NPR: Richardson Hints He May Make Endorsement

Richardson Hints He May Make Endorsement

Well, he took his time, but it now looks like New Mexico Governor (and former Democratic presidential candidate) Bill Richardson might make a decision this week and give an endorsement.

"I'm just not trying to be cute. I just have felt that an endorsement by me, I don't think it is that significant," he said on CNN's Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer. "But I still might do it."

The endorsement of Richardson (along with fellow former candidate John Edwards) has been much sought by both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. It could turn out to be a key endorsement particularly with the Latino community in next week's Texas primary.

CNN's Political Ticker blog says that, in an interview with Wolf Blitzer, Richardson wouldn't say if he was leaning to Clinton or Obama. He praised both candidates and said they are running a "classic campaign." But he did say that he didn't agree with the Clinton campaign's assertion that Obama doesn't have the experience to be president.

Richardson's "maybe, sorta" endorsement announcement follows the news that earlier today another former presidential candidate, Sen. Chris Dodd, announced his support for Obama.

10:46 PM ET | 02-26-2008 | permalink

Comments

Does anyone care who this dufus who told Melissa Etheridge he thought being gay was a choice endorses? (And he used the Spanish word "maricon" let's not forget that.)

Sent by Frank R. | 12:23 AM ET | 02-27-2008

To Frank R.

That's a nasty allegation. Can you cite any evidence?

Sent by tracy k. | 11:24 AM ET | 02-27-2008

I've been troubled by the negative campaign that Senator Clinton has increasingly engaged in over the last several weeks.

While a certain level of aggressive tactics are to be expected in a spirited campaign, she and her campaign have crossed the line into mudslinging, innuendo and identity politics over the last several weeks. In doing so, her slash and burn, scorched earth campaign is severely damaging the Democratic party. Democrats need to remember the bigger objective; winning on November 4th. We do that with coalition, not division.

I suspect that Bill Richardson, as a well established and influential figure within the Democratic party (and former cabinet member of Bill Clinton's administration), may be sending Senator Clinton a clear message to look at the bigger picture; the party's chances in November. Senator Chris Dodd just gave his endorsement to Senator Obama and suggested that both campaigns watch their tone over the next week leading up to the critical Ohio and Texas contests. I suspect that is a very common sentiment within the party establishment these days.

Sent by Sonmi | 11:31 AM ET | 02-27-2008

I believe Richardson's endorsement does mean alot within the Latino community, but even more so within the Democratic Party. His support ultimately will be for the person he believes can beat John McCain. I actually await news of his endorsement, hopefully sooner rather than later!

Sent by Donna Engstrom | 11:36 AM ET | 02-27-2008

Let's not forget that the former President Clinton while in office gave 2 different appointments to Bill Richardson and they are still friends. While everyone has turned their backs to the Clintons, I think he should remember what President Clinton did for him and endorse Senator Clinton for President.
People,be fair to Senator Clinton! Thanks!

Sent by Nana Adwoa Dennis | 4:02 PM ET | 02-27-2008

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