January 6, 2009
Posted: January 6th, 2009 09:07 AM ET

From
New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson was a Democratic presidential contender in the primaries.
New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson was a Democratic presidential contender in the primaries.

(CNN) - Bill Richardson's withdrawal from his commerce secretary nomination Sunday didn't just leave a major gap in the new administration, but it also sorely disappointed Latinos who view the New Mexico governor as their most prominent representative.

"We are hugely disappointed. It's a stunned community out there," said Janet MurguĂ­a, president and CEO of the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States.

"He is a very well-recognized leader not just in the Latino community but in this country and he has a long record of public service," she said.

Full story

Filed under: Barack Obama • Bill Richardson


Ya no mas, por favor   January 6th, 2009 2:19 pm ET

Enough of this crap! I am latino and I voted for Obama (and would've done it a thousands times if given the chance!) not because I wanted him or expected him to appoint more latinos, blacks, or asians to high level positions in his administration, but because I expected him to appoint the right people for the job.

I am a big fan of Bill Richardson and I think he would've made a great Sec. of State. But Hillary was the right choice, not because she's a woman but because she is, I believe, the right person for the job at this time.

Let's stop whining! No mas!

Elizabeth   January 6th, 2009 2:05 pm ET

I am disappointed that Richardson has seemingly made poor choices and in doing so, now has had to give up his cabinet position. Though I am a huge advocate of promoting ethnic diversity in the world, and in this case the White House, I do not believe that Obama "owes" the Hispanic community anything.

The Hispanic community showed great support to get him elected, but so did African-Americans, Caucasians, etc. If he was filling Cabinet positions solely on someone's ethnicity, it would demonstrate immensely poor judgment and something he would simply not do.

David S.   January 6th, 2009 2:03 pm ET

I would hope Latinos would be more disappointed with the fact his administration is corrupt. Its getting that more and more groups will support anyone as long as he is the same color.

Dee G. - CT Voter   January 6th, 2009 1:52 pm ET

It really is scary to see how many uninformed – and completely IGNORANT people are out there! Obama has done nothing wrong – and as for Richardson, what happened to "Innocent until PROVEN Guilty"? Seems like all you sore loser republicans out there will take even the slightest whiff of a reason to blame Obama for everything – even BEFORE giving him a chance to prove himself! Those of you with less than a High School education........sit down and zip it! (Your doing a fine job of proving your lack of education)

Larry   January 6th, 2009 1:46 pm ET

Typical Democrats-Many of the people Obama has surrounded himself with have questionable ethics.

FreeNLovIt   January 6th, 2009 1:44 pm ET

If we are going to look under the hood, nobody will be qualify to RUN our government EXCEPT the priests and the nuns. Hey, how about the POPE for Prez.

FreeNLovIt   January 6th, 2009 1:42 pm ET

Richardson is a good man. He's an angel next to W and Cheney and Halliburton officials.

FreeNLovIt   January 6th, 2009 1:41 pm ET

to IraqVet

I dont care what race the individual is, the bottomline is, we need quality men and women, regardless of political affiliations, race or gender. Right now, the political process does no help any GOOD men or women. It's too expensive. Like jay Leno said, Hillary and Obama both came up each with 200 million dollars to win over a 100K job. Glamorous...

Amber   January 6th, 2009 1:40 pm ET

I don't get it...

So everyone's complaining about Obama's stringent vetting?

The right-wing bloggers here and elsewhere have made it perfectly clear that no quarter will be given for the smallest of slip ups by Democrats. For crying out loud, you fools impeached the last one over lying about a stain on a dress! Of course the new administration is going to be careful.

So what is really the issue, guys?

That we're running a tighter ship than you did in the past eight years not from day one, but from T-60 days?

Franky   January 6th, 2009 1:35 pm ET

You know, I am disappointed as well. Not only because the Gov but because he was one of the few Latinos in this Administration. I'm not saying that he should have every race or color in his Administration to show how diverse he is but the fact that Gov Richardson knows how to play the game, he paid his dues.

All I'm asking for anyone else who think they probably did nothing wrong or are in an investigation, to think what they are doing because people will find out but unfortunately, it seems like the truth is not always told nowadays...

RCLGuard   January 6th, 2009 1:31 pm ET

@ Rick

When you're bashing you might want to try spell check next time.

Venia   January 6th, 2009 1:23 pm ET

Empty people voted for an empty suit – If you think Obama is an empty suit than bush must be invisible. where have you been these last eight years as bush and the rethuglicans ruined our country. Obama has done more so far as president elect than your invisible man has done in 8 years.

Sweetie   January 6th, 2009 1:22 pm ET

Obama and his team are showing very bad judgement with their selections for the new administration.

Latinos are not the only folks that are disappointed.

Steveman   January 6th, 2009 1:17 pm ET

They are barely sworn in and already the Democrats are embroiled in corruption. Come on guys, we'll throw you out in 2010. For now, try to show some shred of ethics!

IndiePA   January 6th, 2009 1:10 pm ET

Yeh, well. He did the right thing by withdrawing in the face of scandal. One less to stand for amnesty of the ILLEGAL brethren.

dEMOBRAT   January 6th, 2009 1:05 pm ET

Carlos Mencia is a sexist pig.

dEMOBRAT   January 6th, 2009 1:05 pm ET

Poor JUDAS!

NICK   January 6th, 2009 1:01 pm ET

This is a very big disappointment for me, and I am not a Latino. I had high hopes for,and from, Richerson. I hope he is eventually cleared of any wrong doing.

yolanda   January 6th, 2009 12:58 pm ET

Richardson is an ingrate who back stabbed Hillary Clinton. Serves him right.. traitor. he only thinks of himself and how things would benefit him

by bye judas is quite appropiate

RLE   January 6th, 2009 12:50 pm ET

steve where were you when Bush was in office? It amazes me how you people are quick to point a finger and criticize President-elect Obama when we have had crooks in the White House and Congress for decades and now that President-elect Obama is the 44th president there is nothing but criticism. Give him a chance; just see what happens. Afterall Obama has run the best campaign in history and I believe as president he will do as great as he did during the election. Give him an opportumity to make America better

Scandal   January 6th, 2009 12:37 pm ET

To Rick:

Do you reall want to go there! The Republican Party has generated a long line of criminals and crooks.....I thought no one could top Richard Nixon....but Dumb and Dumber, Bush/Cheney have turned out to be the biggest criminals yet! I'll take a Democrat over a Republican any day!

Bafun   January 6th, 2009 12:34 pm ET

@ Rick
and what about corrupt republicans?

IraqVet   January 6th, 2009 12:33 pm ET

Mike in Syracuse,

I think you are overlooking the glaring realities of race and gender inequity and how we got here. So here are some facts for the cheap seats: the country is 52% women, women are going to college at a higher rate than men, there are 37M African Americans and 40M Latinos, 3-4M Asians and Indians. Yet the Senate is STILL 87% white men. This is not right, no matter how you call it. People have a right to challenge the status quo if something doesn't look right. I don't believe in race or gender quotas but this country has had affiirmative action for white men in this country for centuries, which is the very reason the Senate is what it is. Therefore denouncing race and gender as factors when it no longer works in your favor is tantamount to talking out of both sides of your mouth.

Please don't try to tell me there arent highly qualified Blacks, Latinos, Asians, Indians OR Women. Read the census data that your own government provides. There are literally millions of extraordinary people living in this country and yet here we still are selecting mediocrity so that white people can hold on to some semblance or illusion of power. There are no accidents in politics.

Steve   January 6th, 2009 12:32 pm ET

I have never seen such a cloud of scandal that surrrounded a president -elect before. I don't agree much with James Carville but he believes there is more to come. Hope not but we will see! I am NOT saying Obama is a part of all this but there is perception of bad judgment, so far! Not on everything and everyone but it is front page news in the MSM! As far as his pick for the CIA director, should there be some intel experience rather than just political? I hope this gets shot down by the Congress!

Empty people voted for an empty suit   January 6th, 2009 12:30 pm ET

Didn't Obambi vett Mr Richardson?

Oh, my bad, that can only be used by the NYT's, Keith Olbermann, Chris Matthews and the rest of the cabal on Republicans.

The "chosen one" is perfect and makes no mistakes, someone else selected Richardson or Richardson lied or it's part of the new vast right-wing conspiracy maybe?

Cue the the circuis music people, this is going to be fun.......

Mike, Syracuse NY   January 6th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

Lauren the Designer January 6th, 2009 10:48 am ET:
And cue all the whiners blaming this on Obama. Richardson has not been found of any wrongdoing. I'm sure this was a difficult decision for him, but I think he deserves kudos for doing the right thing here and backing off so that things can move forward in a timely manner.

1. He didn't voluntarily step down, Obamas people asked him to. So no 'kudos' for him.
2. The Obama vetting process clearly blew it. His process, his team, his blame. Who else would you blame? Bush? Sorry Lauren, when you lead the team, you get both the credit for success and blame for failure.
3. Obama promised change. Not being convicted of anything is a pretty low bar to set when picking key staff.

s   January 6th, 2009 12:20 pm ET

The Hispanic population shouldn't be dissappointed because Richardson isn't going to serve. I believe Obama would ultimately appoint a Latino he believes would serve the nation well. What I wouldn't like is him choosing to appoint an Hispanic state man for the heck of saying he has one in his administration.

my 2 cents...

Bob   January 6th, 2009 12:04 pm ET

Hope this little scandal gets wings ! It involves all sorts of politicians including my own Ed Rendell ! Been waiting for him to trip up.

Kurt C.   January 6th, 2009 12:01 pm ET

If he wants a hispanic, I hear Che Guevara is needing work.

arc, Lugano CH   January 6th, 2009 12:01 pm ET

Fred in KY January 6th, 2009 9:54 am ET
Maybe they could get some other Mexican for that job
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
'Country First'!! 'USA'!! 'Country First'!! 'USA'!! 'McCain/Palin'!!

Mari   January 6th, 2009 12:01 pm ET

Its so tiresome to continue to read comments from the far-right-nuts! Why don't you people stop with the lies? Lies, hate, fear and division IS what caused the Republicans the election!

I am a Latina and I am not upset about the Richardson withdrawal. Just because a few high-profile people are upset doesn't mean the majority of us are!

SO amusing to read the far-right-nuts claiming that Richardson is a "crook"...... when the BIGGEST ONES .........Bush & Cheney they elected TWICE!

BUSH HAS BANKRUPTED OUR NATION....... WITH A NATIONAL DEBT OF OVER........$10 TRILLION......... OWED TO CHINA, SAUDI ARABIA AND DUBAI....... AND THE FAR-RIGHT COMPLAINS ABOUT ......OBAMA?????????? CRAZIES!

Veterans for Obama   January 6th, 2009 11:58 am ET

IF you do you know have anything positive to SAY, get off the blob. Freedom of Speech is NOT for YOU.

We have moved on. This MAN did what HE felt was RIGHT for HIM. He should be COMMENDED for having the common sense to do so.

SO SHUT UP AND GO FIND YOURSELF....

Joey   January 6th, 2009 11:54 am ET

Perhaps we should remember that it is important to elect our officials based on their credentials. However, recent history has not proven to uphold the long standing belief that you can tell who a person is based on his or her career opportunities. Do you really blame the Latin community for desiring representation in Washington? We have been staring at the same model of America for over 200 years. Isn't it possible that change requires new physical features in order to represent our entire populace?

Patricia in Las Vegas   January 6th, 2009 11:47 am ET

hear, hear, Lauren .... I agree with you.

karen-phoenix   January 6th, 2009 11:46 am ET

Richardson is NOT envolved in anything!! The news media keeps this up a produces some pretty nasty stories that just are not true.

Samilton   January 6th, 2009 11:46 am ET

He'll be back!

FreeNLovIt   January 6th, 2009 11:46 am ET

W and Cheney werent impeached, why should he have to go? I forgive all. The same bar should apply to all politicians in the next 8 years. The bar that W and Cheney used.

Bev   January 6th, 2009 11:45 am ET

As usual....in the Democratic party you are used and disposed of on a regular basis like paper towels. I guess he shouldn't have slighted Hillary after all....Amazing how important he was during the election and now there's not even first page news about his illegal activities. Amazing how that works.

Alan   January 6th, 2009 11:42 am ET

What are they stunned about. the fact that he is crooked or the fact that he had to resigned because he is crooked.

GO OBAMA – this is great

RaeNanda Pointer   January 6th, 2009 11:35 am ET

National Council of The RACE. Liberal hypocrisy continues...

kelly WI   January 6th, 2009 11:31 am ET

Richardson didn't want a 4th tier position any way. He wanted v.p. or S.O.S
Another Clintonite appointed yesterday. Panetta who has no back ground in the intel business.

Kelcie in Atlanta   January 6th, 2009 11:31 am ET

Hispanics are upset because there are not "enough" hispanic selections. Women are upset because there are not "enough" women selected. Gays & Lesbians are upset because Rick Warren will provide the invocation at the inauguration.

Yet, President Elect Obama will have to tackle some of the greatest issues that we have faced as a country. Seriously, get over it.

Charlize   January 6th, 2009 11:30 am ET

Has it occurred to any of you that MAYBE RICHARDSON HIMSELF DOESN'T CARE ABOUT THE SEC. OF COMMERCE POST, because he really wanted to be Secretary of State and he is mad at Obama for handing it to Clinton, and he actually used the investigation thing to find an easy way out? He might have had second thoughts about accepting a post he really didn't like (and honestly, is less prepared to take on, than Sec. of State) so he decided to bail out before it was too late to do so. Just think about it.

alcatraz   January 6th, 2009 11:30 am ET

I am extrenally disspaointed on Obama's cabinet. He brought the old Bill Clinton's gang. He wi ll not be able to deliver the changes he promissed. On the contrary the USA democratic system and the public expectations will suffer even more. And to be clear, I am not at a republican by any means..

Gordon Shumway   January 6th, 2009 11:29 am ET

Guess you can not lie to a professional liar and get away with it!

Tom, Cary, NC   January 6th, 2009 11:28 am ET

Anyone who is 'disappointed' over a withdrawal simply because of the perceived ethnic identity of a candidate is by definition a racist – a 'person of bias'. Isn't ability – or in this case – honesty – the key criteria?

Jake in Mission   January 6th, 2009 11:27 am ET

Gov. Richardson got the nod for a cabinet post not because he was hispanic, but because he threw Hillary under the bus to help get Obama elected. And what makes Richardson a Latino anyway, he just throws it out there when its convenient. So much for change in the Obama regime he just reshuffled the same old deck of cards, same old names and same old faces, no new blood!!!!

Larry in Houston   January 6th, 2009 11:26 am ET

He's ben nothing but a traitor from the begining....He invites Bill Clinton to watch the super bowl last year, at his home, and then turns around and ENDORSE OBAMA !!

It's best for him to give up the position.....If he was totally innocent, he would have held his ground, and not worry about that investigation..

To be perfectly honest, I think he's just ticked off, because he was not selected to be S.O.S.

Larry C.
Houston, Texas

naqib   January 6th, 2009 11:22 am ET

Another crooked friend of Obama that he has to throw under the bus... imagine that

HSNP   January 6th, 2009 11:17 am ET

BYE BYE JUDAS

Mark Cross Junction VA   January 6th, 2009 11:15 am ET

Why a disappointment? Just another corrupt politician out to gain whatever they can get!! Send him back across the border where he belongs.

Rick   January 6th, 2009 11:14 am ET

I don't know why he pulled himself out....most corrupt democrats are honered and revered by their party.

Danny from Phoenix   January 6th, 2009 11:14 am ET

Richardson is a sleezeball. Ask anyone who has ever lived in Alburqurque, New Mexico.

RealityKing   January 6th, 2009 11:11 am ET

Hillary, Emanul, Bill, whose next?? So much for the media hyped Obama vetting process..

What a mess   January 6th, 2009 11:11 am ET

boered1 ....??

What's up with the hatred of Clintons? I guess you would have preferred a different world back in the 90's when we had PEACE AND PROSPERITY?

demwit   January 6th, 2009 11:10 am ET

Bill Richardson's is the huge dissappointment..

Allen Farlow   January 6th, 2009 11:07 am ET

Latinos are disappointed by Richardson's withdrawal? Who cares? He withdrew for one reason – he's dirty and he knows he wouldn't survive the vetting.

Latinos only feel they are important because the media keeps trying to get everyone to believe they are. Latinos are a minority and nobody really cares about how the Latinos feel. It's not news.

Hispanic   January 6th, 2009 11:07 am ET

"Maybe they could get some other Mexican for that job...." Wow, wonderful insight. I tried to post something about racism, but CNN wouldn't touch it. I guess they do post such drivel from some readers, eh?

Hispanis in Dallas, TX   January 6th, 2009 11:04 am ET

Just another crook, like all the ones in DC!

Just another "Hispanic"   January 6th, 2009 11:03 am ET

The racism continues...

Scott NYC Independent   January 6th, 2009 11:02 am ET

I'm not of Latino decent but I am ashamed and angered at some of the racist comments made by others that call themselves Americans; those that seem to have forgotten that the only people that are the original residents of this land are Native American Indians. All the rest of us came here by boat or plane and none have the right to put themselves above any others.

Just another "Hispanic"   January 6th, 2009 11:02 am ET

Ah, the racism continues.....

Just another "Hispanic"   January 6th, 2009 11:01 am ET

Ah, the racism continues....thanks fred and anon in big d. Words of derision, words of disillusion...perhaps insight of this caliber should be our guide, hmm?

A Hispanic voter   January 6th, 2009 10:57 am ET

Honestly, I'm not worried if a non-Latino replaces him. I just care about having intelligent people represent ALL Americans and their needs. I voted for Obama because I thought he was the best person for the job, not because of the color of his skin.

People need to stop being so sensitive. Seriously. we should all want was best for this country as a whole.

W.T.Sherman at the sea   January 6th, 2009 10:57 am ET

Bill was vetted to run for President.Lets see what happens.We have a better job lined up for him anyway.Think I will go to Alabama for my vacation and see how toyota is doing.

Baze   January 6th, 2009 10:57 am ET

Shut up Latinos. Would you rather him take the position only to later be found guilty of malfeseance? That would sure make the Latino community look great!

mike   January 6th, 2009 10:55 am ET

Imagine if he is found guilty of the shady dealings. What would be the backlash be if only high ranking hispanic politician seems like one that is dirty in his dealings?
Look at the other politicians that had to pull their name because of some type of speculation. Obama is doing a superb CYA job throughout this entire hiring process. It's pretty simple. If you have any potential shady dealings, pull your name respectfully so that Republicans don't fly in with capes and lawyers to hold up the progression of returning this country to prominence.

naqib   January 6th, 2009 10:55 am ET

Same circus... just new clowns

Kara   January 6th, 2009 10:55 am ET

Someone needs to punch Cindy from NM in the face. She is a disgrace to the human race!

STEVE R   January 6th, 2009 10:55 am ET

annette,

he has pledged to save us all...remember the last two years of his campaign?

however, after jan 20 this chump will not be able to bash or blame Bush, which will be interesting to see how he and the media can spin it. Actually all they have to do is stop with the whole "world is falling" and most everything will be fine.

Mary   January 6th, 2009 10:55 am ET

Bill Richerdson is like the rest of the lieing Democrats, he just got caught, Obama lies, and so hasn't Joe Biden, Nacey pelosie, Barney Frank, Chris Dodd, The politicans are not to be trusted, period, there stealing off the American people, destorting information all the time, there putting our money in the hands of planned parent hood to kill More of our babys in the womb! like 50 million babys weren't enough! since the 1970 t oo the present day that how many Children we killed, now if that not murder I dont know what is, and they want more blood innocent spilled. they will put others in jail for murder, but they want this to be justified, what Goverment Condons, God Has Condemds, God is Watching all that we do, and He is listening to everything we Say.

Steve in Las Vegas,NV   January 6th, 2009 10:53 am ET

Why did Richardson's nomination even get this far without discovering the possibility of corruption? Who didn't vet him completely before he was picked? Looks like someone did not do their job very well!

The Latino community should be happy he got this far, but I'm sure there is another Latino who could picked for a position without a whiff of controversy in their life, so finding that person may take a while. So don't give up hope.

Would anybody want someone who has a cloud over their name to represent them?

Mrs. A.   January 6th, 2009 10:53 am ET

You all need to stop being so judgemetal. Bill hasn't been found guilty and has no history of being corrupt. He is bowing out because he doesn't want to be a distraction. He is doing the right thing and you people are ready to stone him! Probably bitter repubs...

Kara   January 6th, 2009 10:51 am ET

Bwahahahaha! So it seems the "Judas" is also a crook! I used to kinda like Richardson, but after I saw what he did to Hillary and HOW he did it, I realized then he really isn't a decent politician. He is just out for himself. I don't begrudge him in wanting to support Obama, but the WAY he attacked Hillary in doing so? It showed us what a P.O.S. he really is. As they say it all comes out in the wash. So long you smirking JUDAS!!!

You don't know unless you've lived in NM.   January 6th, 2009 10:49 am ET

He's not a good leader. He's arrogant and foolish.

Hispanics should look to someone else.

AJ   January 6th, 2009 10:48 am ET

Tough crap. No one should be appointed to a cabinet post based on race.

TheTruthHurts   January 6th, 2009 10:48 am ET

I could be absolutely wrong, but I think there is something else going on here.

Mickie   January 6th, 2009 10:48 am ET

So many bitter republicans out there. Anyone who is even investigated, let alone convicted, of any wrongdoing is automatically Obama's corruption. This whole system is corrupt and anyone who has kept blinders on through the past 8 years and thinks a "no bid" contract is bad when it's the state's representative, how about Bush/Cheney with the private mercenaries in Iraq getting paid 10+ times what the soldiers receive for basically doing nothing and getting away with killing people, not to mention Haliburton. We need to get disconnected from "party identification cultism". This people in this country are becoming like those who followed Jim Jones.

Lauren the Designer   January 6th, 2009 10:48 am ET

Fred in KY January 6th, 2009 9:54 am ET
Maybe they could get some other Mexican for that job

--------------------------------

Way to uphold Kentucky's stellar record of racial tolerance.

And cue all the whiners blaming this on Obama. Richardson has not been found of any wrongdoing. I'm sure this was a difficult decision for him, but I think he deserves kudos for doing the right thing here and backing off so that things can move forward in a timely manner. Maybe if he is cleared of any wrongdoing, a place can still be found for him in the administration (I personally like him very much).

Other politicians could learn a lesson from him. (For example: Sarah Palin continuing on as the VP nom when she was involved in that scandal in Alaska....so soon the Republicans forget...)

JM   January 6th, 2009 10:46 am ET

Another one bites the dust.

CanIcallyouJoe   January 6th, 2009 10:45 am ET

Well, he took himself out of the race, so there's not really any issue of his heritage being the cause – although that won't stop people from trying.

From what I understand, Richardson is highly favored in his state for the work he has done there. If there is any cloud of wrongdoing over his work – ala Blago – it's not saying that it's ok to do that sort of thing and that a punishment is needed if any wrongdoing is found, but at least he acknowledged the results and got himself out of any place where a scandal could damage the governmental process.

I'd like to see a vast increase in the amount of ethnic diversity in both The House and The Senate.

Nikki   January 6th, 2009 10:45 am ET

I am shocked at the racial comments posted on this article...CNN shame on you for posting them!! People would like to think that you all are objective and will at least OMIT racial slurs!!! I can't believe the some of the comments I've read so far!!!

boered1   January 6th, 2009 10:40 am ET

Amazing that no one is crying about the liar hillary's deals while she "served" in NY I am talking about the money given to her husband right after she changed her mind on contractors to build malls in upstate NY. this is not just hatred of the liar hillary talking this is truth look it up! Richardson has done NOTHING wrong, he is simply under investigation, as are many of the sitting representatives and as are most at some time (the liar hillary still has an outstanding court case but shhh we dont talk about that) but at least Richardson ahd the curtesy to not give the republicans something to attack Obama on during his first months in office.. the liar hillary will eventually NOT recieve the post as her past will ahunt her, or if the senate does fail to do their job she will (hopefully) get fired for incompentency within the first 6 months!

idiots

alfredo   January 6th, 2009 10:40 am ET

I'm a Latino, and frankly i don't really like Richardson, he was my fourth choice for president after Kucinich.

Sabreen60   January 6th, 2009 10:39 am ET

You Obama haters need to get a life. He won, get over it. If you truly love this country you will want only the best for this administration. We're on this "ship" together.

Brian – You need to get therapy.

Michael M, Phoenix AZ   January 6th, 2009 10:38 am ET

To Brian: Bush WAS corruption!

Kevin - IN   January 6th, 2009 10:37 am ET

I hope this is cleared soon enough, and he is still appointed.

robertkjjj   January 6th, 2009 10:36 am ET

Yes, and and as we all know, "Richardson" is a very common name in the Latino community. Here in San Diego, we have a whole chain of little Mexican food restaurants named "Richardsons", and my gardener and housekeeper both have that last name.
So, this is a sad development.

Troy from NJ   January 6th, 2009 10:35 am ET

Dear Daniel Cabrera of Merrillville, indiana,

Are you kidding me! 8 years of GW Bush and you republicans still dont get it. We were attacked on 9/11 beacuse your guy was asleep at the helm; he got us in a Boondogle of a war we cant get out of; didnt complete his attack on the people who attacked us, now we have to go fight that war; almost help wipe out an entire US city, and now a economy on the brink of a depression; outing a CIA agent, and dang near destroying our constitution. The people of Indiana wanted change, last time I checked Obama won that State. If you want more of the same, move to Iraq and you will be surrounded by the memories of a Bush Presidency.

Troy from NJ.

Tim   January 6th, 2009 10:32 am ET

Obama's judgement of character needs to be called into question. He apparently can't read a person's character, even after knowing them for 20 years.

Annette   January 6th, 2009 10:30 am ET

Get over it and move on, we have much more difficult and pressing issues to discuss. President Obama will not be able to please every single person in the US.

anonymous in Big D   January 6th, 2009 10:30 am ET

Of course the mexican community likes Richardson – he helps with the illegals! He's just another political crook and needs to be exposed for what he is. Thank goodness he wasn't already in office. Nobama better watch out – he's on the way to "nothing new" instead of "change" he preached and all the idiot democRATS bought! Change my eye!

carlo   January 6th, 2009 10:30 am ET

I don't think a lot of people realize the magnitude of corruption in politics that Obama has often spoken of. It is so widespread that I doubt that there are but a handful of honest, intelligent and decent appointees to choose from. That's why Obama is having such a hard time with Cabinet selections. That is why Feinstein and Reid are so upset about Panetta, who spoke out against their siding with Bush on every single war policy on his agenda. That's the biggest concern on the Hill-that Obama will appoint people who have corrective capabilities, and not people recommended by the same fools who got us into this mess. It took America over 500 years to get into the politically corrupted mess we're in, and it will take longer than 8 years to get us out.

Jonita   January 6th, 2009 10:29 am ET

PE Obama stays clean because he hasn't done anything wrong...This is Richardson's scandal not the PE.William Ayers commited crimes when the PE was eight years old and somehow he is responsible?as for Blago and the rest these are there scandals and the PE remains above it because they have nothing on him.....This is America and because I know someone who is scandal wriiten it doesn't make me or anybody else guilty simply because we know them.....

arc, Lugano CH   January 6th, 2009 10:29 am ET

Larry of Boston January 6th, 2009 9:52 am ET
Meanwhile, Federal investigators have found thousands of stolen hub caps in the Governor's mansion.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Did a 'minority' steal your hubcabs? What else did a 'minority' steal from you? Did a 'minority' steal your job? Did a 'minority' steal your racial purity birthright? So much has been stolen from you. It's a wonder you get out of bed every morning.

God Bless you for doing so.

Tim   January 6th, 2009 10:29 am ET

Circus music, circus music, I love circus music.

chris (hartford, ct)   January 6th, 2009 10:28 am ET

We should pick the best person for the job, regardless of who they are. I liked Richardson and thought he'd be a good VP candidate as well, but the idea that we need to have every crayon in the box as part of the new administration is ridiculous. People are diverse and they come in more than 3 colors. I mean, where's my representation? I'm a 27 yr old married home owner with a stable job watching my future get sold out so the corporate officers of AIG can keep the party going. Where's the "Under 30 Czar" ?

Ann   January 6th, 2009 10:27 am ET

If Latinos are upset only now, maybe they should consider a lot of the other non Latinos who were disgusted with his behavior in throwing Hillary Clinton under the proverbial bus to jump on the Obama bandwagon which appeared to be nothing but an opportunistic move to advance his own career especially when it was mentioned he hoped to possibly be the VP choice. My disgust right now is that this investigation is nothing new so why did he accept the position in the first place?

Cindy in NM   January 6th, 2009 10:25 am ET

Richardson does not appear to be involved in shady dealings. At least he has enough forsight and integrity to not accept the appointment. He is far more qualified than Hilliary Clinton to be the sec of state but that was a dope deal that Clinton bought his wife. I believe that Hilliary has a conflict with the "donations" that Bill recieved for his library and charities while she was a NY senator (mall contracts, etc). Hilliary Clinton has a vast amount of improprieties in her record from the time she was the first lady of AR, first lady of the US, and NY senator. Lets see do you think she would have the courtesy to resign and not make fodder for Obama?? I think not. As for Bill Richardson is a role model for all of our state's people not just the Hispanic community.

Ghost   January 6th, 2009 10:25 am ET

My goodness!!! And they say black folk have a sense of entitlement.

No disrespect to hispanc people, but give me a break. The man appointed three hispanics, one fell off. And you have the nerve to complain? Richardson should've gotten a higher appointment? Based on what? Being hispanic?

OC   January 6th, 2009 10:24 am ET

There are many other well qualified Latino politicians with integrity who don't have the spotlight Richardson has.

Brian   January 6th, 2009 10:23 am ET

Obama= culture of corruption!

Nora L in CA   January 6th, 2009 10:23 am ET

Good Riddens to JUDAS.

Anyone who betrays old friends cannot be trusted.

Richardson is the one who said Super Delegates should support the winner of their state, even though Hillary Clinton won the New Mexico primary and even though Bill Clinton gave Richardson every opportunity in life – he turned around and endorsed Obama at a time that hurt the Clinton campaign.

He cannot be trusted – even Obama can see that.

I hope the good people of NM get rid of this Judas.

dan in NM   January 6th, 2009 10:23 am ET

Don't dismay – Richardson just landed the role of Ralph Kramden on the new "Honeymooners". He'll attain new symbols of high office, including the coveted racoon hat, and gold epaulets. The only people who should be disappointed are the people of New Mexico – we all thought we had finally gotten rid of "The Great One" (bam – zoom – to the moon !)

Don Woolsey   January 6th, 2009 10:21 am ET

Another administration, new faces of corruption

8 years is enough   January 6th, 2009 10:21 am ET

Cabrera ,Daniel where did you get your degree in knowing everything ? NOT
You must be able to see Putin from your front porch ?

proudliberal-independent   January 6th, 2009 10:20 am ET

i'm not latino, but, i am disappointed. he was one of the few picks i liked, until Panetta and the new intelligence team was announced.

Cindy Shaffer   January 6th, 2009 10:18 am ET

The Latinos should be more careful whom they support. Richardson turned out to be a snake, although a grinning one. He supported Hillary all the way until Obama offered him a cabinet position for his support. And now, we see that Obama and Richardson knew all along about Richardson's legal problems but Obama appointed him anyway and got burned. Personally, I have liked Richardson who seems like a reasonable democrat, but, you see, even democrats can be deceiving for political reasons.

a new year   January 6th, 2009 10:17 am ET

i hope he will be cleared of any wrong doing.

Frank   January 6th, 2009 10:15 am ET

I don't blame Hispanics for wanting increased representation and visibility, but in this case we should all direct our disappointment at Richardson himself.

EMJ   January 6th, 2009 10:15 am ET

Nestor, hey in case you missed it the election and all the silly season distractions are over so move on. I'm in Chicago and we know the guilt by asociation names you list are not as bad as the national media organizations like FOX want you to believe. Please, please list a single illegal action taken by President Obama. Let me guess, you still think Obama is a secret Muslim out to destroy America as well as the Anti-Christ right? Tony Rezko, what law did Obama break? Fr. Pfleger made some snide comments about Hillary Clinton. What's the crime there? What law has he broken? Although you won't, think of a bad statement or crime someone you have met or might know slightly has made and then tell us if you are responsible for their actions? Politicians meet tons of people throughout there careers and I don't they they should be held accountable for any illegal action or comments you don't seem to like made by those people he or she meets. It's like that Kevin Bacon linkage thing. I'm sure Obama is tied somehow to Kevin Bacon.

clifford   January 6th, 2009 10:14 am ET

I remember picking strawberries with the Puerto Rican's on my grandpa's farm!!

Howard   January 6th, 2009 10:12 am ET

My goodness, neither Blogajevich nor Richardson have been found guilty of anything. Let's let the indictiments be handed down and trials take place first. While I am not feeling any change right now ,maybe Barack Obama will surprise everyone. After Bush he has a very low bar to reach. Let's at least give the man a chance to take office first before we start in on him.

Austin, Texas   January 6th, 2009 10:12 am ET

Nestor from Austin, Tx:

The race is over an we won. If you continue to surround yourself with jealousy and vicous lies, you are only making life harder for your family, friends, and yourself. Give the President Elect an opportunity to put this country back on track and stop continuing to try and find ways to bash him!

I will continue to pray for you and those who don't believe in our new President. Let's pray for him everyday, he has a difficult task at hand.

Signed, Stay focused...

Sweetie   January 6th, 2009 10:12 am ET

Obama and his team are showing very bad judgement with their selections for the new administration.

Latinos are not the only folks that are disapointed.

Can we have a re-do? I would like to change my vote.

Larry   January 6th, 2009 10:12 am ET

Typical Democrat–Being investigated for NO ethics,Obama administration didn't even know this was coming after they investigated before nominating him,what if Richardson had been a terrorist,they wouldn't know that either,SCARY !!

Laverne   January 6th, 2009 10:12 am ET

To Nestor, Austin, TX: Yes, Jeremiah Wright was his pastor. However, just because you know someone does not mean that they are your friend and anybody that say differently is RIGHT OUT LYING! If these are the only people Obama happen to know that are not to your standing then he is doing pretty good. I consider myself pretty much on the up and up when it comes to choosing people I consider a friend, but I must say I know a whole lot of people who are not necessarily ideal citizens and I do not consider them my friend. Maybe you don't kow the definition of friend which is "A PERSON WHOM ONE KNOWS, LIKES and TRUSTS.

Matt   January 6th, 2009 10:11 am ET

@ PatC

The distinction is that the evidence isn't as blatant as something like taped conversations...i.e., this guy deserves the benefit of the reasonable doubt, whereas Blago does not.

Geno   January 6th, 2009 10:10 am ET

All this talk about Obama owes these groups or this group.... BLAH. The only reason Obama considered Richardson is because he probably let the pressure get to him and wanted to "please" everyone. I'm a Hispanic, honorably discharged Marine and I'd rather have someone who is qualified versus someone who was "owed" the position. Imagine what a bigger letdown if Richardson actually won the Presidency or Secretary of State. All this stupid talk that Obama or anyone owes Latinos, blacks, or whatever, needs to stop. This is why racism will never go away, thanks to narrow minded people who feel they are entitled to things.

Bill Charlotte,NC   January 6th, 2009 10:09 am ET

It also disappoints Anglos.

mike   January 6th, 2009 10:09 am ET

justice for the judas

Seattle has bluest sky   January 6th, 2009 10:09 am ET

Whats up?What is our Gov. doing in Wa. D.C.?????????

Frank   January 6th, 2009 10:08 am ET

What is really disappointing is to see so many hateful postings here.

If Governor Richardson has done something wrong, he is unlikely to get away with it.

If, however, he is cleared of any wrong-doing, there may be opportunities for him in the future. Right now, that's what his supporters (and people of good conscience generally) should hope for.

The rest of you need to develop a more civil attitude toward those with whom you disagree. Remember, the shoe is going to be on the other foot eventually.

Sanity has returned   January 6th, 2009 10:08 am ET

I wish you people would get over your sour grapes. Gov Richardson is innocent until proven guilty and he did the right thing by stepping away from the nomination. It must really stink to be many of you with your negative attitudes and thoughts. I don't know how some of you get through your day with such a nasty outlook on anything and everything. Don't you folks work?

arc, Lugano CH   January 6th, 2009 10:06 am ET

Fred in KY January 6th, 2009 9:54 am ET
Maybe they could get some other Mexican for that job
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Did a 'Mexican' take your job? If so, good. Hope you lose your house.

Fred, you're just another Uneducated Poor White Trash Bigot 'Country First' Coward with a Computer.

Ohio for Obama- Suburbs   January 6th, 2009 10:05 am ET

To Daniel Cabrera, you must really dislike Obama because I've notice everything you have posted sounded like an MCcain supporter or Hillary supporter. What would have your choice for President have done? I doubt anything different from what Obama is trying to do.

OHIO for OBAMA

Lets have the truth   January 6th, 2009 10:04 am ET

Daniel Cabrera its to bad you were not elected president since you think you know everything " NOT "

Carole   January 6th, 2009 10:04 am ET

He probably has a long record of a few other not so good things, ha ha. None of this comes as any surprise – he is a snake. Stay tooned folks!!

Brett   January 6th, 2009 10:02 am ET

too bad!

Lisa B   January 6th, 2009 10:00 am ET

This is one jagged little pill Latinos are just going to have to swallow. Richardson made his bed and now is going to have to lie in it. (Move over Blago!) If there is any Latino heartburn it needs to be with Richardson instead of blaming Obama.
Right now the Obama team needs to worry about a fully qualified replacement Latino or not!

dee   January 6th, 2009 9:58 am ET

This Latina is not disappointed. Not in the least.

john   January 6th, 2009 9:57 am ET

I think that Richardson was not a good pick from the start so I'm glad to see him go. For quite some time I've had my doubts about his honesty, it just seemed that there was something off about his dealings over the years but he was not a big enough fish to warrant an investigation but as a cabinet member he would be under greater scrutiny. Evidently he could see a bigger investigation coming and had enough sense to step down. I hope that a better pick for this cabinet post can be made.

TexAnnie *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*   January 6th, 2009 9:57 am ET

Those are some pretty racist comments some of you people have made. No wonder we still have a divide between people in this country when we have such bigots as you guys posting.

Tim   January 6th, 2009 9:55 am ET

Yes...let's keep the races divided by constantly forming special interest groups to remind people that we're "special" and not just all americans. Let's keep it going. My race...your race...our race.....
No wonder racism is still so alive and well. There are so many people making a living off of it. Including the media..

Terry   January 6th, 2009 9:54 am ET

It was appropriate for Richardson to withdraw because of the investigation. The Obama Administration must be above reproach. Conservatives will do anything to discredit the incoming administration.

Richardson was my first choice for president during the campaign. Obama was my fifth, after Edwards, Biden, and Clinton.

I hope Richardson is innocent of any wrongdoing, but I personally don't like governors taking campaign contributions from state contractors.

Fred in KY   January 6th, 2009 9:54 am ET

Maybe they could get some other Mexican for that job

Chase   January 6th, 2009 9:52 am ET

Well...whether you liked him or not is not really relevant, but they seem to be forgetting Alberto Gonzales.

Larry of Boston   January 6th, 2009 9:52 am ET

Meanwhile, Federal investigators have found thousands of stolen hub caps in the Governor's mansion.

daniel cabrera   January 6th, 2009 9:51 am ET

And by the way not only the latino-factor is an error on Obama's movements, there is 'more of the same' on his dynamics,....a lot of poor judgement like for example the new CIA apointee:

It does not matters if there is experience or not.Obama does not have any and so to compensate for that is building a pathetic cabinet with ALL OF THE SAME CLINTON-MATERIAL.(So nothing really is for the so called 'CHANGE')
So, why not to get a 'young padawan'here and there?
I believe the idea is to make believe something is going to be done, although nobody has a clue about what to do
And that is political movement for you!

Sincerely,
Daniel Cabrera
Merrillville, indiana

Nestor, Austin, TX   January 6th, 2009 9:46 am ET

It's too bad that the president and CEO of the National Council of The Race is disappointed. It's also too bad that Bill Richardson is involved in shady dealings. Yet somehow the president-elect stays clean from all of these scandals. He is just a 'poor victim' of being surrounded by a whole bunch of crooks. There's a saying that goes something like; "Tell me who your friends are, and I'll tell you who you are." Tony Rezko, Jeremiah Wright, Rod Blagojevich, Fr. Pfleger, Louis Farrakhan, William Ayers, Bill Richardson, etc. These are the friends of the president-elect. I hope he gets some new friends.

Irritated in Fl   January 6th, 2009 9:44 am ET

He's a well recognized crook is all that he is. I think he makes a very poor represenative for the Hispanics.

PatC   January 6th, 2009 9:43 am ET

I hate to see bad to anybody, but IF it is found to be true that he is a corrupt politician with a Blago style Pay to Play Scheme, then the Hispanic community needs to throw him under the proverbial bus. Don't stand behind convicted criminals.

As far as all other Democrats where is the cry for him to resign as Governor and for the NM Legislative to begin impeachment hearings. He must be held to the same standard as Blago.

Case Closed   January 6th, 2009 9:38 am ET

Obama selected the highest profile Latino in national politics for a prominent position ... it just didn't work out at the present time ... don't blame him.

I predict we'll have a Latina considered for the US Supreme Court if one can be found with sufficient legal credentials and bench experience. Hispanic Americans will just have to be patient.

Mike, Syracuse NY   January 6th, 2009 9:34 am ET

So guess what. We will now have the Latinos demanding that his replacement be Latino, just like blacks are demanding the IL Senate seat be filled with a black, and the NY Senate seat be filled by a woman, etc., etc. Whatever happened to appointing people based on qualifications and not race or gender?

Robert the Man   January 6th, 2009 9:32 am ET

Carlos Mencia would do a better job than this guy. Seriously I think he really would.

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