Melissa,
On Friday, I received one of the most pleasant surprises of the 2008 political season. New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, a close political ally of the Clintons, publicly endorsed Barack Obama. Although I’m not an Obama supporter (yes, I must write that every time we talk about him!), I am still excited about the endorsement. Why? Because it represents a rare moment of principled decision-making among mainstream politicians.
Unlike most politicians, whose endorsements are shaped by transparent careerism, Richardson made a choice against his own political self-interest. By most credible accounts, including ours, Richardson had the inside track on the VP spot on Hillary’s ticket. Although conventional wisdom suggests that he won’t secure such a position with Obama --I'm thinking Secretary of Homeland Security-- he nonetheless decided to endorse the candidate who he believes is a “once-in-a-lifetime” leader.
Even better than Richardson’s choice was his response to the Clinton-sponsored critics. When they pointed out that he owed the Clintons because Bill made him US Ambassador and Secretary of Energy, Richardon replied, “I paid him back. Because I served well.” When hired hitman James Carville compared Richardson to Judas Iscariot (what does that make Hillary? and Barack?) Richardson dismissed the Clinton's gutter politics and accurately pointed out that they “have a sense of entitlement to the presidency.” This is bold talk from a guy who spent much of primary season protecting Hillary from the competition.
So, Melissa, what do you think? Am I being naïve or is Richardson really doing something special here? Also, how significant is a Richardson endorsement at this point in the primary? Finally, doesn't he look a lot more Mexican now that he's not running for president?
Holla at ya boy!!!!!
