New Mexico governor withdraws state's National Guard troops from southern border

"I reject the federal contention that there exists an overwhelming national security crisis at the southern border, along which are some of the safest communities in the country," the newly-elected Democratic governor said in a statement announcing her decision.

She vowed that "New Mexico will not take part in the president's charade of border fear-mongering by misusing our diligent National Guard troops."

"We will deploy our men and women in uniform only where there is a need, and where their presence can make a genuine difference in ensuring public safety and an easing of the humanitarian concerns at our southern border," Lujan Grisham said.

The governor also ordered National Guard troops from six states -- Arkansas, Kansas, Kentucky, New Hampshire, South Carolina, and Wisconsin -- to "return to their home states immediately." According to the governor's office, there are 118 total National Guard troops deployed in New Mexico.

She did, however, direct a small number of troops to remain in the southwestern part of the state to help with humanitarian needs.

"I recognize and appreciate the legitimate concerns of residents and officials in southwestern New Mexico, particularly Hidalgo County, who have asked for our assistance, as migrants and asylum-seekers continue to appear at their doorstep," she said.

Half a dozen state police officers will also be temporarily deployed to Hidalgo County to help the local law enforcement.

The governor plans to hold a news conference Wednesday to address her decision.

Lujan Grisham has long been an outspoken critic of the Trump administration's immigration policies since her time serving in Congress and as chairwoman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.

Last April, Trump ordered the deployment of National Guard forces to help secure the border. There are about 2,200 National Guardsmen assigned to that mission, which is scheduled to end in September. There are also 2,300 active duty troops deployed to the border, with over 3,000 additional active duty troops to join.

Several governors have canceled or refused the deployment of their National Guard troops in response to the Trump administration's family separations policy.

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