Vazquez Faces Criticism Amid Pro-Police Stance

Senator Gabe Vazquez, a Democratic congressman known for representing a fraught border area, is under fire for being labeled “hypocritical.” This comes after resurfaced posts and interviews where he previously called for the “dismantling” and “defunding” of police departments, contrasting sharply with his recent pro-law enforcement rhetoric.

So, who exactly is Vazquez? He identifies as a “moderate Democratic” and has expressed his support for police while voting against resolutions that would criticize funding for police and sanctuary policies. With Republicans holding a slight majority in the House, every contested seat is crucial this midterm election. New Mexico, where Vazquez serves, is particularly seen as a target for Republicans this term.

This week, Vazquez wrote an opinion piece in the Las Cruces Sun-News stating that police officers “deserve appreciation, support, and funding.” He highlighted how funding has bolstered local police departments, asserting, “No amount of public recognition can adequately express the gratitude they deserve.” However, a spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee quickly criticized him, saying, “Gabe Vazquez’s shameless hypocrisy to defund the police fools no one.”

In the wake of George Floyd’s death and the subsequent protests, Vazquez, who was then a member of the Las Cruces City Council, made statements advocating for significant changes in the system. He asserted that true justice wouldn’t be achieved until oppressive systems were dismantled, including law enforcement.

During National Police Week recently, he voted against a resolution that aimed to express support for law enforcement, which praised police efforts and condemned phrases like “defund the police.” Democrats criticized the resolution as overly partisan.

In his latest opinion piece, Vazquez detailed a meeting with local law enforcement leaders and reiterated his support for them. He pointed to significant funding allocations, such as $250,000 for the Carlsbad Police Department and more investments in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County.

Reacting to criticism, a campaign spokesperson pointed out that Vazquez has secured $1.8 million for various police departments this year alone, emphasizing his commitment to public safety through tangible support. They also referenced his tribute on the House floor honoring a fallen deputy sheriff from Doña Ana County.

Yet, critics argue that his previous statements against police could impact his re-election chances. It’s believed that voters in New Mexico remember his anti-law enforcement sentiments, potentially favoring Republican candidate Greg Cunningham. Cunningham, a former police officer, feels strongly that Vazquez’s earlier rhetoric could undermine his current claims of support for law enforcement.

As the election nears, Cunningham has been vocal about his belief that Vazquez’s past will haunt him in the polls. He added that the police community remembers Vazquez’s past statements and that there’s a clear difference between those who show support during photo opportunities and those who genuinely stand behind law enforcement year-round.

With the political landscape shifting and law enforcement discussions becoming central to the campaign narratives, it remains to be seen how Vazquez’s evolving stance will play out in the upcoming election.