It is the topic of conversation from family breakfast nooks, to talk radio outlets across the land: health care reform. This week on NEW MEXICO IN FOCUS, find out what two of our state leaders think about the issue.

First, find out what Representative Ben Ray Lujan has to say about his recent public forum on health care reform.

Then David Alire Garcia sits down one-on-one with U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman .

Then, THE LINE panelists sound off on the various strategies for framing the health care reform debate, new revelations in the firing of former U.S. Attorney David Iglesias, and the growing controversy over police use of taser guns.

Plus, what would drive someone to run for Albuquerque mayor as a write-in candidate? Hear Donna Rowe’s candidate comments about her campaign.

New Mexico in Focus is on hiatus this week and next week during KNME’s August Pledge drive.  But, that doesn’t mean we aren’t hard at work!  We’ve been busy contacting all of our congressional leaders to see if we can catch up with them during the August break.  Just looking at the headlines recently, and you can understand there’s a lot to talk with them about!

Kudos to Senator Jeff Bingaman for being the first to take us up on our offer.  He was barely off the plane from D.C. on Friday when he sat down to talk to us. David asked him about health care reform, as well as the controversial “cash for clunkers” program.  You can watch the interview in its entirety below.

Hopefully our other congressional leaders will also take us up on our offer.  When they do, look for the interviews here!

Kevin McDonald

The Public Affairs Team