"But if we do, this is a question of values and where we're going to stand going forward. Is it better in the name of receiving federal funds to disrupt family lives, people that are living in communities peacefully, children that are part of a family that is producing great work in our community?" he asked. "Those are all areas that I think, as mayor of my city, I want to stand on the side of. We'll find our way to get through this. We've weathered tough times before in our community. But I'm not going to be a part of breaking up families, supporting federal deportation officials as they try and destroy the fabric of our community when this really is a federal responsibility."
Among the reactions on social media was a tweet by Gabriella Marks, a lifestyle and portrait photographer in Santa Fe, who said of Gonzales: "Thank you for representing Santa Fe and our values -- a sane & humane approach to immigration."
Others attacked the mayor and his position.
"Just watched you on Fox. You are a perfect example of what is wrong with this country. Politically correct, but REALLY dumb," tweeted a user who identified himself as Bill Bendel.
"You worthless [expletive], you are a traitor to this country. We'll remember you," tweeted "The Seattle Redneck."
Some comments on Twitter were racist.
"Mexicans out, America belongs to Whites!" a Twitter user with the handle @yespasaran_ wrote in a tweet to Gonzales that included a picture of a swastika.
That comment drew a response from the mayor, who posted a screen shot of the message on Facebook. "I believe in [an] America far different than this tweet," Gonzales wrote. "My resolve is strengthened and we will overcome hatred."
Gonzales was able to do sit-down interviews in New York City with major television news networks because he is attending a mental health care conference hosted by New York Mayor Bill de Blasio. The city of Santa Fe is paying $700 for the trip.
Gonzales "is pairing that conference with a press tour to support and boost tourism in Santa Fe, so he's meeting with the James Beard Foundation, CNN Money, and the Food Network as part of that tour," city spokesman Matt Ross said Tuesday in an email. "Because of the dual-nature of the trip, Tourism and the Mayor's Office are splitting the costs.
(Article changed on November 17, 2016 at 11:20)
(Article changed on November 17, 2016 at 12:15)
(Article changed on November 17, 2016 at 12:16)
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