OPINION & EDITORIAL
Richardson can save Democrats
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by Will Smith
Thursday, January 18, 2007
One year away from the first presidential primaries of 2008, the selection process is in a unique position: Both parties have open fields, and no consensus candidates are emerging.
With President Bush’s unpopularity and the continuing decline of support for the Iraq war, the presidential election is shaping up to be the Democrats’ to lose. After gaining steam in the mid-term elections and profiting from Bush’s negatives, the Democrats appear to be in their best position to win the White House since the 1976 election of Jimmy Carter.
Currently, celebrity Senators Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., and Barack Obama, D-Ill., are leading the Democratic pack, each collecting approximately 30 percent of the party support in polls. However, both Clinton and Obama possess fatal flaws that should temper the enthusiasm of any Democrat hoping to win 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. with either senator at the top of the ticket. Sen. Clinton might be the most reviled politician among Republicans, and she would bring out the wrath of the right in unprecedented strength. Conservative-leaning battleground states such as Virginia, Missouri and Florida would be near impossibilities, with odds in other swing states such as Iowa and New Mexico measurably reduced. Furthermore, she would be dogged by Bill Clinton’s skeletons and risk being overshadowed by her larger-than-life ex-president husband.
Sen. Obama also faces daunting and substantive hurdles to becoming president. He is only two years removed from the Illinois Senate, rendering him inexperienced in the complexities of key campaign issues such as foreign policy and military affairs. Moreover, his social liberalism could alienate many socially conservative Democrats in the same key battleground states mentioned above. Unfortunately, the fact that he is African-American may overshadow his competency among many voters, further rendering him an incomplete candidate. While he may be the articulate, handsome and charismatic leader the Democrats have been searching for since Bill Clinton left the White House, Sen. Obama is simply too inexperienced to be the leader of the free world.
While both of these candidates could easily, and may very well, win the Democratic nomination, I remain skeptical of their ability to win the general election. That does not mean the Democrats are hopeless, however; New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson can be the party’s saving grace, but only if the party wakes up in time to embrace him.
Gov. Richardson’s résumé speaks for itself: a two-term governor of New Mexico, a key battleground state; a seven-term congressman; a former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations under Bill Clinton; a former Secretary of Energy under Bill Clinton; and a former chairman of the Democratic Governors’ Association. He has executive, legislative and international experience, all essential ingredients for a successful president.
Richardson, as the only Hispanic contender, has the greatest chance of instituting immigration reform (he supports comprehensive immigration reform), he can win the Hispanic vote in swing states such as Florida and he can attract Republican moderate crossover voters. He has clout in energy policy, as the former energy secretary and proponent of alternate fuels to help solve America’s oil dependency. He has cut taxes and expanded jobs in New Mexico and enjoys the libertarian Cato Institute’s top ranking of any Democrat for fiscal and economic policy. Also, he would dominate New Mexico in any national election, a state that tilted toward Bush in 2004. Richardson’s regional notoriety could shift Colorado and Arizona, both competitive Bush-leaning states.
He conducts himself with the same suave yet unpolished charm of the other governor-turned-president, Bill Clinton. He is notorious for getting speeding tickets, claiming he is too busy getting things done to follow the posted limits. He is as confident as his résumé is strong, as bold as his approval ratings are high (65 percent in New Mexico). He is the most qualified possible candidate for president in either party.
And so the Democratic Party is faced with a choice: either nominating Barack or Hilary, or victory in 2008. If they choose the latter, all roads to the White House lead through New Mexico, and Bill Richardson speeds wherever he goes.
Will Smith (wsmith@badgerherald.com) is a freshman majoring in political science and religious studies.
Anonymous (January 19, 2007 @ 3:24pm):
Beacuse I'm too lazy to sign up....
I was looking up Bill Richardson using google news and low and behold, the UW Badger Herald should come up (as a UW Grad Student, I decided I must take a look...).
Anyway, I can't agree more. I've been calling for Bill since he announced his run back in 2005 (or, that's when he told the DNC about it). The other guys in the office don't have an opinion about him yet and are all quit star struck over Obama. Well, I tell ya, Bill is the real deal. Perhaps getting Obama as VP (to secure him as the next prez once Ricahardson serves 8 years of course). Anyway, I think the DNC needs to wake up to this guy. I think he has the right stuff. The only problem is that he could stand to lose a little weight (as appearance does matter - unless your last name is Taft).
Anonymous (January 19, 2007 @ 6:10pm):
Bill is the only who can win & without question unite America.
I wish there was a capable one on the republican side(maybe one will come forth)if so I'd be almost in heaven.
We need outsiders(non Beltway types ) with moderate views!
America's greatest stength is that our people don't like governement, prefer slow but slightly progressive changes, honesty,love of God and humanity.
I'm American and English since both my parents served in their respetive armed forces during World War II.
My mother and I joined my American dad to live in America.
I grew in Massachussetts,lived in Minnesota , California and New York and Massachuseets again during the last presidental elections.
Although most of the people from Kerry's state never wanted him to be the Democratic candidate for president(my opinion) he would have done much better than Bush.
-the issue was that my fellow Baystaters saw him as unelectable.
He was an excellent Senator for us & still is but viewed by us a a very long shot for winning over President Bush.(those darn liberals).
Let's cut to chase Hillary, Mitt Romney McCain, Omar, Chuch Nagel can't do what we need.
As a seasoned world traveler Iran, Irag, Quait, need I say more?
We need newer players (non Washington but seasoned eperinced players .
Bill Richardson is our man!
Michael-RI
Anonymous (January 21, 2007 @ 11:10am):
I'm a New Mexican (Albuquerque) and I've followed Richardson's career closely, meeting him twice socially. New Mexico's had three excellent Governors in a row (one of them Republican): we elect intelligently.
Will Smith's right on every point.
Richardson is the real deal: strong, thoughtful, absolutely brilliant, HIGHLY energetic, and his obvious personal character explains part of his tremendous success internationally...with Africans, Koreans, Arabs, and Americans. He has a better track record than any presidential candidate in my 63 years.
The White House desperately needs a real man ...the GOP will field fakes (in fantasy I'd consider Ms. Rice if Clinton or Obama were nominated). Heather Wilson, New Mexico's GOP Congresswoman might be presidential material in a few years, as well.
Democrats should not shoot themselves in the foot with Mrs. Clinton: remember her nightmare health plan as First Lady? (alone might explain Monica). Mr. Obama has not as yet accomplished anything significant in government...we don't need a Democrat version of W... but let's revisit him in 12 years.
Anonymous (January 21, 2007 @ 11:42am):
As a native New Mexican who has lived in DC, Puerto Rico and now Florida, I can tell you Bill Richardson would make an excellent president. I nearly worked for him as a congressman in DC, only a better, different job offer kept me from doing that, but I would have been proud to work for him in the mid 1980's as I will be campaigning for him now. In New Mexico, he was just re-elected with over 68% of the vote - more Republicans voted for him than any other Democrat has ever gotten. He has raised the profile of a small, economically poor state, he has helped bring new energy and progress to the state,all while cutting taxes in a fiscally responsible way. As a Latino, he has cross-cultural appeal and would greatly help in states with large Latino populations. And he has the legislative, administrative and executive experience from all his positions he has held. Why do the North Koreans still want to deal with him over the current administration? Why is he able to go to Sudan and make progress on Darfur? He'll help bring civility back to Washington, something sorely needed. This is only anonymous because I didn't create an account, but I am Latino myself, and currently living in Florida, where I plan to do everything I can to promote Bill Richardson.
Mauro Montoya
Anonymous (January 21, 2007 @ 11:52am):
I am an old retired M.D., formerly a strong Democrat, from Arkansas, that left the Democrat party when JFK was assinated and LBJ
became president and essentially destroyed the Democratic party. I do not belong to the Republican party, but have supported them on a national level for many years.
If Bill Richardson becomes the Democratic nominee for president, I can assure you that I, and millions of other former moderate or conservative Democratic voters will become strong supporters of his bid to become President.
I have known the Clintons personally since Bill was a law professor at the University of Arkansas. Hillary Clinton
running as the nominee for the Democratic party would be the greatest gift the Republican party could possibly receive.
Bill Richardson will have my support, my family's support, and most of the the people of this country that wishes the best
possible leader in these difficult times.
Anonymous (January 21, 2007 @ 1:18pm):
Will
Great insight into the realities of the 2008 campaign. You are exactly on target. My fear is that celebrities will trump the solid value of the NM Governor and another less qualified candidate will win.
Its really unfortunate that most of our electorate make decisions based on emotion rather than reason.
In the end we get what we deserve(elect).
Richardson is what we desperately need at this time to repair our country after being ravaged by the Bush "experiment".
Keep up the good work. I will remember your name when it comes up in print again.
Peter Scheer
BSME 1975
Anonymous (January 21, 2007 @ 7:45pm):
Governor Richardson IS the man for the job, he has proven himself time and time again in his many years of public service to our great country and to the beautiful state of New Mexico, his resume speaks for itself and no other presidential candidate has the type of resume that Bill Richardson has.
Anonymous (January 21, 2007 @ 9:54pm):
Nominating Hillary orBarack or victory in '08! We should send that one to DNC so they come back to reality!!Richardson is why I became Democrat...the right choice for all the right reasons&who would represent ALL the people NOT just the extreme fringes of the left who bankroll Clinton/Barack.
Anonymous (January 21, 2007 @ 11:29pm):
I agree. I have watched Governor Richardson's career over many years. For a couple of years I have thought he would make a good Democratic candidate. I would like to win the office and I feel that the present frontrunners while both excellent people cannot win a general election. This comes from nearly 50 years of participating in Democratic Party politics.
Sue in Tennessee
Anonymous (January 22, 2007 @ 5:30am):
This was certainly a well-thought piece which highlights the Democrat-ic choices to be made in the next election year. Mrs.Clinton may be shrewd, but she gives the impression that she would do anything to become President. Obama, while a beacon for all minority groups, lacks political experience and this will certainly hurt his chances for success.
Bill Richardson as President of the USA? I would certainly hope so! The man is remarkably intelligent yet can easily connect with the man on the street. He has a great reputation for honesty and integrity. He is well-respected not only by Americans, but by the world at large as well. If there was ever an honest man who fit the bill for President of the USA, Gov. Richardson is it!
Anonymous (January 22, 2007 @ 8:38am):
I agree with you and hope that my fellow democrats come to the same conclusion. Bill has the talents most need by our nation at this time in history.
Anonymous (January 22, 2007 @ 10:53am):
I love Bill Richardson's finally making a decision to run. I had been thinking about his candidacy for quite some time. I can not register now since I am unable to contribute MONEY,just my encouragemnt at this time.
Anonymous (January 22, 2007 @ 12:20pm):
I think that his Hispanic-ness is not as useful as you think. Your logic concludes that minorities will vote for their minority candidate; however, aren't there more women in America than Hispanics? Therefore, Hillary Clinton would be guaranteed at least 50% of the vote.
We will all have to wait for the debates. Hopefully the candidates don't canibalize one another and hand Grampa McCain the presidency.
Anonymous (January 22, 2007 @ 5:02pm):
Excellent column, Will. All of your arguments are well explained and written with conviction. I too agree that Gov. Richardson is our only hope, and is far more electable than Clinton, Obama, Edwards, or any senator. Senators can't win. The Democrats must understand that the important thing is TO WIN. Trying to "make history" with Clinton or Obama as the nominee (although well-intentioned) carries enormous risk, and will ultimately snatch defeat out of the jaws of victory.
Bill Richardson has the most impressive combination of relevant experience, background, accomplishment and charisma, and he is clearly the best candidate.
His interview on "This Week with George" was a HOME RUN.
Anonymous (January 22, 2007 @ 7:42pm):
As a resident of New Mexico for more than 40 years I am very familiar with Bill Richardson and what he had done for this state and the nation. He IS the man for the presidency. His credentcials speak for themself. I would really like to see a Richardson\Obama ticket. I think that is the strongest ticket the Dems can produce.
Thank you for a place to express my opinion.
Anonymous (January 22, 2007 @ 8:19pm):
Not that I follow astrollogy closely, but I believe Bill is an Aires. What I like about Aires-They are up front, you know where they stand, they get things done! They are doers.
Anonymous (January 22, 2007 @ 8:27pm):
I agree that he is supremely well qualified and am looking forward to becoming more familiar with his positions on policies. I wish he was pro-life but I doubt that he is given that he is a contender for the nomination of the Democratic Party. It's hard for me to understand how someone as inexperienced as O'Bama is such a strong contender. I expect that his inexperience will become more of an issue once people start comparing the candidates more seriously though. I would have liked a Richardson against Rice race for the Presidency. Then we would have had a choice between two eminently qualified candidates. Oh well, I've got my eye on Richardson and hope that he convinces me to vote for him. He has already sold me on his experience in areas that will be crucial for the next President: foreign policy, energy, fiscal responsibility, economic growth, social justice, and immigration.
Anonymous (January 23, 2007 @ 12:55am):
During these times of great concern about woldwide stability and the increasing threat of 'radicalism', not to mention the issues we face in the homeland, it gives me hope to see Governor Richardson's bid for President.
I agree with your assesment. There is alot of experience and SUCESSFUL negotiations that Governor Richardson has to offer. His resume, accomplishments and character is exactly what this country needs at this point in history. He is a true diplomat, but stands firm when necesary.
If his message can get out, they will come.
Anonymous (January 23, 2007 @ 10:42am):
Great piece. Well written, and I'm convinced.
Anonymous (January 23, 2007 @ 8:10pm):
Absolutely wonderful article Will!!!!
I'm so stoked that Governor Richardson is planning to run!
I can't wait for the debates - Governor Richardson will do an incredible job!
~GOVERNOR BILL RICHARDSON '08~
Anonymous (January 25, 2007 @ 7:52pm):
I totally agree with this article! I have been campaigning around my family and friends for Gov. Richardson for months, well actually, for years! I had hoped that he would run in 2004. I am certain that he is the most electable of all candidates. The other candidates may seem good, but especially in the south, Clinton and Obama won't stand a chance--they just aren't progressive enough there to accept women and African-Americans. Unlike other candidates, I like that Gov. Richardson has had foreign policy experience, as well as governing experience. He seems to be plesant, serious, and professional. I definitely think that his candidacy is made stronger by the fact the southwest may well be a battlefield area. I just hope that as the campagin rolls on, voters won't be star-struck, and will go with what is best for the country. I think that Bill Richardson is the right man for the country. Good luck, Mr. Governor!
Anonymous (January 27, 2007 @ 1:24pm):
You are correct. This is the Democratic Party and America's only chance to to elect a relevant President in 2007. However, I am afraid money talks. Unless Richardson can get monetary support soon, it will be over before it begins.
Anonymous (February 10, 2007 @ 12:12pm):
I am from Barack Obama's home state of Illinois. Many of us believe that he and Hillary are the front runners; however, many of us have not thought of the possibility of Gov. Bill Richardson being a formidable candidate. Based alone on the conversations that I have had with many people in Illinois believe that the Gov. can win the primarie and in the general election. Besides, his experience he is a touching and electrifying campaigner who can win it all. The Gov. can raise the neccessary capital to win the Iowa and New Hampshire Caucauses. Yet, he will need to position himself as the strongest candidate against the war and run on his social policy implementation in New Mexico.
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