Federal and local authorities are investigating an early-morning fire at the Republican Party of New Mexico’s Albuquerque headquarters, where incendiary materials were found and the building was spray-painted with anti-ICE graffiti. The blaze, reported just before 6 a.m. Sunday, caused heavy damage to the entrance and left the interior smoke-damaged, though no injuries were reported. Investigators from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) confirmed the presence of unspecified fire-starting materials at the scene, while the vandalism included the phrase “ICE=KKK” painted near the entrance.
The attack follows a recent surge in politically charged property crimes, including a string of arson cases targeting Tesla facilities across the U.S. The electric vehicle company, owned by outspoken Trump ally Elon Musk, has seen dealerships, charging stations, and private vehicles attacked with Molotov cocktails in what U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has called “domestic terrorism.” Musk’s support for former President Donald Trump’s policies, including efforts to shrink the federal workforce, has made Tesla a frequent target.
New Mexico GOP officials condemned the headquarters fire as a deliberate act of political intimidation, calling for unity against escalating violence. No suspects have been identified, and no group has claimed responsibility. The ATF and Albuquerque Fire Rescue continue to investigate.
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