New question on lawmaker’s residency

Rep. Roybal Caballero, elected in Albuquerque, promoting godson’s restaurant in El Paso

ALBUQUERQUE — State Rep. Patricia Roybal Caballero, one of the most liberal lawmakers in New Mexico who has been dogged by allegations that she doesn’t live in the state, is facing criticism for promoting a Texas cafe during coronavirus restrictions.

On her personal Facebook page, the Albuquerque Democrat has plugged in recent days the El

Paso-based Desert Moon Cafe and its menu — something she has done in the past.

She also has publicized the cafe’s move to curbside delivery in the Texas city as officials there work to stop the spread of COVID-19.

The cafe, Roybal Caballero told the Associated Press, is owned by her godson, whose small business is struggling with virus-imposed restrictions.

But her Democratic primary challenger and her potential GOP opponent said the social media posts on an El Paso business only pose more questions about how committed Roybal Caballero is to her Albuquerque district and if she lives in New Mexico full time.

“I think it’s concerning,” said Edwina Cisneros, who is running against Roybal Caballero in the state’s Democratic primary. “If you live in the district full time, you’d know that businesses here are suffering, too. Why not promote an Albuquerque business? That’s what I’m doing.”

Kayla Renee Marshall, a Republican who is seeking to run against the Democrat for the seat, said it was “unfathomable” an elected official in Albuquerque was promoting an El Paso business when Albuquerque ones could use some help.

“If she’s in El Paso now, it would be harmful to the people she represents,” Marshall said.

“If there’s a special session, she might have to quarantine first for 14 days when she returns to New Mexico.”

Roybal Caballero dismissed the criticism and said she’s living in Albuquerque and social distancing from the rest of the population, as recommended by state officials.

“I am surprised and disappointed that right now, my [opponents are] focused on landing unfounded political hits. We need to be doing what we can to focus on and support our community,” Roybal Caballero said a statement.

She pointed to an Instagram post from her campaign account that promoted an Albuquerque Hispanic grocery store.