No, No, Two Hundred Times No

NEW MEXICO'S NEW GOVERNOR SHOOK UP A LOT OF PEOPLE WITH A RECORD NUMBER OF VETOES - AND SOME OF THE SHAKEN ARE MEMBERS OF HIS OWN PARTY.

New Mexico's Republican Governor Gary Johnson, a self-made millionaire and owner of one of the largest construction companies in the state, rode into office in November 1994 on the wave of conservatism that swept the nation and transformed the political landscape.

His self-effacing manner and admitted lack of knowledge of government - he had never before held a public office - grated on political opponents, observers and party officials early in the campaign, but made him a refreshing change in the eyes of voters.

After the election, however, his lack of political experience became a source of difficulties for the Legislature.

"He was told the Legislature would eat his lunch," explained Johnson's press aide Diane Kinderwater. "It didn't happen. He held his ground and was able to accomplish what he set out to accomplish."

Exactly what he accomplished has created a dubious distinction for Johnson and drawn harsh criticism from a host of legislators, some in his own party.

A VETO RECORD

Johnson set state and national records by vetoing 200 bills out of the 424 that were passed by the Legislature, far surpassing the previous state mark set in 1957 when 100 vetoes were written by former Governor Edwin L. Mechem. It also appears to be a national record, if not in total vetoes, certainly in percentages, with 48 percent of all bills passed being struck down. Of the 224 that survived, most were subjected to line-item vetoes. …