Concern over using US military to help border…

The Trump administration's request for the Pentagon to house migrants detained at the U.S. southern border and even help prosecute them is prompting concern about strains to the military. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis, who has made it his top priority to improve the military's fitness for combat, argues that the Pentagon is nonetheless obliged to provide help with border enforcement.

Bill seeks park status for New Mexico’s stunning white dunes

A vast expanse of shifting white sand dunes in southern New Mexico would be elevated from a national monument to a national park under legislation proposed Friday by one of the state's senators. U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, a Democrat, made the announcement while visiting the state as part of a multiday tour that also included looking at the potential for more outdoor recreation elsewhere as New Mexico and other western states promote their wide open spaces in hopes of attracting more tourists and more money.