[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2008/images/11/21/art.richardsonhand1121.gi.jpg caption="After dropping out of the presidential race, New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, who had worked in Bill Clinton's administration, endorsed Barack Obama."]
CHICAGO, Illinois (CNN) - Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico is a serious contender for commerce secretary in the Obama administration, two sources close to the transition said Friday.
The same sources, however, cautioned that Richardson could be tapped for another senior post as well. They do not consider Richardson's appointment to the Commerce Department to be a done deal.
Richardson, 61, was a candidate for the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination. Currently in his second term as New Mexico's governor, he previously served as ambassador to the United Nations and energy secretary in the Clinton administration.
it's obvious that Obama is going to use him as another sounding board on diplomatic affairs until he can be confident that Hillary is on message.
Another chapter.....what else is new???????????
so many leaks now. I wonder who's doing it.
I just wonder why all the leak's? During Obama's campaign, nothing was leaked. Seems to me this is a calculated by his team to see what type of response he gets prior to actually making the formal announcement. I still don't get it though.
people stop hatin...let Obama do what he think is best, cause if it dont work he can fire people and their rep. would be screwed.
what is his background in commerce?
great pick
frankly, I think all these democratic governors need to stay with their states – we're gonna need them there to help enact change across the country! I think Obama should be looking for people who are not currently holding government posts.... but hey, that's just me!
Richardson is the best, he would be great in any post he is selected for.
GREAT JOB for Governor Richardson, he's perfect for the job.
Richardson would make a great secretary of state, He can handle the mean guys so well and they like and respect him! Hillary has too much luggage!
Another Stellar Choice By The Soon To Be Best President Ever!
Obama's putting together a competent team. How refreshing.
Gov Richardson deserves a high post in Pres. Elect Obama's administration!!! And I'm watching, reading and listening to see when that announcement is going to be made!!
I'd hope for Sec of State but it appeara that isn;t going to happen but he'll do well in whatever position he's chosen for........
Good luck Gov Richardson!!!!!
CJ in FL, Do you the want new adminstration to offer jobs based on Merit or do you want it offererd based on who you know (the patronage system)? Look no futher at the Bush administration's result if you chose the later...
Obama Victim: If Obama picked a bunch of new faces, you say, "See he's so inexperienced, he doesn't even know how to pick people that can get things done." You would never be happy, so why not just hibernate for the next 8 years while the rest of us actually accomplish something. It's the policy that represents a change, not all of the players, and even they are a change from the disastrous Bush regime. Or are you among the 6.7% of Americans who belileve that Bush has done a good job?
Due to the abuses of the past 8 years, we need the smartest, most dedicated and well rounded people available to help get things on back track. My sense is that no matter what the department there is plenty of direction needed. Now is the time for all good men (and women) to come to the aid of their country.
Richardson deserves Secretary of State after what he did in Korea. If someone isn't familiar with it, you should google it. He is well respected internationally and obviously is doing something right. He won't get it because of Clinton but it should be him.
Kerry deserves something too.
The only reason I want Hillary in any Cabinet position is that Barack will be her boss and she will have less power than if she was in the Senate. The man is dumb like a fox!
I'd would have much rather seen a Richardson Sec. of State, however the name Clinton commands respect worlwide and as long as Obama keeps her in check it'll work out fine.
By the way I am so sick of Republican haters. Every Single One of You is closed minded and bitter. ALWAYS tearing people down. Just because it's not a Repub in the White House you are fine with sitting on your hands and actually hoping that this nation gets worse just so you can say "see we told you Obama and Dems are no good!" Like I tell the people at the office...if it's that important get involved and do something. You have lots of gripes but ZERO answers, same as your guys Rush and Hannity. Why do you think they sit behind a mic. a jabber hate...because if they had real answers the would have run for office and done something. You guys wear me out.
And yet another Clinton-era persona. Yay!
Where's the change.
Richardson would make a better S of S than Hillary.
Hillary as S of S? I really don’t think this is a wise choice, simply because unlike McCain, Hillary has difficulty being led and being a team player.
With the Clinton's penchant for drama, my fear is that with Clinton's foreign money making activities curtailed because Hillary is S of S, Bill might get bored and start paying attention to other women. If that happens, the Democrats should forget 2010 and 2012.
Give me a break guys i think Hillary will do better as secretary of state after all she worked so hard to unite the democratic party after the convention.
He's young enough to be the first Hispanic president in eight years! Go, Bill!
Yes, i love this guy!