Western States Center Statement on Arrest of Suspect in Politically Motivated Shootings in New Mexico

New Mexico police have arrested Solomon Peña, a failed Republican candidate, in connection with shootings at the homes and offices of Democratic elected officials in New Mexico in December and January. A review of Peña’s social media and public statements shows he has shared election denial conspiracy theories and claims his own election was rigged. At this time, police and local officials believe that the shootings were politically motivated.  

Amy Herzfeld-Copple, Western States Center’s Deputy Director of Programs and Strategic Initiatives, issued the following statement:

“These attacks against the homes and families of public officials demonstrate how dangerous, anti-democracy rhetoric can lead to political violence. Those who traffic in conspiracy theories, election denialism and seek to undermine civic institutions are on a path that often leads them or others to real world violence. What we have seen in New Mexico is a wake-up call for anyone who would minimize the danger this rhetoric poses to our democracy and safety of our elected officials and their families. Our leaders, especially those who have in the past tolerated, excused and even amplified this dangerous rhetoric should now condemn it and the political violence it accelerates.” 

“Local governments and officials are increasingly finding themselves on the frontlines of protecting our institutions against bigoted and anti-democracy movements, and they cannot be left to fight this fight alone. Bipartisan condemnation of violence and harmful conspiracies and broad civil society coalitions are needed alongside local and federal law enforcement responses to counter rising anti-democracy movements. Peña’s escalation from rhetoric to violence should bring renewed urgency to efforts to bolster local institutions, including with federal resources, against these threats.”

Western States Center was joined by dozens of local leaders and civil society groups in calling for federal action to defend local institutions last year, and renews that call today.