Battle over the West Mesa

By Trip Jennings 05/21/2008

Several veteran Democratic state lawmakers find themselves in tough primary battles this year.

And one issue their opponents are harping on is their perceived close relationship to big-money developers. As evidence, they point to a June 1 get-out-the-vote rally sponsored by Atrisco Oil & Gas and SunCal companies where three Democratic lawmakers from Albuquerque -- Sen. Linda Lopez, Sen. James Taylor and Rep. Dan Silva -- are featured as special guest speakers.

In an accompanying letter, Atrisco Oil & Gas CEO Peter Sanchez said the company has over the years been working to develop its mineral rights and has done so "without challenge or interruption. I am concerned, however, as our efforts become more widely known, we will become a target of anti-development groups who will attempt to disrupt our activities or even shut us down."

"We feel that this exemplary of ... the kind of insider, big money, special-interest politics the Roundhouse is notorious for," said Tomas Garduno, campaign manager for Eleanor Chavez. Chavez is running against Silva. "In large part, over the course of the past 15 to 20 years we have seen a complete assault on government by special interests, big money, particularly developers who have one interest ... to line their pockets."

Silva, however, said his attendance at the rally shouldn't surprise anyone.

"I've been invited to their functions in the past, probably every year," Silva said. "I haven't always attended. I don't have any problem talking to them."

Silva went on: "I sponsored the bill for SunCal this year. I will sponsor it again if they want me to. It helps people I represent. I am not going to deny helping my constituents."

The Independent left phone messages for Lopez and Taylor that were not returned.

Taylor faces former Albuquerque mayoral candidate Eric Griego in the June 3 primary. Michael Padilla is opposing Lopez.