Bill Richardson's Candidacy for the 2008 Presidential Campaign

In the last two elections, one name outside of rank-and-file favorite Al Gore has appeared on the list of potential Democratic presidential candidates: Governor Bill Richardson of New Mexico. Richardson's candidacy in 2000 and 2004 was derailed by the popularity of Vice President Al Gore and the stacked primary season for the Democrats in 2004, ensuring an easy nomination process. Bill Richardson, however, should now be considered as a strong candidate for the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination.

Bill Richardson was born on November 15, 1947 in Pasadena, California. Richardson attended Tufts College graduating with a degree in French and Political Science and attended Tufts' Fletcher School for Law and Diplomacy, where he received as Masters of Arts. Richardson went on to become a seven-term congressman from New Mexico, focusing his energies on major foreign policy issues and growing energy issues in America. His commitment to foreign policy issues in the Balkans and the Middle East led to his appointment in 1997 as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Following this appointment, he became President Clinton's Secretary of Energy for the remainder of his term in office.

In his capacity as Secretary of Energy, Richardson was able to refine his knowledge of energy supply issues like nuclear energy and waste management, electrical grid problems, and issues of gasoline supply in America. Following George W. Bush's victory in 2000, Richardson returned to New Mexico and ran for governor in 2002. Richardson defeated Republican John Sanchez 56% to 39% and gained a mandate for his moderate approach to politics. As governor, Richardson has been devoted to nuclear energy use in his state, the development of aeronautic and technological infrastructure in the state, and immigration issues as New Mexico is on the forefront of the illegal immigrant debate. Richardson has been active in getting Democratic governors more involved in national politics and his ability to work with national leaders have put him in the forefront of recognizable Democrats.

Aside from his policy acumen, Richardson's personality and public appearance makes him a strong bet to be on the 2008 Democratic ticket (whether president or vice president). His Hispanic heritage and moderate approach to immigration issues makes him an important figure in the long term debate over border security and how to deal with illegal immigrants. As well, it makes him an invaluable political tool for the Democrats, who are locked in a battle for the Hispanic vote with Republicans. Finally, Bill Richardson may also help the Democrats lock up southwestern states like Nevada and New Mexico (where the elections of 2000 and 2004 were close) for the Democrats, as well as states with higher Hispanic populations like Florida. In the battle for 2008, Governor Bill Richardson of New Mexico appears to be poised to take a leadership role in the Democratic Party and possibly the nation.