Commission introduces, then approves, resolution urging defense of U.S. Constitution and separation of powers — 4-1

Bernalillo County commissioners voted 4-1 to introduce and approve a commission-sponsored resolution expressing support for the U.S. Constitution and the separation of powers.

The nut graf: The item drew a sustained public comment segment in which veterans, attorneys and community members urged the commission to signal support for federal legislators challenging executive actions they regard as overreach. The resolution — sponsored by Chair Olivos and Vice Chair Barboa — was introduced and adopted on first reading; commissioners asked staff to adjust wording suggested during debate before the second hearing.

Multiple public speakers urged adoption. Dr. Deborah Potter and veteran Frank Smith told commissioners they saw recent federal actions as unconstitutional and urged local governments to “defend the Constitution.” Daniel Leyva, a recent law-school graduate, and other speakers told the commission the resolution was a local moral statement supporting legal challenges being pursued by the New Mexico Attorney General’s office.

Vice Chair Barboa and Chair Olivos urged adoption as a nonpartisan statement affirming constitutional checks and balances. Commissioner Frank Buck suggested minor wording changes to emphasize that the county “acknowledges” constitutional principles and that the congressional delegation should be encouraged to continue leadership. Commissioner Benson dissented, saying the resolution’s language was partisan and that similar critiques could be leveled at prior administrations; Benson voted no.

The commission asked staff to incorporate suggested edits, including language clarifying the county’s oath to uphold the Constitution and rephrasing where speakers asked for factual framing rather than partisan language. The item passed on voice vote and will return for a final reading with the drafted changes.