Bill Richardson
In 2002, Bill Richardson was elected Governor of New Mexico by the
largest margin of any candidate in almost 40 years. As Governor, Bill
Richardson has successfully pushed a bold agenda to move New Mexico
forward.
He has worked hard to improve New Mexico’s public schools and higher
education system by targeting and investing in struggling schools while
increasing teacher pay and demanding accountability.
With more than 72,000 additional New Mexicans employed since he took
office, it is clear that his efforts to bring high-paying jobs to the
state are paying off - by creating incentives and cutting taxes in a
fiscally responsible way, including taxes on food and medical services.
Governor Richardson has invested in making New Mexico’s families
healthier, by increasing access to healthcare, childhood immunizations,
healthy food in our schools and affordable prescription drugs for our
seniors. And he has led the charge against drunk drivers, domestic
violence offenders, and sex offenders.
In the face of soaring gas and home heating costs, Governor Richardson
called a special session of the Legislature to provide immediate
financial relief to all New Mexicans, including those most in need and
the elderly.
In addition to these accomplishments, Governor Richardson has maintained
his interest in international diplomatic affairs, most recently when the
North Korean government requested to meet with him about their nuclear
weapons program.
Before becoming Governor, Bill Richardson served in Congress for 15
years, and served as the Ambassador to the UN and Secretary of the
Department of Energy. He has been nominated four times for the Nobel
Peace Prize for his leadership and success in promoting diplomacy and
securing the release of hostages in numerous hot spots around the world.