The Republican Party of New Mexico’s headquarters in Albuquerque was the target of a violent attack early Sunday morning, in what authorities are calling a deliberate act of arson. The fire, which engulfed the building’s entryway, was quickly contained by firefighters, but the damage left behind is undeniable—a stark reminder of the political hostility gripping the nation.
Adding to the disturbing nature of the crime, the words “ICE = KKK” were spray-painted on an exterior wall of the building, signaling a politically motivated act of aggression. The Republican Party of New Mexico (RPNM) immediately condemned the attack as an act of “hatred and intolerance” aimed at silencing conservative voices.
“Early this morning, the entryway of the Republican Party of New Mexico’s headquarters in Albuquerque was destroyed in a deliberate act of arson which also included spray painting the words ‘ICE = KKK,’” the party stated in a post on X. “This horrific attack, fueled by hatred and intolerance, is a direct assault on our values, freedoms, and our right to political expression.”
Amy Barela, the chairwoman of the New Mexico GOP, expressed relief that no one was injured in what she described as a “potentially deadly attack.” However, she also made it clear that such violent acts cannot and will not be tolerated.
“We are deeply relieved that no one was harmed in what could have been a tragic and deadly attack,” Barela said. “Those who resort to violence to undermine our state and nation must be held accountable, and our state leaders must reinforce through decisive action that these cowardly attacks will not be tolerated.”
Barela also emphasized that the party is actively working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), as well as local and federal law enforcement agencies, to ensure that those responsible for this crime are brought to justice.
While the Democratic Party of New Mexico condemned the attack, its response was notably lukewarm. A spokesperson for the state’s Democratic Party, Daniel Garcia, stated that they hope “whoever is responsible is found and held accountable.”
“We firmly maintain that this sort of act has absolutely no place in our democracy, and that peaceful discourse and organization are the only ways to approach political differences in our country,” Garcia said.
Although their words denounced the attack, some conservatives have pointed out that the broader political climate—fueled by leftist rhetoric—has emboldened radical elements to take violent action against Republicans and conservative institutions.
According to Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR) and Bernalillo County Fire Rescue, crews responded to a structure fire call shortly before 6:00 a.m. The fire was reportedly “brought under control within five minutes,” preventing further destruction.
Despite the damage, Barela made it clear that this attack will not deter the Republican Party in New Mexico. Instead, she vowed that it would only strengthen their resolve.
“The Republican Party of New Mexico will not be silenced. We will emerge from this stronger, more united, and more determined to fight for the people of New Mexico and the future of our country,” she stated.
This latest act of political violence is part of a troubling pattern that has seen conservative organizations, politicians, and supporters increasingly targeted. From attacks on Republican campaign offices to harassment of conservative figures, it is clear that radical elements are escalating their attempts to silence the right.
Barela did not hold back in reminding Americans of the Democratic Party’s historical ties to racist organizations and policies.
“Let us not forget: it was the Democrat Party that once supported the formation of the KKK, pushed Jim Crow laws, and defended slavery.”
As conservatives, we must stand firm in the face of such hostility and continue to champion our values—faith, freedom, and family. The fight for America’s future is far from over, and this attack serves as a sobering reminder of what is at stake.