Seeking justice

We at Americans Against Abusive Probate Guardianship-New Mexico are very interested in learning how both candidates running for New Mexico governor would handle the governor’s responsibilities within the flawed guardianship system in New Mexico. The governor plays a critical role in guardianship because 90-plus percent of the judges in the state are governor-appointed, and in the last decade, several governorappointed judges have been a party to multiple guardianship cases.

We are requesting a public statement from the gubernatorial candidates, answering the following questions: What steps would you, as governor, take in order to ensure your judicial appointees at all levels provide accountability and oversight for the vulnerable under courtappointed guardianship and/or conservatorship? If elected governor, what steps would you take to ensure your judicial appointees do not violate their oaths? If your judicial appointee were to violate their oaths or abuse their powers, how would you address their actions?

We implore that the next governor of New Mexico seek justice for these vulnerable New Mexicans by providing the accountability, oversight and protection they deserve. Kelley Smoot Garrett

executive vice president and CIO, AAAPG Lorraine Mendiola

associate legislative N.M. director, AAAPG David Heeter

N.M. member, AAAPG Mary Darnell N.M. member, AAAPG