NPR: With California on the Line, Richardson Much Sought

With California on the Line, Richardson Much Sought

It's one of the ironies of life that New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson is probably being courted more ferociously this week than anytime when he was actually running for president. That's because he is seen as a key to the Latino vote. And now that Sen. Ted Kennedy has thrown his support to Sen. Barack Obama, Richardson is one of the last prominent Democrats to endorse someone.

Richardson's endorsement is being eagerly sought because of Super Tuesday, when several large states with significant Latino populations (like California) will vote.

In a conversation with the Washington Post, Richardson admits he's torn. He served in the Clinton White House and likes Sen. Clinton. But he also regards Kennedy as a mentor, and his opinion about Sen. Barack Obama carries a lot of weight.

If he endorses anyone, it will come at the end of this week.

"If I do endorse, it's going to be a gut feeling. It's not going to be about statistics, about past ties," Richardson said. "I've been on the campaign trail with both of them. I feel that I know them. I feel I know the issues. I feel I know what makes them both tick."

10:32 AM ET | 01-29-2008 | permalink

Comments

The Latino vote is divided. The CubanAmericans dislike the Kennedys,threfore they will vote Republican or against Obama. The Mexican American vote will go mostly to the Democrats.

Sent by Maggie | 1:59 PM ET | 01-29-2008

richardson would make an excellent pick for veep.

Sent by adam schaeffer | 2:25 PM ET | 01-29-2008

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