It's nice to see a high visibility member of the Democratic party putting it on the line and endorsing a candidate during a close nomination. No, I'm not talking about Al Gore or John Edwards. Those two so-called leaders are playing it close to the vest, no-doubt waiting to see which way things break before they take a stand. New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson on the other hand put his hat in the ring for Barack Obama today.
During such a tight nomination key endorsements from high ranking Democrats are crucial for either candidate. Richardson has been relentlessly wooed by Obama and Clinton for his endorsement. As a Democratic "super" delegate, the governor plays a part in the tight race for nominating votes and could bring other superdelegates to Obama's side. He also has been mentioned as a potential running mate for either candidate.
New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson today ended his campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination after back-to-back fourth-place finishes in the first two contests in Iowa and New Hampshire. Richardson planned to announce his decision Thursday at a final campaign rally at the New Mexico State Capitol in Santa Fe but nobody really gave a damn.Richardson had brought an extensive resume to his candidacy, including experience from his time in Congress, President Clinton's Cabinet as energy secretary, as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, as well as his unique role as a freelance diplomat. In the end however he was dogged by disastrous, sudoriferous performances on Sunday morning talk shows, an affinity for Alberto Gonzalez, and lack of press.Richardson vowed to return to New Mexico and continue whipping the state's two million people, 27th ranked economy, and 43rd ranked education system into shape.Adios.
