New Mexico meat processor Valley Meat Co. is suing the U.S. federal government after the USDA ceased inspection of the company's horse slaughtering facility. Valley Meat alleges it is the victim of emotional political debates and that it has lost hundreds of thousands of dollars due to federal inaction. Not everyone is ready to lead horses to the slaughterhouse, however. New Mexico Gov. Susana Maratinez has vowed to fight the horse slaughtering facility, saying:
"A horse's companionship is a way of life for many people across New Mexico. We rely on them for work and bond with them through their loyalty."
