The reviews of the career of former Governor Bill Richardson have given a comprehensive account of a career in politics that was varied with high points and low points which could be the story of most of us in our journey in life whether in politics or private life.
Richardson died in his sleep last week at 75.
Our op/ed page, on page A7, offers a glimpse of Richardson’s career from two of our contributing writers.
Richardson was popular in Northern New Mexico, a region he represented as a congressman for many years. Other parts of the state view his time, particularly as governor for two terms, with mixed emotions and opinions.
One aspect of his life that is intriguing is the difference in views of Richardson nationally and globally as opposed to reflections on his time as governor.
There is a saying that an expert is a person 100 miles from home with a briefcase.
We could say that about Richardson. In many ways he was more popular and admired outside of New Mexico than within our borders.
He’s not the first to be seen this way.
In our neighboring state of Texas, former Governor Ann Richardson was wildly popular nationally but was not as well-regarded in her home state.
She was handed a surprising defeat when challenged by George W. Bush in 1994 as she sought reelection.
Bush, who continued to become President of the United States, beat her with 54 percent of the vote compared to her 45 percent.
Richards, known for being caustic and wise cracking was gracious in defeat saying she wished Bush the “very best in taking office in January because he is taking on the responsibly of Texas.”
She had become famous nationally when at a Democratic National Convention Address in 1988 she said of George W’s father, “Poor George (Bush) he can’t help it .He was born with a silver foot in his mouth.”
Her address is worth looking up and reading.
One of her other quotes that evening is this one where she talked about perceptions of women and their ability to succeed. “After all,” she quipped, “Ginger Rogers did everything that Fred Astaire did. She just did it backwards and in high heels.”
That speech had depth that exceeded her sense of humor and launched her into the national spotlight that lasted throughout her life.
Richardson’s long-lasting reputation will most likely best be seen through the prism of his success in negotiating with foreign and hostile governments to free U.S. political prisoners.
The list of those he brought home to our shores is long and impressive. Results matter and he is respected for those humanitarian efforts.
He was a headline-grabber and darn good at it whether it be for governance that went awry or for accomplishments when things worked.
New Mexico and the nation lost a man who one way or the other helped put the state out in front of a larger audience.