Imus Clears Things Up for Gov. Bill Richardson
En route to a national governors conference in Washington, DC, New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson checked in with the I-Man to talk about developments in his state, President Obama’s job performance, and just what he’ll do after leaving office at the end of this year.
Fresh off a state legislative session, Richardson told Imus there was still some unfinished business.
“We didn’t reach an agreement on the budget, and we didn’t pass some of my bills, like domestic partners,” said Richardson, who will hold another session next week.
After dropping his Presidential bid in 2008, Richardson had endorsed Barack Obama, whom he thinks has done a good job so far as President.
“His strongest accomplishments have been internationally: phasing out of Iraq, making sure we have sound policy in Afghanistan, America’s image is stronger around the world, especially in the Third World,” said Richardson.
He acknowledged that Obama has faced some domestic challenges. But, he said, “I think he’s attacked them effectively, efficiently.” He would have liked to see more progress on health care, considering the number of uninsured in New Mexico, yet he strongly supports Obama. “I think this year will be a good year for him,” Richardson predicted.
Hoping to clear up any confusion, Imus said, “You realize I’m talking about President Barack Obama? The one in Washintgon? Not this guy who you were just talking about, who has been doing this wonderful job?”
Laughing, Richardson said that from his vantage point, Obama’s done pretty well. “The Republicans might start helping him every once in a while, instead of just being negative on everything,” he observed.
Obama, he believes, has changed America’s role in the world “to one of being a leader again, and not necessarily a country that dictates.” Besides addressing challenges in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Iran, Obama has improved the United States’s standing in Latin America, Africa, and Asia, too. “We have more clout there,” Richardson added.
Having served as Governor since 2003, Richardson is ready for some time off, followed by a little bit of who-knows-what. A big baseball fan, Richardson’s goal is to visit every Major League Baseball stadium once he’s out of office.
“I haven’t driven a car in a while,” he said. “So I’m going to get in my car and drive myself to some of these baseballs stadiums.”
That’s a lot of hot dogs.
-Julie Kanfer
Reader Comments (2)
After dropping his Presidential bid in 2008, Richardson had endorsed Barack Obama, whom he thinks has done a good job so far as President.
That's McCord's constant news grammar error, corrupting little Julie!
Don't take grammar advice from McCord. He can't tell who from whom.
McCord is a God whom everyone loves. I do find his white sneaks a bit declasse!