CD-1 Blowout, Vax Sweepstakes & ABQ’s Home for Life

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This week on New Mexico in Focus, The Line opinion panel talks takeaways from the special election for New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District. With the eyes of the national political crowd on Albuquerque and the rest of the district, Democratic candidate Melanie Stansbury ran away with the election, hitting the 60 percent mark over three more conservative challengers. The opinion panel also discusses New Mexico’s vaccination push – which added a cash sweepstakes to the effort this week – and the rising homicide rate in Albuquerque. 

Senior producer Matt Grubs has a pair of interviews, as Albuquerque Journal photojournalist Dean Hanson calls it a career after 35 years at the paper. Hanson looks back at his experience and shares some of his favorite images. Looking to leverage what has traditionally been a low cost of living and affordable housing market, the City of Albuquerque is expanding its “Home for Life” program. The effort seeks to lure former residents and remote workers to New Mexico. But, a booming housing market means homes are harder to find than ever before. 

Host: Gene Grant

The Line Opinion Panel:
Merritt Allen, Vox Optima public relations 
Dan Foley, former state representative 
Eric Griego, former state senator

Segments:
Albuquerque Journal Photo Editor Retires 
Correspondent: Matt Grubs, NMiF senior producer 
Guest: Dean Hanson, photojournalist 

Albuquerque Expands ‘Home for Life’ Program 
Correspondent: Matt Grubs, NMiF senior producer 
Guest: Synthia Jaramillo, Albuquerque Economic Development Department