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Anthony Today
By the People, for the People
New Anthony Mayor Alleges Irregularities in Transition of Power
Holguin says previous administration failed to properly hand over public records and equipment
Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:22pm
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The transition of power between administrations in Anthony, New Mexico, has exposed concerning irregularities that threaten transparency and accountability in local government.Anthony TodayThe newly elected mayor of Anthony, New Mexico, Gabriel I. Holguin, has asked state and federal authorities for help after uncovering what he describes as major issues regarding public records and equipment during the transition from the previous administration led by former mayor Diana Murillo. Holguin cited missing or deleted records, irregularities in payroll, and the failure to return city-issued equipment.
Why it matters
The allegations of mishandled records and equipment during the transition of power in Anthony raise concerns about transparency and accountability in local government. Proper record-keeping and the smooth transfer of information and assets are crucial for maintaining continuity of operations and public trust.
The details
According to Holguin, the issues include missing or deleted public records related to investigations, grants, and open records requests. He also said there were irregularities found in timecards and payroll records, and the previous administration failed to return city-issued equipment. At the Anthony Police Department, Holguin said systems were left locked, devices were erased, and critical information was not turned over to the new administration. Holguin also raised concerns about the handling of sensitive communications involving former Police Chief Vanessa Ordonez, which he said were shared through inappropriate channels.
- Holguin took office at the end of 2025.
- The City of Anthony has been dealing with an unprecedented volume of Inspection of Public Records Act requests since late 2025.
The players
Gabriel I. Holguin
The newly elected mayor of Anthony, New Mexico, who took office at the end of 2025.
Diana Murillo
The former mayor of Anthony, New Mexico, whose administration Holguin is accusing of mishandling records and equipment during the transition of power.
Vanessa Ordonez
The former police chief of Anthony, New Mexico, whose sensitive communications are said to have been shared through inappropriate channels.
Raul Torrez
The New Mexico Attorney General, whom the City of Anthony has reached out to for help in resolving the issues.
Fernando Macias
The Dona Ana County District Attorney, whom the City of Anthony has reached out to for help in resolving the issues.
What they’re saying
“As Mayor, I have a duty to protect the integrity of this City and ensure that public records are preserved and accessible. What we have encountered raises serious concerns about transparency, accountability, and the proper handling of City operations during the transition.”
— Gabriel I. Holguin, Mayor of Anthony, New Mexico
What’s next
The City of Anthony has asked federal authorities to review the case and help recover and preserve the missing records. The city is also continuing to work with the New Mexico Attorney General's Office and the Third Judicial District Attorney's Office, although Holguin said the city has not received the level of follow-up or support needed to resolve the issues or recover the missing records.
The takeaway
The allegations made by the new mayor of Anthony, New Mexico, highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in local government, especially during the critical transition of power between administrations. The failure to properly hand over public records and equipment raises concerns about the integrity of the city's operations and the potential for misuse or loss of sensitive information.
