Former New Mexico Republican Candidate Convicted of Armed Attacks Against Democrats

Solomon Peña, a former Republican statehouse candidate in New Mexico, was convicted on multiple federal charges for orchestrating drive-by shootings against Democratic officials after losing his election bid.

A former candidate for a state legislative seat in New Mexico has been found guilty on federal charges linked to drive-by shootings directed at the homes of four Democratic officials. Solomon Peña was convicted on all 13 counts, including conspiracy and weapons charges, following a jury deliberation lasting roughly five hours. The violent incidents, which occurred in December 2022 and January 2023, came just weeks after Peña lost an election for a statehouse seat. Fortunately, no individuals were harmed during the attacks, although bullets did enter the bedroom of a ten-year-old girl, daughter of a state senator.

Peña’s legal troubles began with his arrest in January 2023, as federal officials accused him of masterminding the attacks. They alleged he paid four accomplices and even sent them text messages with targeted locations and instructions. The spree of violence began shortly after Peña’s electoral defeat, during which he publicly refused to concede, claiming that the election was “rigged” and urging local officials to overturn the results.

Witnesses at the trial testified that Peña had visited the homes of various Democratic officials, attempting to persuade them against certifying the election results with claims of fraudulent activities. After more than two weeks of testimony, the jury reached a unanimous verdict of guilty.

In response to the conviction, Peña’s defense attorney announced plans to appeal, decrying the trial as politically influenced. If the conviction stands, Peña faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 60 years in prison due to the seriousness of the charges. Noteworthy is Peña’s previous criminal history, which includes a conviction in 2008 for multiple state charges, following which he served time in prison before being released under supervision and later having his parole discharged in 2021.

This case reflects broader tensions and divisions in American politics, particularly surrounding election integrity and violence. It raises significant questions about accountability and the extent to which political disputes may lead to criminal actions.