Washington for Richardson

Letter to the Editor Published Today

2007-10-17T21:04:00.000-07:00

Richardson would bring all troops home

In a recent Democratic presidential candidates’ debate at Dartmouth, we finally got to see where the candidates really stand on Iraq.

Of the top four candidates, only one committed to bringing all of the troops home within his first term as president: Gov. Bill Richardson. It’s no coincidence that Richardson is the candidate with the most foreign policy experience and possesses diplomatic skills unsurpassed by any of his rivals.

Sens. Clinton, Obama and Edwards all have said they would leave troops in Iraq, and in the debate, were unable to commit to getting all of the troops out before 2013.

Residual troops equals stay the course, and that’s simply unacceptable. Bill Richardson is a proven leader with real results, and he’s committed to bringing Bush’s foreign policy debacle to an end immediately. Can we afford another five years of stay the course? I don’t think so.

Ken Camp, Tumwater

Governor Richardson In The News

2007-10-04T08:19:00.000-07:00

Tonight, Charles Gibson will interview Governor Richardson on ABC's World News Tonight. Click on the link and go leave a comment in support of Governor Richardson.

I've also learned from campaign staff that Governor Richardson will also be on POTUS 08 (XM radio station) today at 1 pm ET and 10 pm ET.The program is on XM Radio channel 130.

UPDATE: Governor Richardson will be on This Week with George Stephanopolous this Sunday. The show airs live at 9am ET, though for our friends in New Mexico it won't air until 4pm. So check your local listings.

Live from the WSDCC Meeting in Wenatchee

2007-09-29T14:20:00.000-07:00

I'm at the Washington State Democrats Central Committee meeting this weekend, representing Bill Richardson for President, signing up new supporters and making connections with Democrats around the state. Thanks to Aaron Belenky, Jack Arends and Becky Graham for all of their support and hard work this weekend. Without them, this would have been a one-man show.

Last night, Aaron Belenky hosted the Richardson for President hospitality suite. With the help of Aaron's projector and my laptop we showed Governor Richardson's new ad (the 5 minute version) that lays out his positioon on Iraq and clearly delineates where the other candidates stand. The video was looped and played over and over endlessly, until the battery died on the laptop. We received a great reception from Democrats from around Washington state. Everyone was very positive about Governor Richardson, many are already supporting him, and those who weren't had him as their second choice. I'm pleasantly surprised by the level of support we're seeing from the party faithful, and think that we're on the cusp of becoming a more visible force in Washington.

I also spoke to the Washington State Democrats Hispanic/Latino caucus this morning and gave out literature on Mi Familia Con Richardson. Many of the caucus members had met Governor Richardson in May when he came out to Seattle. This morning they welcomed me to the "family". The Latino caucus is very excited and motivated about supporting Governor Richardson's campaign and so we're working to turn that into action.

In addition, we've got a DNC vacancy to fill, and one of the candidates is a supporter of Governor Richardson. So, I've been providing assistance to her campaign to get appointed, so that we can increase the number of friends that Governor Richardson has on the DNC.

We've also signed up some new supporters and picked up a number of endorsements of party leaders while we've been here in Wenatchee. This support will be crucial when we get out the vote for our caucuses.

So it's been a very good weekend for the campaign here in Washington, and people out here are very positive about Bill Richardson and ready to get the campaign rolling.

Quoted in the National Journal's Blogometer

2007-09-26T21:36:00.000-07:00

As a result of my post yesterday on The Left Coaster, which is directly below this post, I was quoted in today's edition of National Journal's Blogometer.

RICHARDSON: Anti-Kabuki

It is unclear how many people Bill Richardson is winning over with his new television ads featuring bloggers talking about the importance of the 'residual troops' issue, but many appreciate the effort. blogs: "I'm not sure why Bill Richardson thinks putting netroots activists in his ad attempting to raise the issue will help him, but I'm glad he's raising the issue. ... One fears that Richardson may have committed too many gaffes at this point to gain traction, but I hope this ad helps him and forces the other candidates to start addressing this issue." The Left Coaster's Ken Camp writes: "Don't be fooled by the kabuki dance or rhetorical gymnastics of the other candidates. Residual troops equals stay the course, and that's simply unacceptable."

How Many? For How Long?

2007-09-26T21:35:00.000-07:00

[I posted this yesterday over at The Left Coaster, but didn't have time to post it here.]

Governor Bill Richardson has been asking these questions of all of the other Democratic candidates, yet none is able to provide a clear, decisive answer to how many troops they'll leave in Iraq.

Yesterday, I participated in a phone conference with Governor Richardson's Campaign Manager Dave Contarino, Chris Bowers and Matt Stoller of Open Left, and Christina Siun O'Connell of Firedoglake, to announce Governor Richardson's latest effort to get the American people an answer to the question of how many troops will be left behind in Iraq depending on which Democrat becomes the next President.

Governor Richardson has teamed up with Chris, Matt, and Christina to film a new ad that shows precisely the differences among the candidates on Iraq. The bottom line: Bill Richardson is the only candidate, among the top four, who has emphatically stated that he will remove all American troops from Iraq.

Opponents of Governor Richardson's plan have tried to muddy the waters by questioning whether the United States Marines who guard the embassy in Iraq are considered residual troops. They are not. All United States Embassies are considered sovereign U.S. soil and are guarded by a contingent of Marines. Bill Richardson, as with every other candidate, would leave the Marines in Iraq to guard the embassy, as is done with all other embassies in the world. The question is, in addition to those United States Marines who will guard the embassy, how many troops will each of the candidates leave in Iraq. Bill Richardson will leave no troops in Iraq. What about Senators Clinton, Obama and Edwards?

You can add your voice to the strong chorus of Americans calling on the candidates to tell us how many troops they'll leave in Iraq and for how long. Governor Richardson has set up a new website: Get Our Troops Out, where your voice can be heard. The website also has a very cool map that shows the location of people across the nation who have joined Bill Richardson's call to end the war now and get all the troops out. So go to Get Our Troops Out today and join the cause.

Don't be fooled by the kabuki dance or rhetorical gymnastics of the other candidates. Residual troops equals stay the course, and that's simply unacceptable.

Governor Gregoire to Remain Neutral on Campaign

2007-09-20T22:08:00.000-07:00

So says David Postman:

Because fellow governor Bill Richardson is in the race for the Democratic nomination, Greogire [sic] said she is remaining neutral out of respect for him. If he drops out, Gregoire would only say she's looking, as she said most people are, at the top three candidates, Edwards, Obama and Clinton. [emphasis mine]

End of the Quarter Fundraiser

2007-09-13T09:44:00.000-07:00

We're getting to the end of the 3rd quarter of fundraising, and Bill Richardson needs our support to keep the momentum going. So, I've set up a Washington state fundraising page on the Richardson for President website. My goal is for this group to raise $750 by September 30. This is a realistic goal that I know we can reach, as we have 125 members in our group on the website, and many more supporters who read this blog.

I'm asking each of you to give Bill Richardson $6 to keep getting his message of change and experience out. I can sacrifice going to Starbucks twice next week in order to make a difference in our country. Will you help? Even if you're unable to give $6, please donate whatever amount you can. Every little bit helps.Together, we can all make a difference in this campaign.

Here is the link to the fundraising page, and please click on contribute now and make your donation before midnight on September 30.

http://action.richardsonforpresident.com/page/outreach/view/raise/kencamp

Thanks for your continued support for Bill Richardson for President.

Why Get Out of Iraq Now?

2007-09-09T13:18:00.000-07:00

Governor Richardson answers that question in an op-ed published in the Washington Post, while laying out his plan for ending George Bush's war and calling out his rivals on how many troops they would leave in Iraq and for how long.

Our troops have done everything they were asked to do with courage and professionalism, but they cannot win someone else's civil war. So long as American troops are in Iraq, reconciliation among Iraqi factions is postponed. Leaving forces there enables the Iraqis to delay taking the necessary steps to end the violence. And it prevents us from using diplomacy to bring in other nations to help stabilize and rebuild the country.

The presence of American forces in Iraq weakens us in the war against al-Qaeda. It endows the anti-American propaganda of those who portray us as occupiers plundering Iraq's oil and repressing Muslims. The day we leave, this myth collapses, and the Iraqis will drive foreign jihadists out of their country. Our departure would also enable us to focus on defeating the terrorists who attacked us on Sept. 11, those headquartered along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border -- not in Iraq.

Logistically, it would be possible to withdraw in six to eight months. We moved as many as 240,000 troops into and out of Iraq through Kuwait in as little as a three-month period during major troop rotations. After the Persian Gulf War, we redeployed nearly a half-million troops in a few months. We could redeploy even faster if we negotiated with the Turks to open a route out through Turkey.

As our withdrawal begins, we will gain diplomatic leverage. Iraqis will start seeing us as brokers, not occupiers. Iraq's neighbors will face the reality that if they don't help with stabilization, they will face the consequences of Iraq's collapse -- including even greater refugee flows over their borders and possible war.

This is the kind of plan that can only be conceived by a seasoned foreign policy operative. The reason Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and John Edwards won't answer the question is because none of them has the foreign policy experience necessary to stand up to today's foreign policy challenges and restore American prestige in the global community. Only Bill Richardson can lead us out of Iraq and bring a new realism to American foreign policy.

Univision Debate Today

2007-09-09T08:34:00.001-07:00

Tune in at 6:30pm Eastern/5:30pm Central/4:30pm Mountain/3:30pm Pacific for the Univision debate in Miami. This is the debate that's aimed at the Latino community, and there is no doubt that Governor Richardson will do well.

You can watch the debate on Univision, watch the streaming video at Univision.com, or listen on RadioCadena.

Please note that though Governor Richardson and Senator Dodd both speak fluent Spanish, and will likely answer the questions in that language, the debate will mostly be conducted in English and translated.

How About Some Experience for a Change?

2007-09-06T22:10:00.000-07:00

Got experience? And how about some change too?

While Democratic Senators would like to capitulate to President Bush on timetables, Bill Richardson wants all American troops out of Iraq. So answer the question Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and John Edwards. How many troops will you leave behind and for how long?

It's Time For Some Answers

2007-08-30T21:40:00.000-07:00

In an e-mail to supporters today, Governor Richardson called out his fellow Democratic candidates on how many troops they'd leave behind in Iraq and for how long.

All the major Democratic candidates say they are eager to end this war, and they all say they don’t believe there is a military solution in Iraq. Why, then, do they maintain that we must leave an indefinite number of troops behind for an indeterminate amount of time to work hopelessly towards a military solution everyone says doesn’t exist?

It is time to get a straight answer from all the other candidates: how many troops would you leave behind? For how long?

Bill Richardson's position has been clear and strong: No troops left behind. None, zero, zip, zilch, nada. Not one residual troop left in Iraq.

Markos just wants the other Democrats to answer the damn question already.

"How many troops will you leave behind in Iraq."

Anything above the security detail for the US embassy in Baghdad (all U.S. embassies in the world have Marine guards) is one troop too many. You want advisors to train Iraqi troops, you want a strike force to hit terrorist camps and whatnot, stick them over the horizon in Kuwait.

But if nothing else, can we please just get a clear answer to that damn question?

Over at Open Left, Chris Bowers shows his disdain for candidates who dodge this serious question.

I applaud Richardson's efforts on this front, just as I applauded MSNBC when they attempted to get straight answers from candidates on how many troops they intend to leave in Iraq if they become President. However, if my experience on this front is any indication, even if this question is asked at the Univision debate, in all likelihood no one except Richardson and Biden will answer the question (Kucinich and Gravel might, since it is hard to predict what they do). The question will be labeled hypothetical, and the response will be that they will listen to the commanders on the ground. And then, the debate will move on to the next question.

The more I think about this dodge from Clinton, Obama, and Edwards on how many troops they intend to leave in Iraq, the angrier I become. Why is an inquiry into how many troops they intend to leave in Iraq a hypothetical question not worthy of an answer, but inquiries into how much their health care plans will reduce the cost of insurance premiums a hypoethical question worthy of prominently displaying an answer to on your website?

And Jerome Armstrong of MyDD has previously said of Governor Richardson's plans for Iraq:

I think Richardson, more and more, is showing the strongest voice on getting out of Iraq, and unlike Clinton or Edwards, Obama is not going to be able to shut down Richardson's move to his left, based on the 2002 vote.

So sign the petition and demand that the other Democratic candidates stand up and unequivocally state their position on how many troops they'll leave in Iraq and for how long.

We've always known where Bill Richardson stands. Where do the others stand?

Bill Richardson Calls For Congressional Fortitude on Iraq

2007-08-30T06:52:00.001-07:00

With reports that President George W. Bush will request an additional $50 million in funding for the war in Iraq, Bill Richardson issued the following statement:

"The only appropriation Congress should pass for this war is funding for a safe and quick withdrawal. This Congress was elected to end the war in Iraq. They need to stand up to President Bush and do the job. This is an issue where leadership means no compromises. It took us too many years and far too many lives to end the war in Vietnam, and we cannot repeat that mistake.

"Congress should use every power at its disposal to end this war, including de-authorization and refusing to fund the war beyond what is necessary for the safe redeployment of our troops.

"George Bush should show less concern about his legacy and pay more attention to the lives of our men and women in harm’s way. The best way to support our troops is to get them all out of Iraq as soon as it can safely be accomplished.

"This administration miscalculated the intelligence before the war, mismanaged the war itself, bungled the surge, and now has the audacity to ask Congress for more funding to continue this tragic misadventure. The answer should be a resounding no." [emphasis mine]

In other words, deauthorize the war and get all of the troops out ASAP. No compromises, no games, straight to the point.

Richardson Gets Some Love on Iraq

2007-08-29T10:13:00.000-07:00

Of the top four Democratic Presidential candidates, Bill Richardson has the strongest plan, calling for ending the war now (he's been calling for that for months) and leaving no residual troops. But, as Chris Weigant notices, Bill Richardson is also the candidate most willing to share details of his plan.

Bill Richardson is one of the most consistent voices in the Democratic campaign on Iraq. He not only wants to begin withdrawing troops, he wants them all out in six months. All of them. This is significant because many of the other candidates refuse to give an honest answer to the question: How many troops would you leave behind, and for how long? Richardson does so admirably.

He lays out his 7 point plan on his website, in an attempt to answer every question about how exactly we should get out of Iraq. This is also significant, because many of the candidates' websites are severely lacking in details, instead merely hitting broad generalities. Richardson tells you exactly what he wants to do on Iraq, in enough detail to answer your questions but not with so much minutiæ that your eyes glaze over. He seems to have struck a perfect balance on how to address the issue.

After 6+ years of government operating in secret, you'd think that Democratic candidates would be eager to share their plans for a new direction for American foreign policy. I'm saying that Richardson's rivals are hiding something, but perhaps they're not forthcoming because none of them has the foreign policy chops that Richardson has and it would show if they released a detailed plan.

Richardson Fights Cancer, Promotes Health Care at Forum

2007-08-28T21:03:00.000-07:00

As someone who has had 1 aunt, 1 uncle, 2 grandfathers, 1 great-uncle, and 1 cousin die of cancer, and another cousin currently suffering from the disease, I was happy to see Governor Richardson take part in Lance Armstrong's LIVESTRONG Presidential forum yesterday.

There's no way around it: cancer sucks. We all know someone who has been affected by this disease and we need a federal government committed to research for a cure.

Here is the video of Governor Richardson at the LIVESTRONG forum.

Mi Familia Con Richardson

2007-08-28T20:42:00.000-07:00

Last week Governor Richardson launched his new national grassroots Latino outreach program: Mi Familia Con Richardson.

Here are two old friends from Los Angeles (I worked with both of them at L.A. City Council), Assemblymember Felipe Fuentes and Senator Alex Padilla talking about their involvement in Mi Familia.

First up is Felipe, the newest member of the California State Assembly.

And next is Alex, who when I knew him was the youngest Council President in city history.

Para español venga aqui y aqui.

Bill Richardson's Plan for Jobs and the Economy

2007-08-16T13:50:00.000-07:00

Today, Governor Bill Richardson outlined his plan for the future of American jobs and the economy on day three of his six day trip to Iowa.

You can find the text of the speech, entitled Creating a New American Century of Prosperity, here.

Here are some of the highlights of the plan:

Fiscal Responsibility -- Ending the war in Iraq and eliminating wasteful spending at home. Governor Richardson believes that fiscal responsibility begins with getting all of our troops out of Iraq - leaving NO residual forces behind. He will repeal the Bush tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans and slash Congressional earmarks and corporate welfare. Using this money, a Richardson Administration will:
Eliminate the Alternative Minimum Tax that squeezes the middle class;
Establish a Rural Jobs Tax Credit for employers in less populous areas;
Reward companies that pay workers above the prevailing wage with a tax credit; and
Promote Green Jobs in renewable energy to help transform America into a"Clean Energy Nation."
Technology and Innovation -- Promoting research and development and improving educational opportunities in math and science. Governor Richardson knows that America's future depends on investing in technology and education. As President, Richardson will:
Foster investment in new technology by doubling and making permanent the Research and Experimentation Tax Credit;
Establish a federal Angel Investor Tax Credit to promote investment in hi-tech industries;
Develop innovation through regional Innovation Summits that unite disparate groups to spark the economy;
Hire 100,000 new math and science teachers to increase our children's competitiveness;
Build 250 Math, Science, and Innovation Academies by 2012 to train the next generation of American scientists, mathematicians, engineers, and teachers.
Investing in the American Workforce -- Protecting our most valuable asset, the American people. As he did as Governor of New Mexico, President Bill Richardson will support the businesses and workers that are key to American prosperity. Richardson will:
Index the minimum wage to inflation;
Offer rebates to businesses for hiring economically underprivileged high school and college students;
Bolster America's economy and infrastructure by creating incentives for green building; and
Protect the rights of workers by defending the practice of collective bargaining and supporting the Employee Free Choice Act.

I also posted recently about Governor Richardson's strong record of standing up for working families, and how his economic policies have turned New Mexico around.

As President, Bill Richardson will bring those who aren't the richest 1% back to the table.

Focused

2007-08-15T08:41:00.001-07:00

Here is Governor Richardson's latest ad which touts his experience in turning round the New Mexico economy.

Richardson Health Care Plan Detailed in Quad City Times

2007-08-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

Governor Richardson outlined some details of his health care plan in a column in this morning's Quad City Times.

My plan is a common-sense approach that builds upon existing systems, offers well-established coverage options, and provides Americans with choices of affordable care:

1. Working families and small businesses will be able to purchase the same coverage available to the president and members of Congress.

2. We will allow Americans 55 to 64 to buy in to Medicare.

3. We will strengthen the Veterans Administration and create a Heroes Health Card to provide veterans with high-quality care, without bureaucratic hassles.

4. We will enable dependent young adults to remain on their parents’ plans until the age of 25, reducing their costs and increasing coverage.

5. Families who want to keep their current health insurance will have the freedom to do so.

6. Insurance companies will no longer be able to deny coverage for pre-existing conditions.

My plan also keeps coverage affordable:

-- A sliding scale tax credit will help families obtain coverage.

-- My plan will cap interest charges on personal credit card medical debt.

-- As with auto insurance, all Americans will be required to have health coverage and employers will pay their fair share of employee health-care costs.

-- We will control costs by streamlining administration, implementing electronic medical records and simplifying hospital regulation.

-- We will also emphasize preventive care and healthier lifestyle choices. In my state we improved the rate of fully immunized children, took junk food out of schools and put physical education back in. Investments in preventive care will create a healthier America and save billions of dollars.

I'll post more on the Richardson health care plan later, as more details emerge.

Richardson to Unveil Universal Health Care Plan Today

2007-08-07T09:00:00.001-07:00

In just a couple of hours, Governor Richardson will be unveiling his universal health care plan in a speech before the Iowa Professional Firefighters Local 15 in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

"My plan focuses on guaranteeing universal coverage, keeping down the cost of care for all, and improving care in general. My plan provides affordable health coverage choices to every American, without raising taxes," said Governor Richardson. "I am excited to share my plan for universal healthcare -- I am confident it is the best plan for our nation's future."

Here is an executive summary of the Richardson health care plan as presented at Richardson for President. Stay tuned for more details on Governor Richardson's plan as they get released today.

Governor Richardson on Homeland Security

2007-08-06T10:53:00.000-07:00

Here is Governor Richardson talking about Homeland Security at the Yearly Kos Candidates Forum on August 3.

Yearly Kos Update: Governor Richardson Arrives

2007-08-04T10:24:00.001-07:00

Governor Richardson has arrived at the McCormick Center. As far as I can tell he's the first candidate here. After giving a TV interview, the Governor is doing what he does best: meeting the people. He's currently in the ballroom shaking hands and meeting the 1500 or so Yearly Kos convention-goers.

It should be to his advantage to be here early, because Governor Richardson gets a chance to mix and mingle with the progressive blogosphere, and not just fly in and fly out. By showing up early, Governor Richardson is showing how much he values conversation with the netroots and is willing to engage in the 2-way conversation.

More later...

Yearly Kos Update

2007-08-04T08:38:00.001-07:00

It's an exciting day here at Yearly Kos. Around 1pm the Democratic presidential candidates (with the exception of Senator Biden) will be here to participate in a forum. Governor Richardson is already in town, coming in from Iowa last night.

In talking with people in other exhibit booths and fellow Kossacks, there seems to be a lot of interest in Governor Richardson. People appreciate how the Governor actually listens when you're talking to him and how he understands retail politics. The bottom line is that people just want a candidate to listen to them. Governor Richardson wins with people because he's open to meeting anyone, anytime and having a two-way conversation.

In addition to our booth here at Yearly Kos, the other candidates have their booths. It's interesting to note that the Edwards campaign booth is filled with inflatable furniture, but doesn't appear to be staffed. We've heard comments about people not being happy that Edwards staff isn't around to staff the booth.

I'm planning to live blog the presidential forum here, and following that session, Governor Richardson will be hosting a break-out session where he talks about his plan for Iraq and his experiences dealing with the bad guys of the world. It promises to be a great session. We've even had people telling us that Governor Richardson's session is completely full and asking if we sneak them in.

Live from Yearly Kos

2007-08-03T10:47:00.001-07:00

I'm sitting here with Cara Valente-Compton in the Richardson for President booth at Yearly Kos. It's a constant flow of people who are seeking more information about the campaign and checking out the other vendors and campaigns.

So far it's been really positive, with new people signing up at Richardson for President, and picking up flyers with information on Governor Richardson's positions on various issues, as well as walking away with their Richardson swag.

Governor Richardson will be here tomorrow to participate in a forum with the other Democratic candidates, and then will have a breakout session which Emmett wrote about earlier.

I'll post more later, so watch for the updates.

New TV Ad Highlights Richardson's Energy Plan

2007-07-31T21:57:00.000-07:00

Airing in Iowa, here is Governor Richardson's new TV ad which highlights his energy plan which has been highly acclaimed b the Sierra Club as the most aggressive, best plan of any of the candidates.

Former Members of Congress Endorse Richardson

2007-07-26T21:30:00.001-07:00

Today, Governor Richardson announced the endorsement of several former members of Congress, including former Arizona Democratic Party Chair and Congressman Sam Coppersmith, former Georgia Congressman Buddy Darden, and former Michigan Congressman Bob Carr.

Here is what they had to say about Governor Richardson:

"Having represented Arizona in Congress, I know that Governor Richardson shares our Western values. He stands for fiscal responsibility, protection of our environment, and an aggressive move towards energy independence," said former Congressman and former Arizona Democratic Party Chair Sam Coppersmith of Arizona. "I am excited to help Governor Richardson win in Arizona and across the West."

"Not only does Governor Richardson have the strongest record on the issues and the boldest vision for the future, he can also win in every part of the country. In his last campaign, he earned almost seventy percent of the vote in the red state of New Mexico. People of all political stripes are attracted to his extraordinary record of public service and his common-sense vision of governance," said former Congressman Buddy Darden of Georgia. "I will work tirelessly to make sure that the great state of Georgia is with Bill Richardson."

"Governor Richardson is the strong, decisive leader that our country needs so badly. Of all the candidates, Richardson has the best combination of vision for getting us out of Iraq and turning around our public schools, with the experience and record of accomplishment to implement these important policies," said former Congressman Bob Carr of Michigan. "He knows how to bring people together to make real progress on the issues that count."

Governor Richardson has also previously been endorsed by the following former members of Congress:

Elizabeth Furse (D-OR)

Ken Holland (D-SC)

Ronnie Flippo (D-AL)

Bill Hefner (D-NC)

Don Bonker (D-WA)

Ask Bill

2007-07-26T21:12:00.001-07:00

You've got questions, and Governor Bill Richardson has answers. He's cutting out the middleman and bringing his campaign live and direct to your home. Below is the text of an e-mail Governor Richardson just sent to supporters. Click the icon on the right sidebar to ask Bill Richardson your question.

Dear Ken,

Monday night's CNN/YouTube debate was a breath of fresh air. Finally, it was the people, not media personalities, deciding what to ask.

But good, honest questions are not enough if you never get a chance to answer them.

I couldn't be happier with the answers I gave and the stands I took, but this song and dance is getting old. Every time we have a major media outlet debate, two or three of the candidates get most of the questions and most of the time while every other candidate is left with a fraction of the time, and a fraction of the questions. And some of the most important questions go unanswered.

I think there is a better way. Rather than trying to make the old media change their ways, I'm going to go straight to the source: you.

Today we've launched a new feature on our campaign site that we're calling "Ask Bill." I love answering questions, and I love talking directly to people, so that is exactly what "Ask Bill" will be -- direct questions, direct answers, directly to you.

Just direct answers to direct questions. Submit your "Ask Bill" question now.

I wish I could get to every living room in this country, shake every voter's hand, and talk about the issues that matter in the campaign. But I can't, so I'm doing the next best thing.

We're going to upend the status quo and skip the media middleman. Direct questions, direct answers. That is the strategy we've been using in living rooms and meeting rooms across the country -- and our rising poll numbers show it's working.

Want to know more about my experience negotiating with the world's toughest dictators? You won't get that answer on the CNN debate -- but you will from "Ask Bill." Want to know my favorite flavor of ice cream? I'll take that question too. ¿Quiere saber cómo aumentaré el sueldo de maestros? Pregúnteme ahora- en inglés o en español- y contestaré en cualquiera.

Have a question for me? Ask it -- submit your "Ask Bill" question on the website now.

I want to let everyone know exactly where I stand and what I will do as President.

You just have to ask.

Bill Richardson

PS: Our position of bringing home ALL of our troops from Iraq keeps gaining ground. Today in the Financial Times, President Clinton's former national security adviser agreed with my long-standing assessment that leaving a large force of residual troops in Iraq will severely undermine our ability to use diplomacy to bring regional stability to the Middle East. Soon everyone will be with us.

Governor Richardson on CNN/YouTube Debate

2007-07-25T10:17:00.000-07:00

Not likely to be making friends with Chris Matthews and Wolf Blitzer.

Heroes

2007-07-24T10:57:00.001-07:00

This new ad from Governor Richardson will air in Iowa and New Hampshire, and focuses on the health and welfare of American soldiers.

Candidates

2007-07-23T23:21:00.001-07:00

Richardson Officially A Frontrunner

2007-07-23T11:29:00.000-07:00

According to Lynn Sweet, Chicago Sun Times Washington Bureau Chief, Governor Richardson is a frontrunner.

It's by design, not coincidence, that the four front-running Democrats in the race for the White House will be standing together at the debate Monday night in Charleston, S.C., with the other four rivals at the ends, where they will get the least camera time.

[...]

As they did at the June 3 debate in Manchester, N.H., Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton and Sen. Barack Obama will have the center podiums, flanked by former Sen. John Edwards and New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson. [emphasis mine]

That Bill Richardson is a frontrunner isn't a surprise to any of his supporters, but it's nice to see the national media come to that realization.

Daily Kos Monthly Straw Poll

2007-07-23T10:59:00.000-07:00

Daily Kos has its monthly straw poll up. Go vote for Bill Richardson. The polls will close this afternoon, so please vote as soon as possible.

CNN/YouTube Debate

2007-07-20T18:51:00.000-07:00

On Monday, tune in at 4pm for the revolutionary CNN/YouTube Democratic presidential debate, where all questions come from you, via video on YouTube.

Invite your friends, family and neighbors to join you for a debate watch party, and spread Bill Richardson's message to everyone you know.

New Richardson Ad Calls for All Troops Out of Iraq

2007-07-18T10:24:00.000-07:00

In his new ad, Governor Richardson takes to the airwaves to call for getting all American troops out of Iraq.

Go here to join Bill Richardson in calling on Congress to end the war now.

A First Look At One Richardson Cabinet Position

2007-07-17T14:48:00.000-07:00

At the annual meeting of the American Association for Justice (formerly the American Trial Lawyers Association) in Chicago this past Sunday, Governor Richardson discussed the role his Attorney General would play when he is elected President.

"I will appoint someone who I will direct and say: 'You will be an attorney general for the people. I don't want to even see you talking to the political arm of the White House staff,'" said Richardson, taking a swipe at President Bush's embattled Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, a former White House counsel.

Richardson Passes Edwards in Latest NH Poll

2007-07-17T14:47:00.001-07:00

According to the latest CNN/WMUR poll in New Hampshire, Bill Richardson has passed John Edwards among New Hampshirites who plan to vote in the Democratic presidential primary.

But former Sen. John Edwards, the party’s vice presidential nominee in 2004, slipped to a statistical tie with New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson in the latest poll, which was conducted between July 9 and Tuesday. Edwards had drawn 14 percent support in the previous poll, conducted in June, but came in at 9 percent in the new survey, while Richardson came in at 11 percent in both surveys. (See June’s Democatic poll)

While other candidates fly in for a rally or a fundraiser and then fly out, Governor Richardson has been spending days at a time in New Hampshire. The Governor is just wrapping up another trip to NH, and almost 2 weeks ago was the only candidate there for Independence Day festivities.

You can view the full poll results here.

Richardson Bolsters His "Man of the People" Credentials in Nevada

2007-07-13T22:21:00.000-07:00

In his visit yesterday to Northern Nevada, Governor Richardson took to the streets to shake as many hands as possible bolstering his credentials as a man of the people, the candidate who will out-work all of the others on the road to the Democratic nomination.

Chomping on barbecued pork in downtown Sparks, the last thing Henry Lee expected was to shake hands with a Democrat running for U.S. president.

The first words out of Lee's mouth when New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson interrupted his dinner to introduce himself: "Are you b.s.-ing me?"

"I don't think anyone else is going to come up to me and say they're running for president, so I think you've got my vote," Lee said.

In a return visit to Northern Nevada, Richardson was one of the first presidential candidates to venture onto the streets for some retail politics.

[...]

But more people than not recognized the governor and a few took the opportunity to grill him on his positions.

[...]

"He looks like he belongs in Northern Nevada, doesn't he," said Robert Presley of Carson City.

"He would get my vote, if I had to vote tomorrow, because he's up here," added Presley's wife, Mary. "I don't see anyone else up here. Where else are you going to get the voice of the common people?" [emphasis mine]

This is precisely how Governor Richardson has risen in the polls in Iowa and New Hampshire, by tirelessly shaking hands and going to meet voters anywhere they are.

Who would you vote for?

The candidate who flies in, holds a fundraiser for high-roller donors to get TV ads on the air and then flies out.

The candidate who spends a couple of days in town walking the streets and who comes to your door, your business or your place of work and asks you for your vote and listens to your thoughts on issues important to you?

As Emmett O'Connell posted in January, Governor Richardson has a history of regularly holding "open-door" sessions, meeting with any New Mexican who wants to meet with him, on any issue.

In a government of the People, for the People and by the People, isn't it time we elect a man of the People to lead our nation?

Bill Richardson for President in 2008.

Bill Richardson is Competing Everywhere

2007-07-12T20:01:00.000-07:00

It's true. The more Bill Richardson travels the country and meets people, and the more his brilliant TV ads play in places where he isn't well known, the more people like him.

And now, we get word from Strategic Vision polls (via TransWorldNews) that Bill Richardson is competing, meaning he's a player in the game everywhere.

According to the latest Strategic Vision polls of Democratic voters in Pennsylvania and Michigan, Bill Richardson received 8% and 7% respectively. "He is starting to become popular everywhere." says USAElectionPolls.com.

And those numbers will only continue to climb as Governor Richardson hits the campaign trail relentlessly over the next several months.

Richardson Impresses in "Job Interview" in Iowa City

2007-07-12T07:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Governor Richardson had an impressive showing in his job interview in Iowa City, speaking with over 200 of the people who will hire him next January.

Lending credence to a poll showing his support has jumped to double digits among likely Iowa caucus-goers, Bill Richardson attracted more than 200 people to a ‘‘job interview’’ in Iowa City. The Democratic governor of New Mexico made an imp r e s s i o n T u e s d a y with the folks who will be doing the ‘‘hiring’’ when Iowans caucus in January.

‘‘He’s the ‘been there, done that’ guy in the field’’ of Democratic candidates for the 2008 presidential nomination, Sally Peck of West Branch said of listening to Richardson. ‘‘He’s not just mouthing platitudes. He has the experience others don’t.’’

And what's been fueling Governor Richardson's rise in Iowa?

Leave no troops behind. And shaking all those hands in every corner of the state.

You Say You Want A Revolution?

2007-07-11T09:15:00.000-07:00

Governor Richardson has the most aggressive, best plan for energy independence but notes that "government can only go so far" and that like any revolution, an energy revolution is going to require the ideas of individuals.

So here is your chance to make a difference.

Governor Richardson is asking viewers of the video below to submit videoswith their ideas about energy conservation, the use of alternative fuels, and how to combat climate change.

Governor Richardson and his staff will then review the submissions and “whoever has the best or most original idea, I’ll come visit."

Watch the video. Submit your ideas. Be the change.

Richardson Participates in MoveOn.org Town Hall on Climate

2007-07-11T08:27:00.000-07:00

Governor Richardson recently participated in MoveOn.org's virtual town hall on climate issues, as he did with previous MoveOn town halls. All questions for the town hall, as with previous ones, were submitted by MoveOn members by video.

Go here to watch the video and vote for Bill Richardson.

Governor Richardson's plan to achieve energy independence and to control carbon emissions has received acclaim for being the strongest, most aggressive, best plan out there, by folks like Carl Pope of the Sierra Club.

[Note:When the video gets posted to YouTube I'll update the post and put the video up.]

July 4th Video from New Hampshire

2007-07-09T14:24:00.001-07:00

Rumor has it that Governor Richardson was almost kicked out of one of the July 4th parades because he was shaking too many hands (isn't that what candidates do?).

Check out this great video:

Richardson Campaigns in South Carolina, Makes More History

2007-07-08T13:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Governor Richardson was in South Carolina introducing himself to voters and working to raise money.

Here is the Greenville News wrap-up.

Democratic presidential candidate Bill Richardson asked party activists in Spartanburg and Greenville on Saturday to "keep your powder dry" and not make a hasty selection.

For Richardson -- and those hearing him -- it was a get-acquainted session.

The governor of New Mexico and former United Nations ambassador told about 100 people at a suburban Greenville hotel, "I want you to get to know me (and) let this election unfold."

Making his first purely campaign swing through the region since speaking at a state Democratic event in Greenville earlier this year, Richardson held a fundraiser Friday night in Columbia, then made appearances in Rock Hill, Spartanburg and Greenville before wrapping up at the Anderson County Democratic Party's summer rally.

Here is the Associated Press wrap-up (via The State), which details another first for a Presidential campaign. As you may recall, Bill Richardson was the first Presidential candidate to visit Marlow, NH last week.

Yesterday, Governor Richardson became the first candidate to ever visit the Catawba Indian Reservation.

Earlier Saturday, Richardson became the first presidential hopeful to campaign at the Catawba Indian Reservation near Rock Hill.

"I think it's wonderful that he called us and wanted to come down here," said interim Assistant Chief Claude Ayers. "First time anybody's ever done that."

In addition to visiting parts of rural Iowa that never receive attention from candidates, Governor Richardson is reaching out to voters who don't normally have any interaction with Presidential candidates, living up to his pledge to out-work the other candidates. Clearly, there's no hand Bill Richardson won't shake, no baby he won't kiss and no town too small for him to visit. And that's not a bad thing for Democracy.

Richardson Stands Alone In New Hampshire

2007-07-05T11:38:00.000-07:00

Taking the road less traveled (which has been known to make all the difference), Governor Richardson was the only Democratic candidate to campaign in New Hampshire yesterday.

In what may have been the most straightlaced portion of his three-day swing through New Hampshire, Bill Richardson spent an hour yesterday on a manicured patio in Bow fielding questions about why he wants to be president.

The house party was a nod to traditional politicking in an itinerary packed with the offbeat: Banging pots and pans with locals in Greenville to welcome Independence Day on Tuesday night, inviting voters to quiz him in mock job interviews and, this afternoon, becoming the first presidential candidate to ever visit Marlow, a town of 789 outside of Keene.
About 50 people came to Deborah deMoulpied's hillside home to hear Richardson, the Democratic governor of New Mexico. The format was traditional, but he kept with the overall spirit of his tour by cracking jokes, stressing that he was the only Democratic candidate to visit New Hampshire on July Fourth.

Here is the Boston Globe's wrap-up of the day's events.

"I loved most of what he said," said George deVito of Hopkinton. "The question is more than ideas, it's how you get these things done," he said, referencing a divided congress, among other roadblocks. "I don't know that he could answer that."

"The current 'my way or the highway' doesn't work," said Randy Choiniere of Concord. "Richardson has experience with actual diplomacy."
"Prior to his ads and the debates, I didn't consider him a serious candidate," said Sarah Brown of Bow. "Now I do."

An Independence Day Message From Governor Bill Richardson

2007-07-04T13:01:00.000-07:00

This morning, Governor Richardson posted an Independence Day message on his campaign blog. I encourage you to read the entire message, but here is an excerpt:

This is a day not for partisan politics, but for grateful remembrance and joyous celebration. A day of optimism and hope. A day to remember that we live in the greatest nation on earth, where our best days are still ahead of us. A day to celebrate our freedom, but also to remember that freedom comes at a cost.

Governor Richardson's Statement on President Bush's Commutation of Scooter Libby's Sentence

2007-07-03T09:05:00.000-07:00

Here is the statement Governor Richardson made yesterday, following the news that President Bush commuted the imprisonment portion of former Special Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff to the Vice-President, Scooter Libby:

"It's a sad day when the President commutes the sentence of a public official who deliberately and blatantly betrayed the public trust and obstructed an important federal investigation," said Governor Richardson. "This administration clearly believes its officials are above the law, from ignoring FISA laws when eavesdropping on US citizens, to the abuse of classified material, to ignoring the Geneva Conventions and international law with secret prisons and torturing prisoners.

There is a reason we have laws and why we expect our Presidents to obey them. Institutions have a collective wisdom greater than that of any one individual. The arrogance of this administration's disdain for the law and its belief it operates with impunity are breathtaking.

Will the President also commute the sentences of others who obstructed justice and lied to grand juries, or only those who act to protect President Bush and Vice President Cheney?"

Never mind that 60% of the American people oppose commutation of the prison sentence.

Not only is that breathtaking arrogance, as Governor Richardson said, but flagrant disregard for the rule of law.

NALEO Democratic Presidential Candidate Forum

2007-07-02T13:52:00.001-07:00

Over the weekend, Governor Richardson joined his fellow candidates in Orlando, FL for a forum at the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) conference. Here is the video:

Olympia/ South Sound for Richardson Roundup

2007-06-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

Please join us a 7pm on Tuesday, July 3 for our monthly Richardson Roundup. We'll be at the Starbucks on the corner of Cooper Point Rd. and Mud Bay Rd. (315 Cooper Point Rd. NW). Come meet other Bill Richardson supporters in our area and get an update on the campaign. Feel free to bring a friend or two.

Turn Up The Heat

2007-06-29T14:41:00.000-07:00

The second quarter of fundraising is coming to an end tomorrow and Governor Richardson needs your support. He's set a goal of raising $2 million this week and as of a few minutes ago was about $800,000 short of meeting that goal.

That's where you come in. If you've been waiting to see if this campaign is going to take off, now is the time to act. Governor Richardson is closing in on the front-runners in Iowa and New Hampshire, and needs your help to pass them. Right now is when your contribution can make the biggest difference.

No amount is too small to make a difference, so please give what you can. Keep the momentum going and give Bill Richardson the support he needs to make it to the White House.

Make your donation today.

Governor Richardson on HIV/AIDS

2007-06-28T20:45:00.000-07:00

At the Democratic presidential debate at Howard University tonight, candidates were asked about their plans to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS, particularly in the African-American community (since the debate focused on issues of importance to African-Americans). Bill Richardson was the only candidate who answered the question directly, and the only one to speak in favor of a needle exchange program.

Here are the facts on HIV/AIDS. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

When we look at HIV/AIDS by race and ethnicity, we see that African Americans have

More illness. Even though blacks (including African Americans) account for about 13% of the US population, they account for about half (49%) of the people who get HIV and AIDS.
Shorter survival times. Blacks with AIDS often don’t live as long as people of other races and ethnic groups with AIDS. This is due to the barriers mentioned above.
More deaths. For African Americans and other blacks, HIV/AIDS is a leading cause of death.

[...]

For black men, the most common ways of getting HIV are (in order)

having unprotected sex with another man who has HIV
sharing injection drug works (like needles or syringes) with someone who has HIV
having unprotected sex with a woman who has HIV

For black women, the most common ways of getting HIV are (in order)

having unprotected sex with a man who has HIV
sharing injection drug works (like needles or syringes) with someone who has HIV

HIV/AIDS is a disease that ravages the African-American community and Bill Richardson is the best candidate to help fight the war against the disease. Here is what Bill Richardson has done as Governor of New Mexico:

• Created the Billy Griego HIV and AIDS Act, which was designed to ensure that consumers are the focus of the funding and services provided in all the state's HIV and AIDS cases.

• Created the state's first HIV and AIDS Policy Commission charged with reviewing and making recommendations on state HIV and AIDS policies. The commission also studies and makes recommendations on all factors affecting the availability, quality and accessibility of health services for persons with HIV and AIDS.

Bill Richardson believes we can successfully fight the AIDS epidemic. As President, Bill Richardson's plan includes having his Vice-President serve as chair of the HIV/AIDS Commission.

Bill Richardson knows that we need to do everything possible to stop the spread of HIV not only here in America but also around the world, especially in Africa. I'm pretty sure he called it a moral imperative during the debate tonight.

Bill Richardson's plan for HIV/AIDS includes:

o Educating people in Africa and elsewhere on how to avoid contracting HIV/AIDS.
o Making condoms and clean needles available to those who might otherwise contract the disease.
o Ensuring that everybody in the world who is HIV positive has all the medication they need. Bill Richardson believes public-private partnerships should be formed to reduce costs and enhance access to AIDS medicine and treatment.

Richardson Statement on Immigration Reform Bill Failure

2007-06-28T20:23:00.000-07:00

Governor Richardson has issued the following statement on the U.S. Senate's failure to move forward with comprehensive immigration reform:

"I am deeply disappointed. You can't solve a problem by ignoring it. We have got to find a way to bridge the divide and bring people together to address the critical problems facing our nation -- immigration, energy, healthcare, education.

"This is the price America pays for divisive leadership. Congress should continue to work on passing immigration reform."

Bill Richardson is the only candidate, Democrat or Republican, who deals with immigration issues on a daily basis. He's a Governor of a border state and he's lived in Mexico, so he understands the issue from all angles.

Go hear to read Bill Richardson's immigration plan.

Democratic Presidential Debate Tomorrow Night

2007-06-27T15:52:00.001-07:00

Tune in to PBS tomorrow night when Tavis Smiley hosts Governor Richardson and the other Democratic candidates for President in a debate from Howard University in Washington, D.C. I'm told that it will air at 8pm locally.

Why Richardson is Gaining in Iowa

2007-06-27T14:29:00.001-07:00

If there was any doubt why Bill Richardson is gaining in Iowa, this should make it all clear.

Republican polling firm, Strategic Vision, has just released a poll of likely Iowa caucus voters. And here's the question that shows why Governor Richardson is gaining on the other candidates in Iowa.

6. Do you favor a withdrawal of all United States military from Iraq within the next six months? (Democrats Only)
Yes 83%
No 6%
Undecided 11%

The question might have been phrased, "Do you support Bill Richardson's plan for ending the war in Iraq?" because getting our troops out within the next 6 months is exactly what Governor Richardson is calling for, and he's the only candidate pushing that position. And apparently 83% of likely Democratic caucus-goers in Iowa like that position.

His position on the war in Iraq is a key reason, Governor Richardson has moved up to third in Iowa.

h/t to MyDD.

Daily Kos June Straw Poll

2007-06-27T14:11:00.001-07:00

Daily Kos has its June Straw Poll up. Go vote for Bill Richardson now.

Bill Richardson at Take Back America

2007-06-27T13:28:00.001-07:00

In case you missed it last week, here is the video of Governor Richardson's speech at Take Back America. Listen to the rousing cheers and applause as Richardson details his plan to get our troops out of Iraq now.

News Flash: Justice Byron "Whizzer" White Is Still Dead

2007-06-22T20:00:00.000-07:00

In the first Democratic presidential debate in South Carolina, Governor Richardson, reacting to a rapid fire lightning-round type question initially named Justice Byron "Whizzer" White as his ideal Supreme Court Justice. A few seconds later he mentioned Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Never mind the fact that Presidents get more than 5 seconds (and it's not all nationally televised) to make their decisions without being cutoff by a moderator.

Howls went up in the blogosphere that Governor Richardson is anti-choice (despite the fact that he consistently gets high ratings from groups like NARAL and Planned Parenthood).

Memo to the Kossacks, especially those supporting Edwards and Obama (and with all due respect to the family of the deceased) Justice Byron "Whizzer" White is still dead. Stop beating the horse.

From South Carolina's News Channel 7 (via the Associated Press):

Democrat Bill Richardson said Friday that if elected president, he would
ask potential Supreme Court nominees about their view on abortion and reject
those who say Roe v. Wade should be overturned.

Presidents typically say they don't ask potential justices about their
views on specific cases, but Richardson said Friday that he would make an
exception for the landmark 1973 case, which legalized abortion.

"I know I am going to upset some people, but this is what I would ask
them," said Richardson. "I would say, 'Do you believe that Roe v. Wade is
settled law?' If they say yes, they have a good chance of being picked. If they
say no I will not pick them."

Dead. End of story.

Bill Richardson at Take Back America

2007-06-19T20:47:00.001-07:00

Here is the video from Governor Richardson's speech at Take Back America today in Washington, D.C. Governor Richardson used the speech to draw strong distinction between himself and the other Democratic candidates on the issue of Iraq. Bottom line: Bill Richardson wants Congress to deauthorize the war now and bring all troops home within 6 months, while the others appear content to wait until some date in the fall and bring some of the troops home sometime in the spring.

Watch the video.

Richardson Blasts Opponents on Iraq

2007-06-19T07:43:00.001-07:00

Today, Governor Richardson called out his Senate colleagues who could be doing more to end the war in Iraq.

"With all due respect to my Democratic colleagues, Senators Clinton, Obama, Dodd and Biden all voted for timeline legislation that had deliberate loopholes," Richardson said in prepared remarks. "Those loopholes allow this president, or any president, to leave an undetermined number of troops in Iraq indefinitely. And this is the same legislation that former Senator Edwards says we should send back to President Bush over and over again until he signs it."

Every day, American soldiers continue to be targets of sectarian violence in Iraq, and the Senators continue to talk timelines that aren't bringing troops home now. And one former Senator wants to play a game with the President that is reminiscent of the old Bugs Bunny-Yosemite Sam argument, where one says "Oh no I'm not" and the other says "Oh yes you are", until both get more angry than ever at the other, but nothing changes.

Their way hasn't worked and it's time for something new.

Stand with Bill Richardson and demand that Congress deauthorize the war now and start bringing our troops home.

Congratulations to (the other) Washington for Richardson

2007-06-18T22:16:00.000-07:00

As some of you may recall, I made a bet with my friend Mike Kruger at D.C. for Richardson. Mike and I made a friendly wager just over 10 days ago. I bet Mike that by June 15, Washington state for Richardson would be a larger group than D.C. for Richardson. Mike, wanting to show that D.C. deserved statehood as much as Washington, issued the challenge, and we bet $51.43, with the loser paying the Richardson campaign. 51 is representative of D.C. becoming the 51st state, and 43 signifies Washington being the 43rd state.

The bill has now come due. Congratulations to D.C. for Richardson, which as of tonight stands at 83 members to Washington state for Richardson at 67 members. I'll be contributing $51.43 to the Richardson campaign, through the D.C. for Richardson group, so they get credit for the fundraising.

Score round one to D.C., but e're not done yet with the "other Washington".

Deauthorize the War. Now.

2007-06-18T15:03:00.000-07:00

Here's the video of Governor Richardson from CNN's Late Edition with Wolf Blitzer on why Congress should deauthorize the war in Iraq and leave no residual troops.

If you haven't yet signed the petition, click on the green button over on the right sidebar and join Bill Richardson in calling for Congress to deauthorize the war now.

No waiting until September or some date in the future that is politically convenient for some would-be Presidential candidates. No grandstanding and no games. Deauthorize the war now and bring our troops home. The American people demand it.

The Rationale for Deauthorization

2007-06-14T15:52:00.000-07:00

Last Friday over at MyDD, Joaquin Guerra, Internet Outreach Director at Richardson for President provided the campaign's prespective on why deauthorization of the Iraq war will work.

There are many points of constitutional law that are unsettled or debatable, including in the area of war powers, but one thing is certainly clear: The Constitution vests the sole power to declare war in the Congress. Period.

This means - and the Supreme Court has held - that this sole power to declare war also vests Congress with the sole power to circumscribe the war that can be fought. And, while a minority of scholars may dispute it, most agree that this also means that Congress has the sole power to declare a war over.

None of this depends upon the War Powers Act, or even the Iraq war resolution enacted pursuant to it. Congress's power to declare - and to "un-declare" - war derives entirely from Article I of the Constitution, and is plenary. Congress can declare the US at war, can delimit the extent of the war and the means to be utilized in its pursuit, and can declare it over, all through solely congressional action - presidential veto is not involved at all. The President cannot "veto" a war resolution by Congress, he cannot veto the conditions Congress places on the war's conduct, and he cannot veto a congressional declaration ending the war.

The enactment process for legislation spelled out in the Constitution, involving presidential veto, is not implicated in such instances at all: This does not involve enacting legislation, but declaring and un declaring war, which is a separate area of congressional power entrusted solely to Congress by a separate constitutional clause.

The War Powers Act was enacted in the wake of the Vietnam War as a way to codify a more detailed understanding of the war powers spelled out in the Constitution. As is the case in many areas of government, we do not have a complete "separation of powers," but an intermixing.

In the area of war, while Congress has the sole power to declare hostilities on or off, the branches jointly share authority for treaty-making - either to end hostilities or to avert them before they even start - and the Constitution makes the President commander-in-chief of the armed forces. This latter fact has led some to argue that presidents have an independent war-making authority of their own. And, clearly, a president can order American arms into action as needed, without prior consultation with Congress, to repel an attack on the United States, its citizens, or its vital interests.

Where the line falls between actions a president must take to defend the country or its troops without congressional sanction, and Congress's clear constitutional authority to commit the nation to war or not, has been a subject of intense, on-going, and unsettled debate.

The War Powers Act attempts to fill that void, by laying out a process whereby the president can act to defend the country where there is no time for congressional consultation or action, but otherwise requiring the president to gain congressional assent to military action before-the-fact where possible or within a reasonable time after-the-fact, where necessary. But nothing in the Act - whether or not it is constitutional - can disturb the underlying constitutional commitment to Congress of the sole authority to take the nation into or out of a war.

In the case of Iraq, the President sought and obtained a congressional authorization under the War Powers Act. That unilateral authorization by Congress can be just as unilaterally recalled by the Congress and the war de-authorized. In addition, Congress defined the terms of the president's authorization to make war in the Iraq war resolution and, if the president has exceeded his authority in the conduct of that war, then he cannot legally maintain his actions - no further congressional action is needed to make that so. A de-authorization vote, then, would essentially constitute a statement that, in Congress's view, the existing war in Iraq was not authorized under the original 2002 resolution, based upon the President's claim that Saddam was a threat and that he possessed WMD. That war, and its lawful authorization, already ended with the removal of Saddam and the ascertainment that Iraq had no WMD. In short, the current war is a war without legal warrant and if Congress so declares the President cannot legally continue to conduct it. This, again, does not constitute legislation subject to presidential veto but flows directly from Congress's powers under both the War Powers Act and the Constitution. Finally, regardless of the WPA and the 2002 Iraq war resolution, Congress can, under its sole constitutional authority over war, declare the Iraq war to be over. As stated above, the President has no power to veto such a declaration, and no law other than the Constitution itself is required to be enacted to give the declaration effect - so, the presidential veto power over legislation simply is not implicated at all here.

Nonetheless, it is important to understand that de-authorization of the Iraq war would almost certainly produce a legal and constitutional stand-off between the President and the Congress, which ultimately would have to be decided by the courts. I have no doubt that the courts would uphold the Framer's original intent in vesting Congress with the sole authority to declare and limit the nation's war-making. But regardless of the legal arguments the Bush Administration may try to mount in response, a de-authorization vote undoubtedly would greatly increase the pressure on President Bush to end the war, and that alone is a step forward.

The point here, is that we have to try everything to end the war. Bill Richardson has more foreign policy and diplomatic experience than any of the other candidates, and he alone is calling for deauthorization of the war before Congress recesses for the summer.

Join Bill Richardson and call on Congress to deauthorize the war and bring our troops home.

Richardson Picks Up Key Congressional Endorsements

2007-06-14T15:40:00.000-07:00

Governor Richardson announced today that he's received the endorsement of four Congressmen.

Today, Governor Bill Richardson announced the endorsements of Congressman Mike Doyle (Pennsylvania), Congressman Solomon Ortiz (Texas), Congressman Gene Green (Texas), and Congressman Silvestre Reyes (Texas).

"I am privileged to have the support of such honorable men," said Governor Bill Richardson. "These are outstanding Congressmen who have provided leadership in Congress, and dedicated their careers to serving their constituents and improving our country."

Governor Richardson previously earned the support of Senator Jeff Bingaman (NM), Congressman Ed Pastor (AZ), and Congressman Tom Udall (NM).

Bill Richardson Authors New Book on Environmental/Energy Issues

2007-06-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

If This Be Treason has just posted the details of a new book authored by Governor Bill Richardson which is to be released in November 2007. The book, entitled Leading By Example: How We Can Inspire an Energy and Security Revolution will detail Governor Richardson's plan to end American dependence on foreign oil and to adopt sensible energy policies.

Richardson decided to write the book when he realized that the various solutions on the table from politicians, diplomats, pundits, or industry leaders were not bold enough or comprehensive enough to truly help American reach its goals in time. In LEADING BY EXAMPLE, Richardson argues that we have known about our country’s energy problems for 35 years, but since 1985 our consumption has climbed, fuel efficiency has stagnated, and our crippling dependence on foreign oil is as big as it has ever been. So Richardson is issuing a call to action, for Congress, the energy industry, and the public. He is calling for a new American revolution - an energy and climate revolution.

Pre-order your copy today.

MyDD June Straw Poll

2007-06-13T11:16:00.001-07:00

MyDD's June Straw poll is now up. Go vote for Bill Richardson. A note of caution though: do not just vote for Bill Richardson or your vote won't count. According to the guys at MyDD, votes for 3 or less candidates are counted as "stuffed" votes and are deleted from the poll. So make sure your vote counts, vote for Bill Richardson first and at least 2 other candidates (unsure is an acceptable alternative to a candidate).

Update: The polls have now closed and the results have been posted.

While John Edwards experience a significant (double digit) drop which is consistent with his downward movement in recent national polls, Governor Richardson came in third at 12.6%, increasing his support by about 2% from last month.

Walk A Day In Mark Fitzgerald's Shoes

2007-06-11T21:03:00.000-07:00

That's exactly what Governor Richardson did last Friday. As part of SEIU's "Walk A Day In My Shoes" program, presidential candidates are invited to spend a day working alongside SEIU members.

Here's the video of Governor Richardson walking a day in Mark Fitzgerald's shoes. Mark is a member of SEIU Local 1107 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Part 3 of the "Job Interview" Ads

2007-06-11T19:02:00.000-07:00

Bill Richardson is back with a new ad, part 3 in the series of "job interview" ads. In this one, the interviewer learns how Governor Richardson made New Mexico the Clean Energy state.

CNN/WMUR New Hampshire Poll: Richardson In Dead Heat with Edwards

2007-06-11T14:34:00.000-07:00

CNN and WMUR released a new poll in New Hampshire today, showing that Governor Richardson is in a dead heat with John Edwards, who has been losing support since polls started showing Richardson at 10% last month.

The poll was a survey of 309 New Hampshire voters who say they plan to vote in the Democratic primary. The margin of error is plus or minus 6 percentage points.

Here are the top 5, according to the poll:

Clinton 36%
Obama 22%
Edwards 12%
Gore 12%
Richardson 10%

Bill Richardson to Appear on Heading Left's Blog Talk Radio

2007-06-09T09:27:00.000-07:00

This Monday, Governor Richardson will be a guest on Heading Left's Blog Talk Radio.

This Monday (June 11) at 2 PM Eastern, Nate Wilcox and James Boyce will be talking to New Mexico Governor and 2008 presidential candidate Bill Richardson on Heading Left’s Blog Talk Radio show.

As always, you can call in to the show live at (646) 652-4803.

So tune in on Monday at 2PM Eastern for Heading Left on Blog Talk Radio.

So call in to the show and give Bill Richardson your support.

El Gobernador Bill Richardson Participará en el Historico Primer Debate de Candidatos Presidenciales en Español de Univision

2007-06-07T19:01:00.000-07:00

Por los que hablan español:

El Gobernador Bill Richardson es el primero en aceptar la invitación

SANTA FE, NM- El Gobernador de Nuevo Mexico Bill Richardson hoy formalmente aceptó una invitación para estar presente en el primer debate Presidencial Democrata de la historia conducido enteramente en Español. El Gobernador Richarson fue el primer canidato en acordar particpar en el debate, el cual será realizado en Miami, Florida el Domingo 9 de Septiembre, y está siendo auspiciado por Comunicaciones Univisión y la Universidad de Miami.

“Esta es una oportunidad extraordinara para comunicarse con la comunidad Latina la cual jugará un rol crucial al escoger al próximo Presidente,” afirmó el Gobernador Richardson. “Los Latinos son el segmento de mayor crecimiento de nuestra población y esta es una oportunidad única para que todos los candidates escuchen y hablen sobre las preocupaciones y prioridades de este importante segmento electoral.”

Nacido en Pasadena, California, El Gobernador Richarson pasó su infancia en la Ciudad de Mexico y es bilingüe.

“Yo reto a mis compañeros candidatos Demócratas a participar en este debate y de no encontrar razones para evitarlo-la diversidad es un tema fundamental Demócrata,” agregó el Gobernador. “Debemos de estar comprometidos para alcanzar una amplia gama de estadounidenses posible y la comunidad Latina es crucial para ganar la nominación y la Presidencia en el 2008.”

De-Authorize the War Now

2007-06-07T14:37:00.001-07:00

According to iCasualties.org, as of today 3504 American soldiers have lost their lives in the war in Iraq.

A look at where the Democrats running for President stand on ending the Iraq war shows that only Bill Richardson has a plan to end the war now and get all American troops out of Iraq.

Hillary Clinton wants to wait until October to end the war and leave residual troops.

John Edwards wants the troops out in 12 to 18 months but would leave some residual troops in Iraq to guard the American embassy, making them a continued target of sectarian violence.

Barack Obama wants a phased re-deployment to have combat troops out of Iraq by March 31, 2008, but would leave residual troops to engage in counterterrorism and to train Iraqi forces (again, a target for sectarian violence).

In other words, the media-anointed frontrunners all want to wait to get troops out of Iraq and then leave troops in Iraq.

So what does Bill Richardson's plan do?

Specifically, Governor Richardson is calling on Congress to deauthorize the war in Iraq before it recesses on June 30. That's 23 days from now. If Congress passes a resolution to deauthorize the war, President Bush loses all authority to continue his warmongering. Deauthorization can't be vetoed, and the President would legally be required to bring our troops home.

Article I of the Constitution gives Congress the authority to declare war. The War Powers Act clearly states that a President may not continue a war without Congressional authorization. It's time for Congress to use its legal authority to place checks and balances on the President. The American people demand it.

In addition to deauthorization, Governor Richardson is the only viable candidate who will pull all of the troops out of Iraq this year, leaving no residual troops. Bill Richardson wants our troops out of Iraq now, not sometime in the fall or whenever is convenient for the Bush Administration or the other Democratic candidates.

Bill Richardson's plan is the most comprehensive of all of the Democratic candidates. So join Bill Richardson and let's end this war today.

Richardson to Participate in Historic Spanish Language Debate

2007-06-06T15:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Markos posted that Univision has scheduled two historic Spanish language debates in September, one for Democratic presidential candidates and one for the Republicans, in Miami on September 9. This is the first time an all Spanish debate will be held for presidential candidates.

Today, Governor Richardson accepted Univision's invitation to participate in the debate.

"This is an extraordinary opportunity to reach the Latino community which will play a pivotal role in choosing the next President," said Governor Richardson. "Latinos are the fastest growing segment of our population and this is a unique chance for all of the candidates to hear and address the concerns and priorities of this important constituency."

[...]

"I challenge my fellow Democratic candidates to participate in this debate and not to find reasons to avoid it- diversity is a fundamental Democratic issue," added the Governor. "We should be committed to reaching the broadest range of Americans possible, and the Latino community is critical to winning the nomination and the Presidency in 2008."

This debate should be home court advantage for Governor Richardson, as the only other candidate fluent in Spanish is Senator Chris Dodd. I'm sure interpreters will be used for the other candidates, but Governor Richardson will be able to answer the questions seamlessly and effortlessly, and get his message out to Latinos across the country.

Can we have a debate in French too, so Governor Richardson can demonstrate his proficiency with that language?

Bill Richardson Wins the Debate

2007-06-06T10:10:00.000-07:00

According to WMUR's post-debate poll (they co-sponsored Sunday's Democratic debate with CNN), Bill Richardson is viewed as the winner of the debate.

Who do you think won the Democratic debate at St. Anselm College?

Choice Votes Percentage of 1495 Votes

Joe Biden 88 6%

Hillary Clinton 442 30%

Chris Dodd 69 5%

John Edwards 150 10%

Mike Gravel 62 4%

Dennis Kucinich 58 4%

Barack Obama 153 10%

Bill Richardson 473 32%

Richardson Receives Post-Debate Polling Surge

2007-06-05T15:43:00.000-07:00

Fresh off of a good showing in Sunday's Democratic debate, Governor Richardson is now getting a surge in the latest WBZ/Franklin Pierce College poll.

The poll was conducted yesterday among 424 likely Democratic primary voters in New Hampshire, with a margin of error of 4.8%.

A new poll of likely Democratic primary voters in New Hampshire shows Hillary Clinton surging far ahead of the field, and Bill Richardson also picking up support.

[...]

Al Gore -- who is not even in the race -- and Richardson both had 8 percent. That was a gain of 5 percentage points for the New Mexico governor, while Gore's support declined by two points.

Those New Hampshire voters who responded favorably to Governor Richardson in the poll, see the same kind of thing that this guy did: an experienced leader with proven results.

Governor Richardson on Faith

2007-06-04T23:33:00.000-07:00

Today, CNN hosted a special hour long town hall style meeting where the Big 3 (John Edwards, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton) got to answer questions about their faith before a live audience. Don't ask me why the other candidates weren't a part of the televised event (it may have been scheduling conflicts, or it may have been a made-for-TV event designed to highlighted the alleged frontrunners).

However, later on several of the other Democratic candidates, including Governor Richardson appeared on Paula Zahn Now to discuss their faith.

Here's some of what Governor Richardson had to say:

From my grandmother and my Catholic faith, I believe I have gotten my sense of social justice, which basically is protecting those that are poor, that have been left behind. And I'm inspired policy- wise whenever I am pressed to push legislation like increasing the minimum wage, doing something about child poverty, insuring kids under 5.

I think that's part of my values. That's part of my faith. I also believe, Paula, protecting this planet and -- and finding ways to -- to make sure that we don't end up in -- in a sea of greenhouse gas emissions that are going to destroy God's creation is also part of a value that I have.

This is the part of Christianity you never hear from the right-wing evangelist types. These wingers tend to forget the part about standing up for those who have no voice: the poor and the children. You won't find them talking about being good stewards of God's green earth. Instead many of them focus on perverting religion to suit their political views.

A Friendly Wager - Washington vs. The Other Washington

2007-06-04T21:35:00.000-07:00

My friend Mike Kruger of D.C. for Richardson and I have a friendly wager going. By June 15, we're working to add as many Bill Richardson supporters to our groups at the Richardson for President website as we can. The group that is largest on June 15 wins. If we win and I know we will, D.C. for Richardson will donate $51.43 to the Bill Richardson for President campaign (51 signifying statehood for D.C. and 43 for Washington). If the other Washington wins, we donate $51.43 to the campaign.

So I need your help. If you read this blog and you don't have a profile at Richardson for President go create one and join our Washington State for Richardson group. Go out and invite all of your friends in Washington to sign up , fill out a profile and join our group. By doing this we grow our group, add supporters for Bill Richardson and have a little fun at the expense of the other Washington.

Anderson Cooper Interviews Governor Richardson After The Debate

2007-06-04T15:19:00.000-07:00

Here is the video:

Obama Loses A Supporter to Bill Richardson

2007-06-03T22:41:00.000-07:00

After his performance in the debate in New Hampshire this evening, Governor Richardson picked up at least one vote (and I suspect more than one), from a guy who used to support Barack Obama.

Check out the video:

One voter at a time, Bill Richardson is catching up to the rock stars. And it won't be long until he catches and surpasses them.

Letter to the Editor

2007-06-03T20:41:00.001-07:00

I just submitted this letter to the editor to The Olympian, my hometown newspaper. I encourage all of you to write your local newspapers and let them know why you support Bill Richardson for President.

Dear Editor,

At a time when our nation cannot afford inexperienced leadership, I'm supporting Bill Richardson for President.

No candidate has the wealth of foreign policy experience that Bill Richardson possesses. As former U.N. Ambassador and as a Congressman, Bill Richardson has successfully negotiated with Iraq, North Korea, Sudan, Cuba and other rogue nations. Unlike the other candidates, Bill Richardson would have all American troops out of Iraq by the end of this year.

As former Secretary of Energy, Bill Richardson has a visionary "Apollo plan" to make our nation energy independent, and the experience to carry it out. He’s already made New Mexico the Clean Energy state.

As Governor, Bill Richardson has also balanced budgets, increased economic development and created job opportunities, while lowering the tax burden on businesses. He has improved New Mexico’s schools, raised teacher pay and increased the minimum wage. In addition, he gave working families a tax cut, returning $52 million to low and middle income families.

While other candidates may plan to do these things, Bill Richardson has already been leading and improving the lives of working families.

As President, Bill Richardson will do this and much more.
Ken Camp
Tumwater, WA

Debate Open Thread

2007-06-03T20:07:00.001-07:00

I was participating in a live chat at Richardson for President, during the debate and wasn't able to live blog my impressions.

So here are some brief thoughts: Overall I think Hillary Clinton and Bill Richardson did the best. Governor Richardson was able to show how he has been a leader on some of the major policy issues, and demonstrated his foreign policy and diplomatic credentials. He also set himself apart in his Iraq policy, because he is calling for the war to be de-authorized now and for all American troops to be out of Iraq this calendar year.

The losers of the debate was clearly Mike Gravel, and not because of his positions on issues, but because he was mostly ignored by CNN's Wolf Blitzer. During the first hour, Wolf pretty much ignored anyone not named Edwards, Obama or Clinton. And though the placement on stage of the candidates was a random draw, did anyone else find it convenient that the alleged front-runners were all placed next to each other at the center of the stage for a perfect made-for-TV moment?

So now that the debate is over, what did you think?

Democratic Presidential Debate Today

2007-06-03T10:55:00.000-07:00

Tune in at 4pm as the Democratic presidential candidates participate in another debate, sponsored by CNN, WMUR, New Hampshire Union Leader. The debate will be televised live at 4pm on CNN.

Or you can find a Richardson debate watch party near you, or sign up and participate in the live chat at Richardson for President.

More Details on the Richardson Ad Competition

2007-05-31T17:15:00.001-07:00

Nevada Up North has posted additional details on the Bill Richardson for President ad competition it is hosting.

If you've got video skills, why not try your hand at creating an ad for Governor Richardson? Entry must be received by July 1.

When a winner is selected we will run the video here at Washington for Richardson.

Governor Richardson Speaks to DFA on Energy

2007-05-31T16:20:00.000-07:00

Democracy for America sent out a video response to its members today from Governor Bill Richardson regarding his energy plan. Here is the video.

Host or Attend A Bill Richardson Debate Watch Party This Sunday

2007-05-31T08:46:00.000-07:00

This Sunday in New Hampshire, Governor Richardson will be participating in the second Democratic debate. The debate will be televised by CNN at 7pm Eastern.

You can help by hosting a debate watch party for your fellow Bill Richardson supporters or attending one in your local area. Attending or hosting a debate watch party gives you an opportunity to meet supporters in your area, learn more about the issues, and think of new ways to mobilize support for Governor Richardson in your town.

In addition, the campaign is hosting an online debate watch party, where you'll be able to chat with other supporters and possibly some of the campaign staff online as the debate is happening. I will be one of the moderators of the online debate party.

Campaign Schedule May 29-June 3

2007-05-29T09:36:00.001-07:00

From Bill Richardson for President:

Tuesday, May 29 – Eastern Time

WHEN: Afternoon and evening
WHAT: Fundraising
WHERE: Boca Raton, FL

Wednesday, May 30 – Eastern Time

WHEN: Afternoon
WHAT: Fundraising
WHERE: Condado, Puerto Rico

WHEN: Evening
WHAT: Fundraising
WHERE: St. Thomas, Virgin Islands

Thursday, May 31 – Mountain Time

WHEN: Evening
WHAT: Fundraising
WHERE: Santa Fe, NM

Friday, June 1 – Mountain Time

WHEN: Afternoon and evening
WHAT: Fundraising
WHERE: Gallup & Albuquerque, NM

Saturday, June 2 - Eastern Time

WHEN: 10:30 am
WHAT: New Hampshire Democratic Convention
WHERE: Rundlett Middle School, Concord, NH

WHEN: 5:30 pm
WHAT: Iowa Hall of Fame Dinner
WHERE: Crowne Plaza, Five Seasons Hotel, 350 1st Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids, IA

Sunday, June 3 - Eastern Time

WHEN: 7:00 pm
WHAT: CNN, WMUR and the Union Leader 2008 Democratic Presidential Debate
WHERE: St. Anselm College, Manchester, NH

Meet The Press Video

2007-05-27T23:13:00.001-07:00

Here's the video for Governor Richardson's appearance on Meet the Press (click on NBC Meet The Press Netcast):

Richardson's Seattle Trip Wrap-up Part II

2007-05-27T09:18:00.000-07:00

Thursday, Governor Richardson was in Seattle for some political meetings and a fundraiser. My day started off by getting to the Westin Hotel at 11:00am. I got there early to meet Carlos Trujillo, the Governor's Western States Political Director. Once Carlos arrived, we dropped his bags off and went to lunch at the Icon Grill (across the street from the hotel).

While Carlos and I were eating lunch, Governor Richardson was in Redmond talking to several hundred Microsoft employees. Those of us involved in the trip planning had been trying to get the Governor some time with the people involved in the Microsoft PAC. Governor Richardson said later that when he spoke at Microsoft, he mentioned his recent trip to the Bay Area where he spoke to Google employees. When that was met with a less than enthusiastic response, Governor Richardson remarked that he's a 10% and needs all the help he can get.

I got feedback on the Microsoft speech from 2 sources: a Microsoft employee and an interested observer I know from my day job. The employee was already a Richardson supporter, and the observer raved about how down to earth and unpretentious Governor Richardson is. Here are some of those comments:

"No pretense...self-deprecating..delivered with a confidence. Strong at presenting his qualification..........Had solid answers to immigration, the war, environment, etc...he took extra questions..and took extra time to shake hands at the end..........very accessible.....is well-qualified for effective leadership."

The next meeting was one I set up, with Latino business, civic and political leaders. Thanks to Luis Moscoso, Tomás Villanueva and Tania Maria Rosario for their assistance in helping me identify the appropriate people to invite to the meeting. I felt this meeting was a great success, as we had standing room only (more people came than we planned for) with people coming out of the door. Governor Richardson made some comments about the campaign and his thoughts on the immigration bill in Congress and then took questions. Most of the questions focused on the immigration issue and how to support Latino small business and entrepreneurs. I have to confess I was out in the hallway due to the lack of space, so I didn't hear everything.

Governor Richardson's next meeting was with state Democratic Party leaders in the Cascade Ballroom. I was not in the room because I was setting up for another meeting, but I'm told it went well and that he emphatically stated his position that we have to get our troops out of Iraq by the end of 2007. Look at this post for the links to the articles written by David Postman and Neil Modie, since they were in the room for the speech.

Governor Richardson's next meeting was an impromptu one, with leaders of the LGBT community. I say impromptu because it was not on Governor Richardson's calendar, but he took the time to meet with the 20 people who had come to see him. Again, I wasn't in the room, but spoke to one person afterwards who said that Governor Richardson had been supportive on all of the issues that were discussed with the exception of gay marriage.

After a 30 minute wait for the impromptu LGBT meeting to end, Governor Richardson met with a handful of bloggers, including me. There we discussed everything frommedial marijuana and the drug war, to energy, transportation, immigration, habeas corpus, health care and the Iraq war. David Goldstein has posted his thoughts on the meeting, and thehim has posted a summary as well. Dan Kirkdorffer also has a comprehensive summary of the meeting posted.

It was Governor Richardson's second time meeting with most of the bloggers who came. We also met with him last July when he was in town on Democratic Governor's Association business.

Finally, Governor Richardson met with labor leaders in tow separate meetings. The first meeting was with labor leaders affiliated with AFL-CIO. The second meeting was with the SEIU locals. For those unfamiliar with union politics, last year SEIU split with AFL-CIO to join some other unions in forming the Change to Win coalition. I was also not in the room for these meetings so I am not privy to what was said.

To end the day, we all went to a fundraiser in Mercer Island at the home of Judy and Joe Shocken. If you're from Washington, you have an idea of what Mercer Island is like. If not, let me tell you it was a nice sunny day, about 75 degrees and we were at a very nice house on the shores of Lake Washington.

I got there early to help set up and make sure things were taken care of. I worked the reception table along with Dawn Bonker and Michael Martin. 10 people or so had shown up when Governor Richardson arrived at 7:03pm (the fundraiser started at 7pm). He even joked about it being 7:03, probably because all of his meetings earlier in the day had gone overtime, and he had been a few minutes late to each successive meeting.

During the course of the evening Governor Richardson entertained guests with his now famous story of meeting with Saddam Hussein and insulting him by showing him the bottom of his shoe (this is an insult in the Arab world, but in Bill Richardson's defense he was dragged out of his bed at 1am after a long trip to Iraq to go meet with Saddam).

I got to spend a couple of minutes with the Governor at the fundraiser and he thanked me for all of my work and told me he thought we'd had a good day. Having worked for elected officials for almost 10 years now, and having been around plenty of politicians and famous people, being thanked for my work by Bill Richardson was very gratifying. You could hear it in his voice and know that he really meant it.

However, I'm not going to take all of the credit for the thanks that was given, because I'm not the only one making things happen. Thanks also goes to Emmett O'Connell, my partner in crime, and thanks to all of you who are out there working on behalf of Bill Richardson. I can assure you he really appreciates it.

Yesterday's Iraq War vote - Where the Candidates Stand

2007-05-25T15:32:00.000-07:00

Governor Richardson issued this statement yesterday, regarding the vote on Iraq War funding.

"The best way to support our troops is to get them out of Iraq, and this bill will not move us any closer to that. The Democratic Congress is missing an opportunity. They should repeal the original resolution that gave the President the authority to take action against Iraq and replace it with one that requires the President to take all the troops out of Iraq by the end of the year. Congress has the authority to do that under Article One of the Constitution and under the War Powers Act and the President cannot veto it. Congress should not pass any appropriations beyond the date of de-authorization. By doing it that way, Congress would both fully fund our troops and get them out of Iraq as soon as possible." [emphasis mine]

Governor Richardson wants our troops out of Iraq now, as do the vast majority of the American people.

Senators Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama don't seem to be sure about their positions on the war. Here's what Paul Begala had to say on Anderson Cooper 360 last night about their no votes on the legislation:

You know, I think both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, neither of them covered themselves with glory here. This -- this bill was not unexpected. It was not a deal that would suddenly shock anybody.

And the fact that they could not decide until just -- just right before the vote, where they were going to be, I think, is going to upset a lot of their supporters. And maybe this gives new oxygen to some of the stronger, clearer anti-war candidates.

Indecisiveness on major issues is not a quality commonly listed when people are asked about what they like in a Presidential candidate. I think it's also cold political calculation by both Senators.

But perhaps Obama having James Crown, whose family holds a major stake in defense contractor General Dynamics, as his chief fundraiser in Illinois, has something to do with his problem deciding where he is on the war.

Mr. Crown, whose family’s investments include a major stake in the military contractor General Dynamics, said family members normally avoided taking sides in a primary, in part because it was not good for business. But with Mr. Obama, they made an exception, with 10 family members giving a total of $112,500.

Why bite the hand that feeds you?

And then there's John Edwards on the vote:

"Washington failed America today when Congress surrendered to the president's demand for another blank check that prolongs the war in Iraq. It is time for this war to end. "Congress should immediately use its funding power to cap troop levels in Iraq at 100,000, stop the ongoing surge, and force an immediate drawdown of 40-50,000 troops, followed by a complete withdrawal in about a year. "The American people's call for a new course in Iraq was not answered today, but Congress still has the power to end this war. Our security and democracy alike demand it." [emphasis mine]

John Edwards goes nowhere near as far as Bill Richardson. John Edwards wants to leave troops in Iraq for up to a year, allowing more of them to be targeted by militants. A new course isn't leaving troops in Iraq Senator Edwards. A new course is getting them out and leaving no residual forces inside Iraq.

Of all of the candidates, it's not surprising that the one with the most foreign policy experience, Bill Richardson, has the best plan for Iraq. Go read Governor Richardson's New Realism for Iraq and tell your friends.

Richardson's Seattle Trip Wrap-up Part I

2007-05-25T11:27:00.000-07:00

I haven't yet had time to put together my thoughts on Governor Richardson's trip to Seattle yesterday, but here is some other coverage:

David Postman of the Seattle Times, who covered Governor Richardson's speech to crowd of Washington State Democrats.

thehim at Blog Reload, on a meeting I set up for bloggers and Governor Richardson.

Neil Modie at the Seattle P-I, on Richardson's trip to Western Washington.

I'd also like to quickly add that it was good seeing some of you grassroots Richardson supporters yesterday (Andrew Lewis, Mike Kelly, Andrew Giron). I'm looking forward to working with you to promote Governor Richardson's campaign.

Light Posting

2007-05-24T07:17:00.001-07:00

I'll be in meetings this afternoon with Governor Richardson, but will post later today or tomorrow about the events of the day in Seattle, including a blogger Q&A that we're having. This will be Governor Richardson's second time meeting with most of these bloggers.

Campaign Schedule May 23-27

2007-05-22T20:33:00.000-07:00

From Richardson for President:

Wednesday, May 23 - Mountain Time

WHEN: Evening
WHAT: Fundraising
WHERE: Santa Fe, NM

Thursday, May 24 - Pacific Time

WHEN: Afternoon
WHAT: Fundraising
WHERE: Seattle, WA

WHEN: Evening
WHAT: Private campaign events
WHERE: Seattle, WA

Friday, May 25 - Mountain Time

WHEN: Evening
WHAT: Fundraising
WHERE: Albuquerque, NM

Saturday, May 26 - Eastern Time

NO PUBLIC CAMPAIGN EVENTS

Sunday, May 27 - Eastern Time

WHEN: 8:30 am - 10:15 am
WHAT: Appearance on NBC's "Meet the Press"
WHERE: Washington, DC

WHEN: Evening
WHAT: Fundraising
WHERE: Sonora, CA

Richardson Takes Campaign to The Situation Room

2007-05-22T16:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, after announcing his intention to seek the Democratic nomination for President in 2008, Governor Richardson appeared on CNN's The Situation Room. The transcript of the show can be found here.

On the show, Governor Richardson discussed the new Senate immigration reform bill, his campaign and how he can move to the front of the pack, and his thoughts on President Carter's comments on President Bush.

On how he's moving in the right direction and how he can become the Democratic nominee:

BLITZER: All right, the polls show that you're still at the second tier, although you must have been encouraged somewhat by this "Des Moines Register" poll that just came in. It's got you now at 10 percent; John Edwards with 29; Barack Obama, 23; Hillary Clinton, 21.

What do you need do, Governor to get yourself at the top tier of these candidates?

RICHARDSON: Well, I also saw a poll where I'm 10 percent in New Hampshire -- probably the two most important states. So I'm moving forward.

What I need to do is, one, get known around the country that I'm the candidate that is most prepared, with the most foreign policy background, the most energy background. I'm a governor. I've run a state. I've managed a bureaucracy of over 100,000 people as secretary of energy. And that I have a positive plan to bring this country together, both domestically and internationally.

It's, also, Wolf, outworking everybody. And you know that. I'm everywhere. I am going house to house in Iowa, in New Hampshire, Nevada, South Carolina. Now Florida wants to move up. I'll go to every house in Florida. I don't know how I can do that, because it's a big state.

This is the man who holds the Guinness handshake record, and who regularly, as Governor of New Mexico, holds public meetings where the people can line up and come chat with him about their issues.I have no doubt he'll work harder than the others.

So my challenge to all the Richardson supporters out there is this:

Are you prepared to work harder than the other campaign's supporters?

Each of us has special talents and skills we can lend to the campaign. Though we can't all give 24 hours a day to the campaign, anything we can give will help.So let's be a reflection of our leader and match his intensity and work ethic. If we all work our hardest and give everything we can, then Bill Richardson will be our next President.

Campaign Update

2007-05-22T15:46:00.000-07:00

Last night on the conference call with Governor Richardson he outlined some next steps for his campaign.

With the good news in recent polls in Iowa and New Hampshire, Governor Richardson said his campaign will be doing an extensive ad buy in both states, which will mean the "Job Interview" ad will soon be playing in both states.

Governor Richardson also said he'll be continuing his aggressive door-to-door grassroots campaigning in Iowa and New Hampshire, which people are responding to.

He'll also be on Meet The Press with Tim Russert this Sunday for the full hour, so tune in.

A Thank You From Bill Richardson

2007-05-22T08:31:00.000-07:00

Last night, I was fortunate to be on two conference calls with Governor Richardson, for grassroots/netroots leaders. On both calls Governor Richardson expressed his heartfelt thanks to all of you for the work that you're doing getting his message out and spreading the word about the campaign. One of the things he said that was very gracious, and that I want to share with you was:

"I love you all. This was just as much your day as it was mine. I wish you could be here with us."

Bill Richardson was not just dropping platitudes on these phone conferences. It was clear to anyone listening that he was caught up in the big day and genuinely wanted to share it with all of us. He was sincere and grateful for all of the work we do on his behalf.

So on behalf of Governor Richardson, thank you for the work you're doing. Through all of your hard work we will elect Bill Richardson the next President of the United States.

Governor Richardson on Stephanie Miller Show

2007-05-22T08:16:00.000-07:00

In case you missed it, Governor Richardson was on The Stephanie Miller Show last week. You can listen to the interview here.

Text of Bill Richardson's Announcement Speech

2007-05-21T20:49:00.000-07:00

Here is the complete text of Governor Richardson's speech (as prepared for delivery) announcing the end of the exploratory phase of his campaign and his intention to seek the Democratic nomination for President in 2008.

"I'd like to thank all of you for joining us here today. It means so much to me to officially announce my candidacy in California, the state I was born in and the state whose primary I plan on winning on my way to becoming the next President of the United States.

The United States faces huge challenges, but also huge opportunities. I am running for President because these times call for a leader with a proven track record, and a demonstrated ability to bring people together to tackle our problems at home and abroad.

I am that person, not because I say so, but because of what I have done, and what I can do for the American people. The challenge of the campaign I am launching today is to get that message heard.

Running for this office is the ultimate job interview. It's not just about the positions you've held but the job you've done and your ability to lead on day one at a very critical time in our nation's history.

This Presidential election is unlike any other we've ever seen. From day one, we have to repair the damage done here at home and to our reputation abroad. And that all starts with restoring diplomacy as the primary instrument of our foreign policy ... and basic fairness as the primary means for problem solving in Washington.

There are a lot of candidates in this race with good ideas. But coming up with a good idea is only half the job. The other half is bringing people together to get it done. I'm proud of my record of getting things done. And I'll put that record up against anyone's.

Some of the critical questions to ask every candidate in this race are: how will you solve the crisis in Iraq and bring our troops home? How will you deal with global warming? How will you address the health care crisis in this country? And what will you do about illegal immigration? How will you grow the middle class again?

I cannot address all these in one short statement, and I urge everyone to check my website, www.Richardsonforpresident.com, for a more complete explanation, but let us discuss several:

First, Iraq.

Some will tell you that we only have two options: either stay in Iraq and try to referee a civil war or leave and collapse into chaos. I've spent a lot of time in this part of the world and let me tell this: that is a false choice.

Removing all of our troops and healing Iraq are one and the same. Only when it is clear that the US will leave Iraq can the hard diplomatic work have a chance for success. A negotiated political settlement, involving the warring parties and interested neighbors is how to prevent a regional war.

And we have a strategic interest in organizing a regional conference, with all of Iraq's neighbors including Syria and Iran, to help stabilize Iraq.

But I would leave no troops behind in Iraq. No air bases. No security patrols. No embedded soldiers training Iraqi forces ... because we all know what that means. It means our troops would still be out on the streets with targets on their backs.

We need a president who is not dismissive of diplomacy, but someone who embraces it as the primary instrument of foreign policy because he has practiced it, and knows how to get results.

Being stubborn is not a foreign policy and being President means working with both parties. As Lee Iacocca has said: "Courage in the 21st Century doesn't mean posturing and bravado. Courage means a commitment to sitting down at the negotiating table and talk." I agree.

It was tough, face-to-face talks that helped secure the release of journalist Paul Salopek, and two colleagues from a jail in Darfur. I am so proud that his wife, Linda Lynch, is here today. You know, when I visited Darfur in January and negotiated a cease fire, I saw thousands of widows and fatherless children trying to escape the genocide ... waiting in line in oppressive heat for a month. They wanted to know why it was taking the United States so long to do something. I didn't have a good answer. As President, I will make sure the US leads the world in saying no more- the violence must end.

We also need a President who is not dismissive of energy independence and global warming. This is no longer a choice---it is a moral imperative for our planet and a matter of survival of our country.

I'm proud that I made New Mexico the clean energy state. We're already requiring utility companies to produce energy from renewable sources. We've already invested directly in energy efficiency, we're promoting renewable energy with tax credits for using wind, solar, and biofuels, and we've eliminated taxes on hybrid cars.

I have the most aggressive plan of anyone running for President. Within twelve years, my plan would reduce greenhouse emissions by 20 percent, lower demand for oil by fifty percent, and push fuel economy standards to 50 miles per gallon.

By the year 2040, my plan would require that 50 percent of our electricity be generated from renewable sources and would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent.

The League of Conservation Voters rated mine the most aggressive plan with the highest goals of any candidate.

I'm also ambitious on health care.

Every political candidate says that all Americans should have access to affordable health care. But how do we achieve that? .

In New Mexico, we have made a start by expanding our state health insurance to cover every child under five, we have tackled childhood obesity, we've insured more working New Mexicans and we're looking to expand it even more.

But states shouldn't have to struggle to solve this problem on their own.

My plan as President is simple: Every employer must provide health insurance for their employees or pay an equivalent fee to the federal government, and every individual must have health insurance.

Employers and individuals will have their choice of options-- if they like the coverage they have, they can keep it. My plan creates no new federal bureaucracies.

Next, the middle class. They have been under attack for the last 6 years. As President, I am going to reverse that and pursue polices like those we have in New Mexico. We gave tax credits to companies that create jobs paying above the prevailing wage, we helped start up high tech companies and we invested in technical training

And, while Washington DC could not do anything, we passed a $7.50/hour minimum wage

And finally, immigration. As the Governor of a border state, I deal with this issue every day.

The proposal moving forward in the Senate is a step in the right direction toward establishing a path to legalization. But at the same time it's a step in the wrong direction because it separates parents from children and loved ones from their families.

The touchback provision is ill conceived, and any guest worker program mustrequire available jobs to be first posted for American citizens and legal residents.
We can address the illegal immigration problem by taking three realistic steps.
First, we have to recognize that no fence ever built has stopped history. And a border fence wouldn't either. If you build a ten foot fence, someone will use an 11 foot ladder.
Instead, use that money to secure the border with more Border Patrol officers. We need to at least double the number of Border Patrol agents. That would secure the border.
Second, we need a path to legalization requiring those living in the United States illegally to pay a realistic fine, pass a background check, and pay any back taxes.
And third, we have to work closely with the Mexican government. Mexico needs to do more to stem the flow. But if we create a reasonable guest worker program and provide a path to legalization for illegal immigrants already here, there is every reason to expect Mexico to do its part with economic reforms and to help us with border security.
You can go to my website, www.Richardsonforpresident.com, to find my complete plans on each of these issues. These will be some of the defining issues of the campaign.
This is a pivotal time in our nation's history. The challenges we face are not acts of God or accidents of fate. They were man-made and deliberate.
Whether it was willful ignorance or an ignorant will, we are left with the ravages of an administration that will take years to rectify.

We cannot expect the world to readily trust us as before. But we can try. We can negotiate with honor, defend with integrity, and reach out with conciliation. We have many fences to mend ... and I'm ready to get started."

Bill Richardson Announcement Video

2007-05-21T12:38:00.000-07:00

Here is the video that Bill Richardson for President put up on its website this morning. Warning: You'll have to turn your sound up because the sound quality is low.

And for our Spanish speaking friends, Bill Richardson anuncia para la Presidencia:

Liveblogging: Bill Richardson for President Announcement

2007-05-21T10:19:00.000-07:00

In just a few minutes, at the Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles, Bill Richardson is officially announcing his intention to run for President. Governor Richardson is surrounded by friends and long-time supporters from New Mexico and California for the announcement.

First Lady Barbara Richardson has just introduced Governor Bill Richardson. He's thanking 3 women who have spoken today: LA County Supervisor Gloria Molina, Linda Lynch and his wife, Barbara.

He's asking a question of Lt. Governor Diane Denish, wondering who is minding the store since both of them are in Los Angeles.

He recognized that he was born in California and says he will win the primary. Says he will make history, and speaking some Spanish says he will be the first Latino President of the United States.

He says he is running for President because this nation needs a leader who has a track record and can bring people together.

Unfortunately, CNN cut away, MSNBC isn't covering the speech and Faux News had it but cut away to violence in Lebanon.

Stay tuned, we'll have the video and text of the announcement speech as soon as we get it.

Live from Los Angeles

2007-05-21T09:58:00.000-07:00

I'm not in Los Angeles, but Joaquin Guerra is and he just posted a blog entry at the campaign website.

In less than an hour, Governor Bill Richardson will announce that he is officially running for President of the United States of America. I'm in Downtown Los Angeles at the historic Biltmore Hotel, where the Governor will make his announcement. By his side will be his wife, the First Lady of New Mexico, Barbara Richardson, and many of the Governor's long time supporters from New Mexico and California.

Like the momentum that we've built on the campaign, the excitement is building here in the Gold Room. The room is filling up and people are talking about the Governor's poll numbers, he's up 10 points in Iowa and New Hampshire. They're talking about his latest ads which are a hit, not just in Iowa and New Hampshire, but on You Tube where they've been viewed more that 100 Thousand times.
And they're talking about the fact that the Governor is the only candidate that is calling for getting our troops out of Iraq this year and leaving noresidual US forces in Iraq. Learn more about the Governor'splan to de-authorize the war and withdraw ALL troops by the end of the year, so that we can start redirecting our energy toward what matters most for Americans: improving education, expanding access to quality health care, and addressing the REAL security threats like the Taliban, nuclear proliferation, and global warming.

Tune in to CNN, which is carrying the Governor's announcement live in just a few minutes.

Richardson for President.Com 2.0

2007-05-21T07:12:00.001-07:00

In case you haven't seen it this morning, go check out the new Richardson For President. All of you Washingtonians who support Bill Richardson, please go here and sign up for an account and join the Washington for Richardson group. In the past, we have been using Zanby as our online organizing tool, but now will be switching over to using the tools at Richardson for President to organize ourselves. Make sure you sign up for an account so you don't miss any important announcements from me regarding our Meetups, and other important information about the campaign.

With a new blog, new tools to get involved, and even a portal for our Spanish speaking friends, there is something for everyone at Richardson for President.

I will not be abandoning this blog and will still regularly update it, so check back here for more information on Bill Richardson's campaign. But please sign up for your account and join the Washington for Richardson group.

Richardson Officially Announcing Run for President

2007-05-20T13:27:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow, at the historic Biltmore hotel in Los Angeles (my hometown), Governor Richardson will make it official and announce that he is running for President.

"I am running for President of the United States because I can bring together a country that is divided and partisan," said Governor Bill Richardson. "My background, experience and record as Governor of New Mexico, UN Ambassador, Secretary of Energy and Congressman, enable me to bridge gaps, achieve political solutions, heal partisan divisions and solve problems.

"I believe in America - the greatest nation in the world - but we must restore our leadership. We have lost our moral compass at home and abroad. I am optimistic about the future. America should not be afraid. We have to be bold, patriotic and confident that we can resolve problems and bring peace by working together. We need hope, faith, and optimism. Qualities that have always represented and defined the American spirit. We need experienced and accomplished leadership now more than ever. I believe I can best provide this leadership for our nation and help move American forward.

Richardson Climbing in Latest Iowa Poll

2007-05-20T13:13:00.001-07:00

According to the latest Des Moines Register poll of 400 likely Democratic caucus participants, Bill Richardson comes in at 10%. While still trailing John Edwards, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton (in that order), Bill Richardson is gaining on the perceived front-runners.

I attribute the gains in Iowa and the recent gains in New Hampshire to a few things. One, Bill Richardson was the first Democrat on the air in those two states, with great ads highlighting his experience. Two, recent trips to Iowa and New Hampshire (in combination with the ads) have increased Richardson's name recognition among the citizens of those two states. Three, Bill Richardson is a master at the art of retail politics, his personal style suited to the kind of one on one contact that Iowa and New Hampshire require of Presidential candidates. The more people see of Bill Richardson the more they like him. Four, the voters of Iowa and New Hampshire do not like being told who to vote for or who the frontrunners are (just ask Howard Dean about Iowa and Bob Dole about New Hampshire).

This recent rise in the polls is just the beginning for Bill Richardson.

Who do you think won the Democratic debate at St. Anselm College?
Choice	Votes	Percentage of 1495 Votes
Joe Biden	88	6%
Hillary Clinton	442	30%
Chris Dodd	69	5%
John Edwards	150	10%
Mike Gravel	62	4%
Dennis Kucinich	58	4%
Barack Obama	153	10%
Bill Richardson	473	32%