SANTA FE, N.M. — Thousands of demonstrators gathered outside the El Dorado Hotel in Santa Fe on Monday to protest a controversial proposal to sell off millions of acres of public land across the West.
The protest coincided with the Western Governors Association meeting, where Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and several Congressional Republicans discussed a federal budget reconciliation bill that includes the sale of nearly 3 million acres of public lands. The proposed sales would open areas like the Sandia Mountains, Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks, and parts of the Gila and Santa Fe National Forests to urban development.
Environmental advocates and local residents voiced strong opposition, warning that the move threatens New Mexico’s natural heritage, wildlife habitats, and public access to cherished outdoor spaces. The Center for Biological Diversity estimated that more than 3,000 people attended the protest.
Organizers say the demonstration sends a clear message to federal leaders: New Mexicans are not willing to give up their public lands without a fight.
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