George Munoz

LOCAL COLUMN New Mexico’s recent bond rating upgrade to Aa1 from Aa2 reflects years of intentional decisions by the Legislature and the governor to reduce volatility, strengthen long-term savings and create a more stable future for all New Mexicans. When a bond rating agency upgrades a credit rating, it is not reacting to a single strong year or a temporary surge in revenue but rather recognizing a sustained record of fiscal discipline and structural reform.

The symbolism of this moment is hard to ignore. New Mexico’s spirit is reflected in the stories unfolding across the country this fall, and one story in particular captures our state’s character: the rise of Diego Pavia. Pavia, an Albuquerque native who once played for New Mexico State University and the New Mexico Military Institute, has become a national storyline as a potential Heisman Trophy contender during his season at Vanderbilt.

Even at the end of that September night in Rio Rancho, it felt like there were loose ends that needed tying up between Cleveland and Las …