Albuquerque mayoral hopefuls face off at Black voters’ forum
By SUSAN MONTOYA BRYAN
Associated Press
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Albuquerque’s struggle with violent crime and escalating homelessness took center stage Monday night as the three candidates running for mayor in New Mexico’s largest city faced off during a forum sponsored by the New Mexico Black Voters Collaborative. Crime has been among the top issues for voters as the city deals with record homicides this year. Incumbent Tim Keller tried to defend his record, pointing to community policing efforts and a new public safety office. He also took aim at fellow Democratic challenger, Bernalillo County Sheriff Manny Gonzales, saying crime is his problem too. Republican candidate Eddy Aragon described the city as being in crisis, saying things need to be turned around.