Missouri for Bill Richardson

New and improved Missouri for Richardson group

2007-05-23T22:12:00.000-05:00

Earlier this week Gov. Bill Richardson officially announced his candidacy for President of the United States and launched a new web site allowing supporters to connect to one another more easily. Please join the Missouri for Richardson group by clicking here.

At the group site you can also find an updated Missouri for Richardson blog. Please visit the new and improved RichardsonforPresident.com today.

MO: "We want Richardson"

2007-04-27T16:30:00.000-05:00

According to MissouriPolitics.net "there was one clear winner (at last night's debate): the Santa Fe Kid, the diplomat who knows where it’s at, the Gov we’ve all come to love, Bill Richardson."

Give 'em hell Bill ...

2007-04-23T22:14:00.000-05:00

Harry Truman style.

Gov. Bill Richardson delivered the keynote speech at the Give 'Em Hell Harry dinner this past Thursday. Check out an attendee's reaction:

Former Congressman Volkmer praises Richardson

2007-04-13T19:14:00.000-05:00

According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch former U.S. Representative Harold Volkmer of Hannibal, Missouri praised Governor Bill Richardson and said he's the Democrats best shot at regaining the White House. Rep. Volkmer represented Missouri for 20 years. Both Richardson and Volkmer were House colleagues before Richardson was appointed Ambassador to the U.N. by President Bill Clinton.

Here's the Post-Dispatch posting.

Gov. Richardson has a lot of appeal in rural areas due to his record of lowering taxes, balancing budgets and protecting the constitutional right to bear arms. This should serve him well in rural Iowa, Nevada, New Hampshire and South Carolina.

It will be interesting to see if former Missouri Gov. Bob Holden endorses his friend Gov. Richardson.

Richardson to appear on The Daily Show

2007-03-26T22:37:00.000-05:00

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson will be a guest on "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart" on Wednesday, March 28 at 11:00 p.m. (ET/PT). Governor Richardson previously appeared as a guest on "The Daily Show" on during its coverage of the 2004 Democratic National Convention in Boston.

Richardson best pick for prez

2006-11-27T16:49:00.000-06:00

Here's a flattering column by Bill Clark of the "Columbia Daily Tribune." Honestly, I was surprised to see it. I hope Missourians continue to jump on the Bill Richardson bandwagon.

Richardson best pick for prez, outside of yours truly, of course

In the column, Clark lists the reasons why Richardson is qualified to lead the U.S. inluding the fact that he, "lowered the income tax and tax on food, yet has balanced the budget and has given New Mexico one of the highest budget reserves in the United States."

Missouri wants Bill

2006-08-22T17:28:00.000-05:00

According to the latest Survey USA job-approval poll released today, New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson was ranked as one of the Top 10 Governors in the nation. Meanwhile Missouri’s least favorite son Governor Matt Blunt, son of Congressman Roy Blunt has a mere 40 percent approval rating.

The Survey USA poll, conducted August 11-13, reflects a 65 percent approval rate for Governor Richardson in New Mexico. The 65-percent approval rate ties Governor Richardson with Nebraska Governor Dave Heineman.

“I am pleased that a strong majority of New Mexicans approve of the direction we are taking the state,“New Mexico continues to show strong economic growth across the board, which is enabling us to push for additional tax cuts for working New Mexico families, increase access to quality health care and invest students in the classroom” Governor Bill Richardson said.

No comment from Blunt. Click here for the poll.

The Survey USA Poll surveyed 600 adults in all 50 states; margin of error +/- 4% (release, 8/22).

News Alert: Richardson to be guest on NBC’s ‘Meet the Press’ Sunday

2006-07-08T16:30:00.000-05:00

Governor Bill Richardson will join Ambassador Nicholas Burns, former Assistant Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter, and former Ambassador Robert Gallucci to discuss the North Korea situation Sunday, July 9 at 7 a.m. EST.

Because of Wimbledon coverage check your local listings here.

Richardson served as Ambassador to the United Nations under President Bill Clinton and has visited North Korea five times. Because of Richardson’s efforts in North Korea and elsewhere he’s been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize four times.

This has been a busy week for the Governor. He has been on CBS News and Fox News. He wrote an editorial on North Korea for the “New York Daily News” and now will be a guest on “Meet the Press.” If that’s not enough, the “Wall Street Journal” wrote a great story on Richardson’s record of lowering taxes and enabling a budget surplus.

For those who may have difficult getting up at 7 a.m. EST, like me, the program will re-air on MSNBC at 8 p.m. EST or you can watch it online at here.

Governor to visit Florida

2006-07-01T16:58:00.000-05:00

Governor Bill Richardson will be the keynote speaker for the Flordia Democrats' 2006 Jefferson Jackson Gala July 22 at the Broward Convention Center. His speech will follow a debate between gubernatorial candidates Congressman Jim Davis and State Senator Rod Smith.

It's never to early to visit Florida! Richardson will be visiting as chairman of the Democratic Governors’ Association. Current Florida Governor Jeb Bush isn't running. Democrats have a great chance to reclaim the Governor's Mansion with Richardson's help! Learn more at the DGA.

Democratic Candidates
Jim Davis
Rod Smith

Republican Candidates
Charlie Crist
Tom Gallagher

The Inside Outsider

2006-06-25T15:30:00.000-05:00

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

2006-06-01T00:11:00.000-05:00

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.”

Watch Richardson Saturday night

2006-04-29T15:41:00.000-05:00

Watch Governor Bill Richardson tonight at a live webcast from the California Democratic Party’s 2006 Convention!

The convention is set to nominate either state Treasurer Phil Angelides or state Controller Steve Westly to run against Arnold this fall.

Not only does Richardson have the best resume of any Democratic nominee hopeful, he knows how to liven up and inspire a crowd. Here are the details:

A Tribute to California Victory in 2006
With Special Honored Guest, Governor Bill Richardson of New Mexico
7:30 pm — 9:30 pm PST

Click here for the live webcast.

Richardson seeks solutions for regular people's pocketbooks

2006-04-25T01:43:00.000-05:00

Governor Bill Richardson has called on the oil and gas industry for a second time to pitch in $50 million to help consumers.

Big oil companies are making record profits as consumers pay record prices. ExxonMobil ($340 billion in 2005 revenue) recently beat out Wal-Mart ($316 billion) for the top spot on the 2006 Fortune 500 list. ExxonMobil had $36 billion in profits, the most by any U.S. company in history. Chevron Texaco also climbed from 6th to 4th on the Fortune list, and ConocoPhillips moved from 7th to 6th.

“New Mexico is ready to help distribute this $50 million if the oil and gas industry will step up, help out and break their stunning silence,” Richardson said. “This industry is enjoying record-breaking profits while New Mexicans are feeling the pinch.”

Every one-cent increase in the price of gas costs American consumers approximately $1 billion. Congress has passed an energy bill that gives billions in tax breaks to oil companies already profiting from higher prices. It is reassuring to see that Richardson has not forgotten what regular people experience at the pumps.

“In 2004 the average New Mexican made a little more than $31,000,” said Richardson. “Meanwhile, the chairman of ExxonMobil made more than $51 million last year. That’s just not right.”

“I have fought hard to get relief for New Mexico families dealing with high gasoline prices,” said Richardson. “I enacted rebates last fall that sent checks of between $64 and $289 to every New Mexico taxpayer. The astronomical prices at gas pumps again show why we need an investigation of price gouging. I have consistently and forcefully called for such an investigation to make sure that the ways in which gasoline prices are set are completely above board. So far, the oil and gas industry has strenuously resisted this approach.”

Richardson is also working hard to put New Mexico at the forefront of the new, emerging clean and renewable energy economy. Developing renewables such as solar, wind, ethanol and biomass energy resources as alternatives to oil and promoting conservation will help permanently deal with the problem of high oil prices. Mass transit, like the RailRunner commuter train the Governor has championed, are also a big part of the solution for consumers.

Portales News-Tribune has the story.

Richardson selects chief strategist

2006-04-18T21:48:00.000-05:00

Last week, Gov. Bill Richardson announced his former Chief of Staff Dave Contarino would begin working as the chairman of his re-election campaign.

Today, Richardson announced that AFTER the re-election campaign Contrarino would continue working on political matters as chief strategist — hopefully a presidential run.

“Dave will assume the chairmanship of my re-election campaign, working on all my political activities, including my re-election,” Richardson said.

The Albuquerque Tribune article

Free New Mexican article

Governor Richardson on Face The Nation

2006-04-16T22:33:00.000-05:00

Courtesy Washington for Richardson:

Governor Richardson was on CBS' Face the Nation with host Bob Schieffer this morning. The guests were Senator George Allen (R-VA) and Richardson, and the topic was whether or not Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld should heed the call of several generals and resign. Governor Richardson also shared his thoughts on Bush's war in Iraq and the situation in Iran. You can find the transcript here.

Click here for a video clip of Richardson's appearance.

Richardson — Best résumé of any potential Democratic presidential candidate

2006-04-16T22:30:00.000-05:00

Michael Riley writes a great piece on Governor Bill Richardson in the Denver Post. This weekend has been full of great press. Here's an excerpt:

New Mexico's relatively small stage has never quite fit a man who has led an oversize political life: former U.S. secretary of energy, ambassador to the United Nations, a seven-term congressman, and now the state's most powerful governor in living memory.

Richardson has spent a lifetime positioning himself for this moment: He's a Latino at a time when the ethnic group's influence is growing. He's a Westerner as the region is becoming critical to the national strategies of both parties. And he's a powerful governor with impeccable foreign-policy credentials.

It may be the best résumé of any potential Democratic presidential candidate in 2008, and Richardson knows it.

Click here for the the full article.

Richardson v. Dobbs

2006-04-15T11:47:00.000-05:00

Earlier this week Gov. Bill Richardson respectfully debated Lou Dobbs on CBS's The Early Show concerning the immigration debate. Check it out. It includes a summary and video clip.

Richardson has been encouraging a plan to strengthen border security and offer eventual citizenship to undocumented workers.

Real Progress for Regular People

2006-03-26T18:49:00.000-06:00

I just watched Gov. Bill Richardson's recent visit to New Hampshire on C-SPAN. He did a great job. I like his theme of the Do Nothing Republican White House and Congress. He kept reiterating that the work of real progress for regular people has taken place at the state level like New Mexico. Richardson has secured a budget surplus and on top of that has lowered taxes for those who need it. His theme of real progress has legs. Governor Richardson has a proven track record and personality. He seemed relaxed and at ease while campaigning. I am assured once again he's the Democrats' answer in 2008.

Also, I found an interesting Q&A with the Sun-Sentinel in Florida and Richardson.

Whittled down to just one

2006-03-20T16:28:00.000-06:00

Recently at the Washington Press Corps Gridiron Roast, Governor Bill Richardson compared the Bush's administration's treatment of US allies over the Iraq war to the NCAA basketball tournament. "Sixty-four teams start and they're whittled down to just one. Kind of reminds me of what we've done with our allies." President George W. Bush followed by calling Richardson and Chuck Hagel as "a couple of independent thinkers, which in my book is a negative."

Here's Steve Young's take on the event.

Richardson balances a responsible budget, unlike George W. Bush

2006-03-17T13:21:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, Senate Republicans voted to increase the limit on the national debt by $781 billion. The federal debt is now nearly $9 trillion. It is the fourth largest debt increase in history. The Bush Administration has now increased the federal debt limit by 53%, $3 trillion, since 2001. By 2011, the President's budget would increase the debt to $11.8 trillion.

President George W. Bush rather pass on the national debt to future generations and continue giving tax cuts to the rich. On the flip side, Governor Bill Richardson has successfully found a formula to provide tax cuts, invest in the future and secure budget surpluses.

Last week, Governor Richardson signed a $5.1 billion budget after taking fiscally responsible steps to restore the state’s budget surplus to a more prudent level. Governor Richardson also signed capital spending bills that invest more than $840 million in economic development, water, education and health care.

“I came into this session vowing to make bold investments – with a focus on children, and we did that,” Governor Richardson said. “I signed bills that increase children’s access to health care, build modern new schools in high-growth communities, create more opportunities to attend Pre-Kindergarten, ensure healthy breakfasts and quality physical education in elementary schools and protect kids against the ravages of meth.

In order to balance the budget and get reserves to 10 percent, Governor Richardson vetoed $268 million from all three spending bills. Of that, the Governor vetoed $52.8 million dollars in capital funding. Those vetoes were spread among all legislative districts. The Governor vetoed about $2 million of his own projects to help balance the budget and increase reserve levels.

“I was forced to make tough decisions to reach those goals because the Legislature overspent, leaving our reserves at barely 5 percent,” Governor Richardson said. “As a result, using my veto pen, I have saved taxpayers $268 million dollars and pared back spending to responsible levels, leaving a balanced budget and a budget surplus of more than $500 million dollars. Our fiscal house is in order.

“I said before the session, after the session, and I’m saying today – we can invest in children, invest in our future and still be fiscally responsible,” Governor Richardson said. “That’s why I insisted on keeping at least 10 percent of taxpayer’s money in the bank.

Richardson blocks access to meth

2006-03-12T19:20:00.000-06:00

On March 1 Gov. Bill Richardson signed two bills that give the state new tools to block access to meth and crack down on meth dealers.

Gov. Richardson signed House Bill 211, which helps limit access to one of the major building blocks to "cook" meth. The bill makes psuedoephedrine - a common ingredient in cold medicine - a controlled substance that can be legally distributed only by a licensed pharmacist.

"Today New Mexico joins more than 30 states that have restricted the sale of cold medicines used to make methamphetamine," Gov. Bill Richardson said. "This legislation supports my Keeping Kids Safe agenda during this Year of the Child."

Missouri is considered the meth capital of the nation and has taken similar steps. It's reassuring Richardson understands the growing problem of this destructive drug.

Gov. Richardson also signed House Bill 179, which increases penalties on meth dealers. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Joseph Cervantes, increases the penalty for the sale of meth or possession of meth with the intent to sell. Meth will now carry the same penalties that are applied to heroin and cocaine dealers.

"These bills - along with the nearly $800,000 we are spending on meth treatment - show that New Mexico is committed to cracking down on those who manufacture and deal meth," Gov. Bill Richardson said.

Richardson ensures every vote counts

2006-03-02T21:44:00.000-06:00

Governor Bill Richardson today signed a key piece of legislation passed during the recently completed legislative session. Senate Bill 295, the New Mexico Make Every Vote Count Act, moves the state to a single paper ballot system, makes New Mexico’s elections system more transparent and helps guarantee that every New Mexican’s ballot will be counted.

Missouri has received federal funding to replace punch-card ballot machines, but has not opted to establish a state-wide uniform voting system. Jurisdictions that wish to participate in the punch card buyout will receive an estimated $3200 per qualifying precinct. The Republican controlled governor's mansion, state house and senate has instead worked to make voting more difficult by enacting legislation requiring photo identification.

“Today we are moving New Mexico from a hodge-podge of varied voting systems to one, simple, statewide, all paper-ballot system using optical scanners to count the vote – a system that provides uniform accountability and an absolute paper trail should there be any questions regarding the legitimacy of our vote,” said Governor Richardson. “With this step we will guarantee fair and accurate elections, insure accessibility for voters who are disabled and restore faith in our electoral process.”

This bill includes the input of legislators, concerned citizens and representatives from the state’s disabled community. It builds upon the improvements that the Richardson Administration has already made to New Mexico’s elections system. This includes improved training for poll workers, establishing statewide standards for provisional ballots, and simplified absentee voting. Penalties against state officials who violate the public trust have also been strengthened and tougher enforcement powers for the Secretary of State enacted.

“Paper ballots are the least expensive, most secure form of voting available,” said Governor Richardson. “These paper ballots will be the ultimate back-up for our elections – and will provide us with the level of security that New Mexicans deserve.”

Bill Richardson for President

2006-03-02T17:10:00.000-06:00

Missouri for Bill Richardson is a blog community devoted to electing Gov. Bill Richardson the next president of the United States. He has what it takes to win and we're going to ensure people learn about his common-sense plan to move America forward.

Richardson is the governor of New Mexico, a former congressman, energy secretary and United Nations ambassador. Richardson enables Democrats to break through in the electorally significant Southwest and tap into the growing Hispanic vote. He has international and domestic experience unmatched and the ability to win.

The 2008 presidential election is just around the corner so please tell your friends about Bill. Also, if you're interested in helping out please contact me. His common-sense approach is appealing to all regions of the United States including the critical Midwest and Southwest.