By: Chris Hernandez
Let’s talk straight about Veronica Carbajal’s recent claims. She’s saying her social media posts influenced the City Council to remove City Manager Tommy Gonzalez. Now, we all like to think our Instagram and Facebook posts shake things up, but let’s be real here – the idea that social media sways local politics like this is a stretch, at best.
Think about it. Do we really believe Oscar Leeser, Brian Kennedy, or Joe Molinar are taking cues from Carbajal? Doubtful that even Alexsandra Annello would say that Carbajal influenced her decision to vote Gonzalez out. It’s no secret that many in El Paso had issues with Tommy Gonzalez long before Carbajal chimed in. She boarded a moving train and then claimed she was the one driving it.
And then there’s this whole Prop K saga. Carbajal’s backtracking on her leadership role is something else. She actually threatened legal action against me for calling her a leader in the Prop K efforts (I told her to “Bring it!”). If Prop K had passed, she’d want us all to know she was the driving force behind it. That’s not just inconsistent – it’s opportunistic.
I’ll be honest, I had high hopes for Carbajal back when she ran for Mayor in 2020. Heck, I even thought she could give Veronica Escobar a run for her money. But now? It’s hard to watch. The more she talks, the more she seems out of touch with how city government and the diverse political landscape of El Paso really work. It’s not just about not seeing eye to eye; it’s about being consistent and real with your audience.
In short, Carbajal’s recent claims and contradictions should raise more eyebrows than support. El Paso deserves leaders who stick to their guns, not those who change their tune to suit the moment.
About the Author
Chris Hernandez is a local political consultant serving as the treasurer and Campaign Director for the El Paso Progress PAC.
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