The Inside Outsider

As many of those in the Bill Richardson camp believe it’s ideal to have a Democratic governor get the nomination in 2008 and according to Wil S. Hylton of Gentlemen’s Quarterly Governor Bill Richardson is that governor. In the GQ July issue Hylton gives an outlook to the 2008 presidential race and Bill Richardson seems to have caught his eye.

Hylton gives profiles for Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden, John Kerry, Mark Warner, Russ Feingold and of course Bill Richardson. Here are the highlights of the Richardson profile:

The Resume: “In twenty-five years of political life, has negotiated with Saddam Hussein, Kim Jong Il, and Howard Dean.”

That made me laugh.

Natural Allies: “Democrats who want to win … As the blue governor of a red state, he’s got swing appeal; with U.N. credentials and ties to North Korean negotiators, he’s got the multilateral vote; with cabinet experience, he has insider chops—but can still campaign as an outsider.”

This is an important point. Richardson not only has the experience, but at the same time he’s a fresh face that will appeal to the broad electorate.

How He’d Win: “To win the top spot, he will have to campaign against the establishment, critiquing his party’s complicity in record deficits and an unpopular war.”

That shouldn’t be tough. Richardson has a proven track record of getting things done regardless of who supports him in his efforts. He has lowered taxes while building a budget surplus and investing in education.

Overall, I thought the preview was favorable to Richardson. I encourage you to get your hands on a copy. It’s not available online, sorry.

Governor Bill Richardson Acts to Protect New Mexico Wilderness

Today, Governor Bill Richardson filed a petition for complete protection of 1.7 million acres of New Mexico wilderness – 1.6 million acres of roadless national forests in New Mexico, as well as 100,000 acres at the Valle Vidal. Governor Richardson today became the first western governor to petition the Bush administration for roadless area protection under a new rule established last year.

“Our roadless wilderness areas are truly cherished by the people of New Mexico as well as people who come here to fish and hunt,” said New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson. “I am very proud today to help protect all 1.6 million acres of roadless territory in New Mexico’s national forests as well as the Valle Vidal, an outdoor jewel in Northern New Mexico. Roadless areas support significant and complex wildlife communities, they create valuable recreation opportunities, and roadless areas help support natural fire resistance.”

Included in the petition is a 100,000 acre area known as Valle Vidal in the Carson National Forest. The Valle Vidal, now at risk to oil and gas development, is prime habitat for elk and trout, which brings hunters, fisherman and tourists from all around the region to this place of rare beauty. The Valle Vidal was added to the National Forest System after the original roadless inventories were conducted and, to this day, lacks permanent protection.

“We commend Governor Richardson for using every tool at his disposal to protect New Mexico's roadless areas," said Robert Vandermark, director of the Heritage Forests Campaign. "His efforts, as well as those of the governors of North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia, will help keep much of our nation's last wild forests intact until we can return to a national policy that protects all roadless areas, throughout the country, as so many citizens have demanded.”