‘It’s just been constant chaos’: Councilor Sam LeDoux speaks on the dysfunction in Española's city government

Sam LeDoux has worked on the campaigns and political teams of some big names in New Mexico and the nation, including former Gov. Susana Martinez, the late Arizona Sen. John McCain, former Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey and former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan. LeDoux was elected to serve on the city council of his hometown of Española in March of 2024, and he says he’s seen a lot of dysfunction in his relatively short time in local politics, particularly in the past couple of months.  LeDoux joined “Around the Roundhouse” this week to share his view on the chaos and confusion that’s taken a grip on city government.  John Ramon Vigil, the city’s mayor, has been accused of sexually assaulting a city worker and has been asked to step down or resign by several city councilors, including LeDoux. Former City Manager Eric Lujan left his position at the end of May, after Española city councilors voted 5-3 to approve a settlement that allowed him to resign but continue working in a newly created position of “special projects coordinator.” Vigil’s choice for a replacement city manager was rejected by the city council, and LeDoux says Vigil has not attended several meetings to discuss a path forward.  “Basically, there is no leadership at the city right now. Employees are very confused,” LeDoux said. “Morale is at an all-time low. The city has basically had difficulty functioning because no one knows who is calling the shots.” Amid the latest round dysfunction in Española, “Around the Roundhouse” host Daniel J. Chacón asks what it will take to turn around the city government.  Chacón then chats with LeDoux about the governor’s race and who he thinks will come out of the Democratic primary.  LeDoux, a moderate Republican, talks about what he thinks of the MAGA movement under President Donald Trump. He is also asked if he has aspirations for higher office.  Chacón closes the episode by asking LeDoux about his proposal — he popped the question during a Washington Nationals game — and upcoming wedding. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.