, and John Wertheim, Democratic candidate for Treasurer.

Who We Elect Matters: It’s time for voters to expect more from candidates and demand accountability from elected and appointed officials. If a candidate is untruthful or acting inappropriately, do you think they’ll change if elected? You shouldn’t because history shows the behavior usually worsens when they have power associated with an elected office.