Horse Racing: Ruidoso Downs remains unable to host events, and the state’s biggest quarter-horse races are set to move to Texas in 2027, with no clear return date for New Mexico. Military & Religion: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says the Pentagon will protect service members at Kirtland Air Force Base who deliver religious greetings, after a nonprofit challenged the practice. State Politics: A Las Cruces launch kicks off a statewide campaign for a legislator-pay constitutional amendment, arguing lawmakers need salaries to broaden who can serve. Nursing Homes: New Mexico nursing homes are under strain as staffing shortages drive poor performance, while one major operator’s bankruptcy raises fears about quality and accountability. Education & Food: New Mexico officials say federal reimbursement is secured through at least 2030, keeping the universal free school lunch program intact despite SNAP cuts. Data Centers & Courts: The New Mexico Supreme Court and Attorney General actions keep Project Jupiter’s permits tied up, with emergency stays and water-permit challenges still in play. Wildlife Policy: Trump’s order starts a process to revisit protections for gray wolves and Mexican wolves, setting up likely legal fights over Endangered Species Act rules. Public Safety: A 16-year-old was arrested in a transnational online extortion case tied to alleged abuse of minors, highlighting ongoing risks on youth platforms.