2020 Census issues for New Mexico, with Lt. Gov. Howie Morales

KGLP Station Manager Rachel Kaub speaks with New Mexico's Lieutenant Governor, Howie Morales, Ph.D., about the urgency of residents completing the Census (no matter what our nationality, economic or citizenship status, tribal affiliation, or ethnic origins - the Census is anonymous, and does not track such issues as citizenship, and so the recent blustering by Trump that undocumented immigrants would not be counted is not correct. 

• Anyone can complete their census by calling 1-844-330-2020 or on line at 2020census.gov

         Facts about the 2020 Census, per Lt. Governor Morales

• The state’s focus is on the wellness of every New Mexican. We know right now is a frightening and uncertain time.

• Your well-being is a priority now and in the future….but we need your help. Please take a moment to fill out the 2020 Census.

• It’s quick, simple and it’s your way of ensuring the state maintains the funding we need to care for you

• You can complete the Census online, by phone or by mail.

• The Census tracks population only. There are ten simple questions. Things like your phone number, do you own or rent a home, who lives in the household, how they are related, their age, sex and race. That’s it.

• It does not ask for your social security number your political affiliation or citizenship status.

• You count, because you live here.

• By knowing more about the people living in New Mexico, the Federal Government can then decide how much money to give our state for important programs like Medicaid, special education, lunch school programs and Head Start.

• The Census also helps determine the need for roads, hospitals and schools.
  
  

• Detailed population information is critical for emergency responses like the COVID-19 health crisis we are currently experiencing.

• Though Trump has threatened that undocumented immigrants will not be counted, and has ordered that the Census end on September 30, 2020, there is no way for undocumented immigrants to be banned from the census count, and litigation in now ongoing to restore the deadline to October 31, but New Mexico residents should get it done immediately, in any case. Not only is it good for our communities, but it also keeps a census worker from knocking on their door later this fall!

• Anyone can complete their census by calling 1-844-330-2020 or on line at 2020census.gov