STATE News:
The following officials and organizations have issued expressions of condolence on the passing overnight of Former New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson.
U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich:
“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. Ben Ray Luján:
“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. “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.”
U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury:
“Governor Bill Richardson has left an indelible mark on New Mexico politics and public service. Throughout his career as Governor, Member of Congress, UN Ambassador, Secretary of Energy, and in international diplomacy—he lived and loved big, mentored a generation of leaders, and served our great state and nation. I first met Governor Richardson as a young person when he was my Congressman—and like so many others, was catalyzed into a path of public service on behalf of our state. Governor Richardson’s loss will be felt across the planet. My prayers go out to his family and all who are remembering and grieving his loss and this giant in New Mexico politics.”
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham:
“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.”
New Mexico Speaker of the House Javier Martínez:
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Governor Richardson – a lifelong public servant and political giant. Throughout his long career he made a tremendous impact – not only here in New Mexico as our Congressman and Governor, but nationally as a Cabinet Secretary, and internationally, as a champion for the rights of those unjustly detained abroad. Governor Richardson was a fierce advocate for New Mexico’s working families and for democracy, human rights, and free speech worldwide. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of service and diplomacy. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Barbara and the entire Richardson family during this difficult time. Vaya con Dios, amigo.”
LULAC Officials:
“LULAC is deeply saddened by the passing of Bill Richardson, a loyal and trusted leader whose lifetime of service provided a lasting legacy of advocacy on behalf of millions of Latinos and our country. Bill Richardson, who served two terms as the Governor of New Mexico and was a distinguished member of Congress for 14 years, has left an indelible mark on our nation’s history. As Ambassador to the United Nations under President Bill Clinton, he demonstrated exceptional diplomatic prowess. Beyond his impressive political career, he actively engaged with LULAC, attending conventions and offering invaluable guidance to LULAC presidents on issues impacting Latinos nationally.”
Conservation Voters New Mexico (CVNM) Executive Director Demis Foster:
“Today we mourn the loss of one of the nation’s most distinguished advocates for community well-being and environmental protection. A lifelong public servant, Bill Richardson was instrumental in enacting fundamental initiatives that set a new bar for environmental protection in New Mexico. These advancements included the state’s first renewable portfolio standard, creation of the Rail Runner Express, clean up of the Los Alamos National Laboratory, co-founding the Western Climate Initiative cap and trade efforts, and more. His administration also advocated for the establishment of the National Heritage Conservation Act, which created a permanent mechanism to fund conservation projects statewide. All of these actions have forged a multi-generational legacy that state leaders and advocates continue to build on today. The staff and board of CVNM express our deepest condolences to the Richardson family, and the broad nationwide network of advocates, changemakers, and decision-makers connected to and engaged in Richardson’s many efforts. The legacy Richardson forged in his many years of service will be eternally remembered by all.”
Spaceport America Officials:
“Governor Richardson’s belief in the future of New Mexico is reflected in Spaceport America’s journey in developing technologies, companies, and economic opportunity for the citizens of our state and all mankind. During his time in office, Governor Richardson had a vital and profound impact on the creation of the spaceport. It can well be argued that the spaceport would not exist without his vision, passion, belief in the potential of New Mexico, and the tireless work he put in to make it a reality. He will be greatly missed.”
Common Cause New Mexico State Director Heather Ferguson:
“He was one of the strongest Governors New Mexico ever had. While he might be remembered more for his diplomacy and the economic advances he brought to New Mexico (the film industry, the Spaceport, the Rail Runner to name a few) we remember him for his 2007 Ethics Reform Task Force. It spurred so much legislation over the subsequent decades—a Gift Ban, Public Financing of the PRC and state judicial races, limits on campaign contributions and an ethics commission. He was a champion you wanted to have in your corner—with courage, deft negation skills and a fighting spirit. We will miss him.”
Former Executive Director Viki Harrison of the New Mexico Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty & Founding Advisory Committee Members of Death Penalty Action:
“Governor Richardson changed the course of history in New Mexico when he signed the bill to abolish the death penalty in March 2009. He became a champion of abolition and helped in many other places over the last decade. I lost a mentor and a friend and am devasted by this news – just messaged with him a couple of months ago. Sending much love to Barbara and the rest of the family.”
Executive Director Abraham Bonowitz Death Penalty Action:
“Governor Richardson was a consummate Statesman, and this was exhibited in particular when he came to understand how capital punishment is a failed public policy. He changed his mind and in 2009 became the second Governor in the modern death penalty era to sign death penalty repeal legislation. I also was honored to work with Governor Richardson in Delaware and supported his efforts to end executions worldwide.”
