Fernandez, Teresa RSS Articles

Congresswomen Teresa Leger Fernández and Kat Cammack Announce Bipartisan Partnership to Combat Workplace Sexual Misconduct in Congress

Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswomen Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) and Kat Cammack (FL-03) along with Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08) and Speaker Mike Johnson (LA-04) today announced a bipartisan partnership between the Democratic Women’s Caucus and Republican Women’s Caucus to combat workplace sexual misconduct in Congress. The two Caucuses will work together to identify reforms and solutions to make Congress a safer work environment for women and all survivors.

As the Chairs of the Democratic and Republican Women’s Caucuses in the House, Rep. Leger Fernández and Rep. Cammack were designated by Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Speaker Mike Johnson respectively to lead this bipartisan effort. Next steps and any proposed reforms will be done in coordination with House Administration Committee Chairman Bryan Steil (WI-01) and Ranking Member Joe Morelle (NY-25), who will both participate in this effort in an ex-officio capacity.

“All women deserve a safe working environment—including the brilliant public servants who work in Congress. That’s why the Democratic Women’s Caucus and Republican Women’s Caucus are partnering to address the procedural and cultural problems that have led to pervasive sexual misconduct on Capitol Hill. Together, we will push for bipartisan changes to make the reporting process faster and more accessible and increase education and training resources, prioritizing staff and survivors at every step. This effort builds on the work of members of the DWC, who have pushed for better support and protections for survivors for years. We bring that expertise and dedication to this partnership," said Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03).

“It is sickening that Congressmen sexually harassed and assaulted women staff instead of treating them with the respect they deserved. We know these women are not alone—women across America have been sexually assaulted and harassed by men at work who think they will never face any consequences. We will continue to stand with survivors, break the silence, and fight for a future free of sexual misconduct—in Congress and everywhere across this country.”

"No woman — regardless of party, title, or position — should ever feel unsafe in her workplace. Period,” said Republican Women’s Caucus Chair Kat Cammack (FL-03). “As Chair of the Republican Women’s Caucus, I am proud to be leading a bipartisan effort alongside the Democratic Women’s Caucus to take a hard look at the systems, reporting mechanisms, and workplace culture on Capitol Hill surrounding sexual harassment and assault. This effort has the support of Speaker Johnson and Leader Jeffries because this issue transcends politics. It’s about dignity, accountability, and ensuring that every person who comes to work in the People’s House is treated with respect and protected from abuse. The reality is that coming forward is extraordinarily difficult. Fear of retaliation, damage to careers, public scrutiny, and institutional pressure often silence victims long before justice has a chance to speak. We cannot claim to support women while ignoring the very real barriers that prevent them from reporting misconduct in the first place. Yes, bad actors must be held accountable and removed when warranted. But if we are serious about fixing this problem, we also have to confront the environment that allowed the behavior to occur, persist, or be concealed. Accountability cannot begin and end with punishment after the fact. It must include prevention, transparency, education, and systems people can actually trust. Congress should set the standard — not lag behind it. This effort is about restoring confidence that Capitol Hill is a workplace where professionalism, respect, and safety are non-negotiable. Every staffer, intern, employee, and Member deserves that.”

“Led by Reps. Teresa Leger Fernandez and Kat Cammack, the principled effort to end sexual violence and harassment in Congress has the complete and unequivocal support of the House Democratic Caucus,” said Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08). “All women and survivors working on Capitol Hill and in district offices throughout the country must always be treated with dignity and respect. We support an ironclad policy so we can bring about a safe, professional atmosphere for all Congressional staff members. I am thankful for the efforts of all the members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus and look forward to the urgent work that must be done by this bipartisan group to end sexual violence and harassment.”

“To state the obvious, all women should feel comfortable and safe working in the halls of Congress. As a father who has two daughters working on Capitol Hill — this is as personal to me as it is to anyone," said Speaker Mike Johnson (LA-04). "I am happy that Reps. Cammack and Leger Fernández, the respective chairs of the Republican and Democratic Women's Caucuses, will lead this bipartisan partnership to find ways we can continue to make Capitol Hill safer for women and all staff.”

Leger Fernández, Luján, Davids, Bacon Lead Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Wrongful Detention of Native Americans During ICE Enforcement

Tue, 12 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Leger Fernández, Luján, Davids, Bacon Lead Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Wrongful Detention of Native Americans During ICE Enforcement

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM-03), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs, Sharice Davids (D-KS-03), and Don Bacon (R-NE-02) and U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs introduced the bipartisan Respect Tribal IDs Act to improve how Department of Homeland Security (DHS) personnel recognize and interact with Tribal identification documents during immigration enforcement. The legislation comes amid growing reports of Native Americans being questioned, delayed, or detained after federal officers failed to recognize valid Tribal IDs and documentation as proof of citizenship.

The Respect Tribal IDs Act would require DHS, in coordination with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Tribal Nations, to develop standardized training for officers and employees involved in immigration enforcement. The training would include how to identify Tribal documents, when Tribal IDs qualify as proof of U.S. citizenship, proper protocols for interacting with enrolled Tribal members, and the federal government’s trust responsibility to Tribal Nations. The bill also requires DHS to create region-specific guidance and reference materials for officers, including examples of Tribal IDs used by federally recognized Tribes in areas where agents operate. Officers would be required to complete the training annually and whenever they are reassigned to a new region.

“We’ve seen Trump’s Department of Homeland Security violate the rights of the first Americans countless times. Indigenous people in New Mexico and across the country have been unfairly questioned, harassed, and detained. This bill will require that DHS officers be trained to recognize Tribal IDs and prevent wrongful detentions,” said Representative Leger Fernández. “All law enforcement officials must respect tribal governments and the documents they provide their citizens. ICE and CBP agents must follow the law and respect tribal sovereignty.”

“In New Mexico and across the country, our Tribal brothers and sisters deserve to be treated with dignity and respect,” said Senator Luján. “Under the Trump administration, we’ve seen disturbing incidents where Tribal members were stopped, questioned, and harassed by ICE officers simply because of their appearance or because officers failed to recognize their Tribal IDs. That is unacceptable and deeply wrong. To address these failures, my legislation would establish clear standards and ensure DHS officers are properly trained to recognize and accept Tribal IDs. No one should have to fear being harassed because of a failure in training or accountability.”

“Tribal sovereignty is a legal and constitutional recognition of Tribal Nations and their citizens, and the federal government has a responsibility to respect that,” said Representative Davids. “But lately, we’ve seen troubling reports of Native Americans being questioned or detained because federal officers lacked the training needed to recognize tribal documentation or understand Tribal Nation citizenship. This bipartisan bill is about preventing those failures, improving training and accountability, and making sure all people are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

“The Respect Tribal IDs Act is a commonsense bill to ensure DHS personnel are properly trained to recognize Tribal IDs and work respectfully with Tribal communities,” said Representative Bacon. “Federal agencies have a responsibility to protect and support Tribal citizens, and this legislation helps ensure they do that.”

“The National Congress of American Indians supports this legislation to ensure that federal agents within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security are properly trained to recognize and respect Tribal identification documents,” said Larry Wright, Executive Director, National Congress of American Indians (NCAI). “Too often, the lack of consistent training has led to confusion, delays, and the improper treatment of Tribal citizens. By requiring comprehensive training on Tribal IDs, this bill affirms the validity of Tribal governments and strengthens the federal trust responsibility. NCAI urges its passage to promote respectful interactions, enhance security, and uphold the rights of Tribal citizens.”

The legislation follows multiple high-profile incidents and reports involving Native Americans whose Tribal documentation was reportedly rejected or questioned during federal enforcement encounters. Tribal leaders and advocates have raised concerns that inconsistent training and lack of familiarity with Tribal IDs have contributed to wrongful stops and confusion involving U.S. citizens, particularly in border states and regions with large Native populations. The legislation seeks to establish clearer standards and prevent future incidents by ensuring federal personnel are properly trained before conducting enforcement activities.

Congresswoman Leger Fernández has repeatedly confronted the Trump administration’s abuses of Native Americans. She secured language in the FY26 House Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee Bill Report for DHS to support Tribal governmental competency training to reduce immigration enforcement encounters with Native Americans. She also led a letter to President Trump in January 2025, demanding a stop to the unconscionable ICE Harassment and racial profiling of Native American Citizens. She further publicly sounded the alarm about ICE’s abuses against Native Americans through informing and questioning the House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole, about the issue. Additionally, she is leading a FY27 Homeland Security Appropriations request with 12 other Members for the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC), in collaboration with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, to provide tribal government competency training for federal immigration enforcement officers. Further, she is working with Tribal leadership and continuously bringing attention to the Trump administration’s ICE racial profiling, harassment, and detention of Native Americans.

Following major DHS scandals, Senator Luján introduced legislation to hold ICE and CBP accountable, increase transparency, and make communities safer. Senator Luján opposed the confirmation of Senator Markwayne Mullin to serve as DHS Secretary. Senator Luján also voted against Kristi Noem’s confirmation as DHS Secretary and successfully pushed for her ouster. Additionally in January 2025, Senator Luján joined Representative Leger Fernández in a letter to President Trump demanding immediate action to address reports of ICE agents harassing, detaining, and questioning Native American Tribal members about their citizenship.

Full bill text is available here.

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Leger Fernández, Newhouse Introduce Resolution Designating National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls

Mon, 04 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM) and Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced a resolution to designate May 5, 2026, as a National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

"The U.S. can no longer look away from the pain and injustice endured by Indigenous families whose mothers, daughters, sisters, and relatives have gone missing or been murdered," said Rep. Leger Fernández. "Honoring the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls is one way to bring national attention to this issue. This crisis exists because we have not created or enforced the laws to protect Indigenous women and children from predators. As a nation, we have a moral responsibility to invest in services for Indian Country so there are no more stolen sisters and no more stolen joy."

“Indigenous women and girls continue to face heightened violence that is tearing families and communities apart," said Rep. Newhouse.

"In Washington State alone, there are dozens of open cases of Missing Indigenous Women and Girls, while many of these crimes go under reported or un-reported nationwide. Recognizing May 5, 2026, as a National Day of Awareness shines a light on this epidemic and serves as a reminder to Congress that we must support our threatened native communities and better equip them to solve these heinous crimes. I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for joining me in raising awareness to this critical issue."

Leger Fernández and Newhouse were joined by Reps. Maria Salazar (R-FL), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Mike Thompson (D-CA), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Ed Case (D-HI), Julie Fedorchak (R-SD), Mike Simpson (R-ID), Jake Ellzey (R-TX), Jeff Hurd (R-CO), Stephanie Bice (R-OK), Andy Biggs (R-AZ) and Eli Crane (R-AZ).

The resolution is also supported by the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), Midwest Alliance of Sovereign Tribes, Yakama Nation, Seattle Indian Health Board, Urban Indian Health Institute, National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center, and Muscogee (Creek) Nation.

Hazen Shopbell, Chair of the Tulalip Tribes said, “The Tulalip Tribes stand in solidarity with Tribal Nations across the country in recognizing May 5 as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. We thank Congressman Dan Newhouse for his continued leadership in bringing national attention to this crisis and for introducing this important resolution. The epidemic of violence against our Native women, girls, and relatives continues to impact every Tribal community and demands sustained, meaningful action. We call on Congress to uphold its trust responsibility by strengthening Tribal sovereignty, fully recognizing Tribal jurisdiction, and ensuring Tribes have the resources needed to protect our people. Today, and every day, we honor the lives taken too soon, stand with the families who continue to seek justice, and renew our commitment to building a future where our communities are safe—where there are no more stolen sisters.”

Dustin Klatush, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation said, "The resolution shines a necessary light on a crisis that our tribal communities have endured for decades. The Chehalis Tribe is hopeful that the federal government can prioritize the deployment of resources to tribal communities to resolve cases of missing and murdered women and girls. The Chehalis Tribe appreciates Congressman Newhouse's attention to and efforts to change federal policy to improve tribal law enforcement."

Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation said,"The Colville Tribes appreciates and supports the continued efforts of Rep. Dan Newhouse to keep attention focused on the problem of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls. The Colville Tribes supports the designation of a ‘National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls’ and continues to support a federal MMIW law enforcement presence specifically dedicated to serve the Pacific Northwest."

Shannon Holsey, President of the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians said, “The continued disappearance and murder of Indigenous women and girls is a national failure that demands more than symbolism—it demands action. I strongly commend Congressman Newhouse for reintroducing this resolution to designate May 5, 2026, as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. This crisis reflects a continued failure to fully uphold the federal trust responsibility to Tribal Nations. While laws such as Savanna’s Act and the Not Invisible Act were critical steps forward, awareness must now translate into accountability, coordination across jurisdictions, and sustained action to protect Indigenous women and girls.”

Gerald Lewis, Chairman, Yakama Nation Tribal Council said, "The Yakama Nation appreciates Congressman Newhouse’s steadfast commitment to acknowledging and addressing the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous people throughout Indian Country. The burden of having missing and murdered relatives at such distressingly high rates causes immense pain for the people of the Yakama Nation and other tribal nations with large land bases – as we lack the resources to adequately patrol our vast territories. There are many actions that could assist in combating this issue that continues to engrain generational trauma into our people – and progress is being made. To accomplish this, support must be provided to tribal nations' public safety, law enforcement, and justice systems through legislative action and collaboration from all governing bodies; regardless of whether they are at the local, state or federal level. Together we can work to bring our people home and ensure justice."

Bazil-Lu Windy Boy, Yakama Nation Tribal Council, Chair for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Committee said, "Indian Country has dealt with unacceptably high levels of crime and harm against our people for far too long. Too many families grieve the loss of a loved one, with no justice or closure to comfort them, because of shortfalls that obstruct initiatives that could combat this crisis. I’ve seen this pain first hand from my time as a tribal police officer and as a member of the Not Invisible Act Commission which developed recommendations on actions the federal government can take to help combat violent crime against Native people and within Indian lands, and to address the MMIP epidemic. The Yakama Nation and tribes across the United States are in immediate need of resources for safety measures and justice services to protect our communities. We appreciate Congressman Newhouse's ongoing work to address the obstacles to Tribal sovereignty and public safety improvements we face today. We must continue working to make our communities safer for current and future generations and ensure that our loved ones and neighbors return home safely every night.”

Lucy R. Simpson, CEO, National Indigenous Women's Resource Center (NIWRC) said, "The National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) honors all American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian women and relatives who have been abducted, murdered, or have gone missing,” said Lucy R. Simpson, CEO, National Indigenous Women's Resource Center (NIWRC). “This day provides a space for families and communities to raise awareness, seek justice, heal, and advocate for lasting change and accountability. NIWRC strongly supports the designation of May 5, 2026 as the National Day of Awareness for MMIWG."

Full text of the resolution can be found here.

Leger Fernandez Effort to Force Resignation of Reps. Gonzales and Swalwell Over Sexual Misconduct Succeeds

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — After calls for accountability led by Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Reps. Tony Gonzales and Eric Swalwell announced their resignations from Congress today amid serious allegations of sexual misconduct.

Leger Fernández was among the first Members to publicly call for resignation and, if they refused, for expulsion. She announced her resolution to force a vote on Gonzales’ expulsion, which would have been filed tomorrow.

Leger Fernández was working alongside Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, a Republican from Florida, who was filing a resolution to expel Swalwell. This was a bipartisan effort to hold both men accountable.

To avoid the expulsion votes, Gonzales and Swalwell each announced their resignation—or in the case of Gonzales, “retirement."

Gonzales has failed to state when his “retirement” would begin. This evening, Rep. Leger Fernandez reasserted she's not backing down. She intends to file her resolution to expel Gonzales tomorrow unless his resignation from Congress is made effective immediately.

“Men in power too often count on silence. They count on fear. They fail to recognize the power of women when they break that silence and stand with each other to demand consequences.

From the moment these deeply disturbing allegations came to light, I made clear that anyone who abuses the power of their office to prey on staff is not fit to serve in Congress. Staff come to this institution to serve the American people, not to be exploited, manipulated, or abused by the very people who hold power over their livelihoods.

There is no such thing as consent when the imbalance of power is this profound. A Member of Congress controls a staffer’s employment, salary, benefits, future opportunities, and their day-to-day working conditions. That power can never be separated from the harm inflicted in these sexual abuse cases.

I believe these survivors and their voices cannot be ignored. Today’s resignations are the direct result of survivors’ courage and the refusal to allow powerful men to escape accountability. They are a direct result of the Resolutions Rep. Luna and I were filing tomorrow. Congress must be a place of public service, dignity, and respect, not abuse.

But the work does not end here.

Our responsibility is larger than any one resignation. We must protect staff, strengthen accountability, and make clear that no one in a position of power is above consequences.

This is not the end," said Leger Fernandez.

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Leger Fernández Condemns Rep. Eric Swalwell; Calls for Support for Survivors

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) released a statement following reports of sexual misconduct by Rep. Eric Swalwell (CA-14):

“The reports of sexual assault perpetrated by Rep. Eric Swalwell are horrific. My heart is first and foremost with the brave women who have come forward. We stand with you. We know that women in this country are too often silenced by men with power — it must end. Rep. Swalwell’s actions would not be tolerated in any place of work, and the United States Congress should be no different. We must believe and support survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable. There must be an investigation immediately and the staffers and interns who courageously came forward must be listened to and kept safe.”

Leger Fernández, Luján Demand Accountability at Meeting with New Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office Leadership

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Santa Fe, N.M. – U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) and U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) issued the following statement after meeting with FEMA and Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office leadership:

“As the sponsors of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act, we fought to establish the Claims Office and secure $5.45 billion to help New Mexicans rebuild. Since the fire, we have consistently pressed FEMA to speed up relief and answer for the unacceptable delays families continue to face.

“Yesterday, we met with the new leadership at the Claims Office to get answers. The Director committed to sharing regular reports with Congress and the public detailing how the office will speed up the claims process and deliver payments without further delay. We made clear that New Mexicans deserve transparency.

“We learned that $3.44 billion has been paid out in claims, and we have requested a report on the number of claims still pending and an estimated timeframe for their resolution. The new leadership also committed to providing more timely communication and prioritizing total loss and burn scar claims.

“We are hopeful that the new leadership will move this process forward faster and with the respect that our communities deserve. We will continue our advocacy until New Mexicans who lost everything get the relief they deserve.”

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Leger Fernández, Luján, Heinrich Call on Forest Service Opposing Carson National Forest Uranium Drilling Proposal and Demanding Full Environmental Review to Protect Chama Watershed

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

NEW MEXICO – U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), a member of the House Committee on Natural Resources, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, wrote to Carson National Forest Supervisor James Duran expressing strong opposition to a proposal to conduct uranium drilling within the Carson National Forest. The lawmakers also urged the Forest Service to require a full Environmental Impact Statement and requsted that the Forest Service suspend its review pending congressional action to protect the Chama watershed from mineral development.

“We strongly oppose approval of this action and urge the ForestService to require a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) before taking any further action on this proposal,” wrote the lawmakers.

“We plan to introduce legislation to withdraw the Chama watershed from all forms of mineral entry. We urge the Forest Service to take that legislative effort into account as it evaluates this proposal,” continued the lawmakers.

“The communities of the Chama Valley — acequia farmers, tribal members, ranchers, and rural families — have tended this watershed for generations. The Forest Service has both the authority and the responsibility to ensure that decisions affecting their water, their land, and their future are made with the care, science, and respect those communities deserve,” concluded the lawmakers.

Also copied on the letter were leaders of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), including the Secretary of Agriculture, the Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment, the Chief of the U.S. Forest Service, the Associate Chief of the U.S. Forest Service, and the Regional Forester for the Southwestern Region of the USDA Forest Service.

The full letter can be found here or below:

Attention Carson National Forest Supervisor Duran:

We write on behalf of the communities of northern New Mexico to express serious concerns regarding efforts filed by Gamma Resources Ltd. earlier this year seeking authorization to conduct exploratory uranium drilling within the Carson National Forest near Canjilon, New Mexico. We strongly oppose approval of this action and urge the Forest Service to require a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) before taking any further action on this proposal. We also request that the Forest Service suspend its review pending congressional action to protect the Chama watershed from mineral development.

It has come to our attention that Gamma Resources Ltd. — a Vancouver-based company traded on the TSX Venture Exchange — has proposed drilling up to twelve exploratory boreholes up to 500 feet deep within the Carson National Forest as part of what the company calls its "Mesa Arc Project." The company has identified a four-mile stretch of the Chama Basin as a target for uranium extraction, and has stated publicly its intent to ultimately extract uranium from this area, not merely explore it. The exploratory phase, if approved, would involve construction of temporary drill pads, approximately 800 feet of new road cuts, and heavy equipment staging — all within one of the most water-sensitive landscapes in New Mexico.

We plan to introduce legislation to withdraw the Chama watershed from all forms of mineral entry. We urge the Forest Service to take that legislative effort into account as it evaluates this proposal.

The Carson National Forest rises above the villages of the Chama Valley and serves as the headwaters for the water systems that feed acequia ditches, community wells, and agricultural operations throughout the region. The Chama River is a principal tributary of the Rio Grande and a critical source of water for communities across northern New Mexico. What occurs on Carson National Forest lands directly determines the quality and quantity of water available downstream to acequia parciantes (water rights holders), ranchers, tribal communities, and families who depend on shallow wells with no alternative water source.

This watershed is not simply an environmental amenity. It is critical water infrastructure — as essential to the communities of northern New Mexico as any road, pipe, or reservoir. Acequia irrigation systems in the Chama Valley have continuously sustained agricultural production and community identity for more than 400 years. Tribal nations have exercised cultural, ceremonial, and subsistence ties to this landscape since time immemorial. The integrity of this watershed is inseparable from the economic survival and cultural continuity of the people who live here.

Uranium is not an ordinary hard-rock mineral. Once uranium or associated contaminants enter an aquifer or stream system, remediation is technically complex, extraordinarily expensive, and may require decades of work — or may not be achievable at all. New Mexico bears a disproportionate and well-documented legacy of harm from uranium mining. Hundreds of abandoned uranium mines on and near tribal lands, particularly within the Navajo Nation, have contaminated water sources and resulted in elevated rates of kidney disease and cancer among affected communities. The federal government has spent hundreds of millions of dollars attempting to remediate legacy uranium contamination sites in New Mexico, and significant contamination remains unaddressed decades after mining operations ceased.

Even at the exploratory stage, this proposal carries real risk. New road cuts and drill pad construction increase erosion and sedimentation in a watershed that feeds gravity-fed acequia systems where even small changes in sediment load can mean a lost agricultural season. Monsoon rains — increasingly intense under drought conditions — can mobilize surface disturbance rapidly. For families on shallow wells, a single contamination event can permanently alter daily life.

We understand you are currently determining whether Gamma's proposal would cause "significant surface disturbance" requiring a full NEPA review. We urge the Forest Service to make that determination affirmatively and promptly. The factors present here — uranium exploration in a sensitive watershed, proximity to acequia-dependent agricultural communities, adjacency to tribal cultural resources, and a company whose stated ultimate goal is extraction, not merely exploration — collectively demand the most rigorous level of environmental review available under federal law.

Specifically, we request that any NEPA review address the following questions before approving any plans:

1. What is the baseline water quality in the affected watershed, including groundwater, prior to any surface disturbance, and who will be responsible for ongoing monitoring?

2. What are the specific pathways by which uranium or associated contaminants could reach acequia headgates, surface streams, and shallow aquifers relied upon by nearby communities?

3. What financial assurance mechanisms will ensure that Gamma Resources Ltd. — a junior mining company with no current production revenue — can cover full remediation costs in the event of contamination?

4. How will the Forest Service ensure meaningful government-to-government consultation with affected tribal nations, including consultation that occurs before, not after, any surface disturbance is authorized?

5. What is the cumulative impact of this proposal considered alongside other uranium exploration and development activity currently proposed or underway in New Mexico?

Gamma Resources Ltd. is a Canadian company, incorporated in Vancouver and traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange Venture Exchange. Its investors and executives are not accountable to New Mexico communities, and its financial interests are not aligned with the long-term health of the Chama watershed. The company's own investor materials describe New Mexico's "historical deposits" as "low-hanging fruit" — language that reflects an extractive calculus, not a commitment to stewardship. Notably, the company has cycled through two name changes in just over a year — operating as Medallion Resources until February 2024, then as Gabo Mining until June 2025 — and its auditors have repeatedly flagged a "going concern" warning, citing an accumulated deficit of nearly $29 million and no revenue from operations, raising serious questions about whether this company has the financial foundation to responsibly develop, and ultimately reclaim, a uranium mine in the headwaters of the Rio Chama.

The administration has framed domestic uranium production as an energy security priority. But energy security built on the contamination of tribal water systems and century-old acequia infrastructure is not security — it is the transfer of risk from a foreign company's shareholders to New Mexico's rural communities. The Chama watershed's clean water is itself a critical resource, one that cannot be replaced if lost.

We urge the Forest Service to require a full Environmental Impact Statement for Gamma Resources Ltd.'s proposed Mesa Arc Project, including a draft EIS with a public comment period; to conduct robust, meaningful government-to-government consultation with all affected tribal nations before any permit decision; to require comprehensive baseline water quality testing throughout the affected watershed before any surface disturbance is authorized; and to suspend further permitting action pending the outcome of congressional consideration of legislation to withdraw the Chama watershed from mineral entry.

The communities of the Chama Valley — acequia farmers, tribal members, ranchers, and rural families — have tended this watershed for generations. The Forest Service has both the authority and the responsibility to ensure that decisions affecting their water, their land, and their future are made with the care, science, and respect those communities deserve.

We welcome the opportunity to discuss these concerns further and request a briefing from Forest Service staff on the current status of the agency's review.

Sincerely,

Leger Fernández Statement on Trump’s Threat to Kill a Whole Civilization

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) today called for immediate action to remove President Trump following his threat that “a whole civilization will die tonight” as war escalates in Iran.

"A President who threatens to commit war crimes and kill millions of civilians, profits off the destruction he unleashes, and illegally destroys the freedoms Americans cherish has clearly demonstrated that he should not lead our Nation," said Leger Fernandez. "He is unhinged, unfit, and making Americans less safe."

"Trump must be stopped. He must be removed. The Constitution gives Republicans in the Cabinet the power to remove him under the 25th Amendment. Republicans in Congress hold the power to impeach him. They have the power to stop this madness."

"What will my Republican colleagues do? Do you support his war crime threats? And if not, will you use your power to stop this?"

"Republicans in Congress will only act when all of us—especially Republican voters—make our voices heard. The people have the greatest power in our Constitution, and we must speak up now. We must demand accountability for Trump’s dangerous actions and push Republican leaders to finally have the courage to do what is right."

"I call on Republicans to bring Congress back into session to pass a War Powers Resolution to stop his illegal war, and to impeach him now. We must act before it’s too late," she concluded.

Congresswoman Leger Fernández and N.M. Delegation Respond to Trump Administration’s New Actions to Undo Protections for the Greater Chaco Region

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), U.S. Representative Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez alongside (D-N.M.)U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) released the following statements regarding the Trump administration’s new actions to eliminate protections for the Greater Chaco Region that safeguard the area from new oil and gas leasing, undoing a 20-year mineral withdrawal that has kept public lands surrounding Chaco Culture National Historical Park off-limits to new development.

Yesterday, the Trump administration committed to conducting an environmental assessment within 90 days and finalizing Tribal consultation on historic preservation within 30 days. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is only granting seven days for organizations and individuals to submit scoping comments before proceeding with the environmental review.

“Chaco Canyon is not just a place on a map, it is a sacred, living landscape that carries the history, culture, and identity for many Tribal communities,” said Leger Fernández, Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs. “We secured the protections for the Greater Chaco Region, which includes over 4,700 archaeological sites, through a thorough and inclusive process. The Trump administration’s rushed attempt to roll back the protections blatantly disregards the careful consideration that such a sacred and historical site like Chaco Canyon deserves. The administration is willing to destroy irreplaceable artifacts for a molecule of gas that could be found on other federal lands across the San Juan Basin.”

“Chaco Canyon is sacred. As the Trump Administration rushes to push through oil and gas leasing in the greater Chaco Landscape—they announced yesterday that they will give just ONE WEEK for public comment on removing protections for this sacred place. This is unconscionable,” said Stansbury, Member of the House Committee on Natural Resources and Democratic Vice-Chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus. “This Administration’s attempt to push leasing without comprehensive tribal consultation and meaningful community engagement threatens a landscape that has been home to Pueblo and Diné people for thousands of years, since time immemorial. That’s why we are fighting to ensure it is protected for generations to come. We need your voices to continue speaking up, speaking out, and supporting Chaco Canyon!”

“This administration continues to show its deep contempt for Indian Country, this time seeking to undo protections for the Chaco Canyon landscape, going against the will of New Mexico’s Pueblos. Chaco is an irreplaceable and sacred landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a place that deserves protection. There are appropriate places to develop oil and gas, and this is not one of them,” said Vasquez.

“Chaco Canyon is a living cultural landscape that holds deep historical meaning and is a sacred space for many of our New Mexico Tribes,” said Heinrich, Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and co-founder of the U.S. Senate Stewardship Caucus. “It is not just one more place to drill. The disrespect shown by the Trump administration toward New Mexicans seems to know no bounds.”

“Allowing just seven days for public comment on the fate of a 1,000-year-old sacred site is inadequate and disgraceful. I’ve spent my career working to secure lasting protections for Chaco Canyon and the Greater Chaco Region through real consultation and meaningful public input,” said Luján, a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.“The Trump administration is doing the opposite — jamming a comment period into Holy Week and limiting public participation to online-only access, all while Pueblos are in the midst of preparations for sensitive cultural activities. This is unacceptable, and I will continue pushing back against this administration’s attempts to undermine Tribal sovereignty.”

Located in northwestern New Mexico, the Greater Chaco landscape is a region of great cultural, spiritual, and historical significance to many Pueblos and Tribes that contains living sacred sites. Chaco was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and is one of only 26 such sites in the United States.

The New Mexico Congressional Delegation has worked tirelessly to permanently protect Chaco Canyon.

Last November, Heinrich, Luján, and Stansbury hosted a press conference with Pueblo leaders on the steps needed to be taken to permanently protect the landscape. Earlier that same month, the N.M. Congressional Delegation sent a letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, urging the Trump administration to reverse course on its decision to initiate the process to fully revoke Public Land Order (PLO) No. 7923, which currently protects the area around Chaco Canyon from oil and gas drilling.

Last September, the N.M. Delegation hosted a press conference in front of the U.S. Capitol with 20 Governors and leaders from the Santa Ana, Picuris, Cochiti, Zia, Tesuque, Acoma, Santo Domingo, and Laguna Pueblos to demand the Trump administration permanently protect Chaco Canyon, and to invite U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to visit the Greater Chaco landscape before deciding its fate. Watch the video of the full press conference here.

Last June, the N.M. Delegation sent a letter initially inviting Secretary Burgum to visit Chaco Canyon before deciding its fate and engage directly with Tribal leaders and local communities to hear directly about the profound cultural and spiritual significance of this sacred landscape. Secretary Burgum issued the directive to begin revoking the protections and decided the fate of Chaco Canyon without experiencing it firsthand. Following Secretary Burgum’s directive, the N.M. Delegation sent a letter urging the Trump administration to reverse course on its decision to initiate the process to fully revoke Chaco Canyon’s protections.

Last April, the N.M. Delegation reintroduced legislation to protect Chaco Canyon and the greater sacred landscape surrounding the Chaco Culture National Historical Park. The legislation was led by Leger Fernández in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senator Luján in the U.S. Senate.

Leger Fernández Opposes Blank Check for ICE; Reiterates Pay for TSA, Coast Guard, FEMA Bill Must Be Passed

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández released the following statement after voting against H. Res. 1128 and opposing efforts to tie funding for critical homeland security agencies to unchecked authority for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE):

“I support the mission of agencies from TSA to the Coast Guard, and FEMA to the Cybersecurity Infrastructure Security Agency, " said Leger Fernández. “That’s why I’ve consistently pushed to fund them—and voted to make sure TSA agents, Coast Guard members, and FEMA personnel get paid and can do their jobs. But I will not vote to give more money to ICE and CBP while they refuse to follow the law.

Right now, Republicans want to hand ICE more power without requiring it to respect basic Constitutional rights. Every other law enforcement agency in the country is required to follow the Constitution—they cannot barge into your home without a warrant; they cannot use excessive force or kill you for exercising your free speech. Americans know it is wrong to give away these basic constitutional protections to anyone—especially not agents who hide behind masks.

If ICE can barge into homes, then no one’s rights are safe. Not yours. Not mine. No one’s.

The only reason Republicans would oppose these guardrails is because they expect ICE to violate them. At the same time, Republicans have admitted this isn’t about resources—ICE and CBP received $140 billion from OBBBA. Their agents are being paid, and they have money to operate for years to come.

That’s why I voted against H. Res. 1128. I reject the idea that we have to choose between funding critical security agencies and writing a blank check to a broken ICE. There is a better path—and members of both parties know it. House Democrats and many Republicans agree: we can fund DHS agencies like TSA, FEMA, and cybersecurity operations right now, without rewarding an agency that needs reform.

The best way to get our TSA workers paid is to pass the bill that I cosponsored in the House and that Senate Democrats have voted on 10 times.

Passing our bill, paying TSA workers will shorten airport lines and help us prepare for wildfire season,” she concluded.

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