Leaders react to the passing of former NM Gov. Bill Richardson
“Hillary and I are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Gov. Bill Richardson, a devoted public servant and skilled diplomat whose career improved countless lives in New Mexico, across America and around the world.
“From his years in Congress, to his service in my Administration as Ambassador to the United Nations and Secretary of Energy, to his two terms as Governor, to his efforts with the Richardson Center for Global Engagement, Bill worked tirelessly for the causes of freedom, fairness and opportunity.
“His innate diplomatic skills made him a success at the U.N., and his roots in the West, and his experience, helped him succeed as Secretary of Energy.
“Whether in an official or unofficial capacity, he was a masterful and persistent negotiator who helped make our world more secure and won the release of many individuals held unjustly abroad. He was also a trailblazer whose career helped pave the path for other Latino Americans to serve at the highest levels of American government.
“I will always be grateful for the opportunity to know and work closely with him. His legacy will endure with all the people who are better off today because of his outstanding service. My thoughts and prayers are with Barbara, his family and everyone who loved him.”
— Former President Bill Clinton
“My prayers are with Barbara and the Richardson family. Thank you for your many years of service, Bill. Rest in peace.”
— Former N.M. Gov. Susana Martinez (on social media)
“I am saddened to hear the news of Bill Richardson’s passing. He was an exceptional public servant, a relentless advocate for those unjustly held overseas and a true friend. I send my deepest condolences to the Richardson family during this difficult time.”
— Former Vice President Al Gore
“New Mexico, our country, and, frankly, the entire world lost a champion today. Bill Richardson was a titan among us, fighting for the little guy, world peace, and everything in between. “He was a visionary who saw the potential of our great state before so many others did. He saw us taking on Hollywood and reaching for the stars, launching both the film and space industries that continue to reap significant economic benefits today. His reputation preceded him around the globe: Bill Richardson is someone who gets things done.
“For my own part, Bill was a mentor and advisor who was instrumental in my own journey into elected office. He was a steadfast friend who celebrated my successes, and someone I could turn to in those moments when leading is particularly challenging.
“I am immeasurably grateful to have known such a giant among men.
“I offer my most sincere condolences to his wife, Barbara, his family, friends and all those who had the honor of working with him over the years to make our world a better place for all.”
— N.M. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham
“Governor Bill Richardson believed New Mexico could do big things. His ambition for our state meant he never accepted mediocrity, and always pushed us to fight for the future we deserved. I was privileged to serve in his administration and will forever be grateful for all that he taught me. Governor Richardson’s legacy will have a lasting impact on the United States and the world, as it already has had on me and so many others. Julie and I have the Richardson family in our thoughts.”
— U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M.
“Governor Richardson was a giant in public service and government — serving as a Member of Congress, United Nations Ambassador, Cabinet Secretary, and Governor. In his post-government career, he was trusted to handle some of the most sensitive diplomatic crises, and he did so with great success. Here in New Mexico, we will always remember him as our Governor. He never stopped fighting for the state he called home.
“Governor Richardson was a close friend who held the same House seat that I was elected to. He knew how to get things done, and he worked closely with my late father in the Legislature.
“His passing is incredibly heartbreaking for so many New Mexicans who knew and respected him. He leaves behind a legacy that will never be matched, and one that New Mexicans will always take pride in. My prayers are with Barbara, the Richardson family, and all New Mexicans. His memory will always be a blessing.”
— U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Lújan, D-N.M.