EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Bill Richardson, a titan of New Mexico politics, died on Saturday, the think tank that he founded and led reported.
Richard served as governor of Mexico from 2003 to 2011, but he before that he had gained a national stature as a a congressman representing northern New Mexico and serving as energy secretary and U.N. ambassador during the Clinton administration.
Here are what people are saying about Richardson.
President Joe Biden:
“Bill Richardson wore many weighty titles in his life – Congressman, Governor, Ambassador, Secretary. He seized every chance to serve and met every new challenge with joy, determined to do the most good for his country, his beloved New Mexico, and Americans around the world. Few have served our nation in as many capacities or with as much relentlessness, creativity, and good cheer. He will be deeply missed.
“Bill’s legacy will endure in many places – in New Mexico, which Bill served for seven terms as congressman and two as governor; at the Department of Energy, where he helped strengthen America’s nuclear security; and at the United Nations, where he put his considerable negotiating skills to work advocating for American interests and values on the world stage.
“But perhaps his most lasting legacy will be the work Bill did to free Americans held in some of the most dangerous places on Earth. American pilots captured by North Korea, American workers held by Saddam Hussein, Red Cross workers imprisoned by Sudanese rebels – these are just some of the dozens of people that Bill helped bring home. He’d meet with anyone, fly anywhere, do whatever it took. The multiple Nobel Peace Prize nominations he received are a testament to his ceaseless pursuit of freedom for Americans. So is the profound gratitude that countless families feel today for the former governor who helped reunite them with their loved ones.
“Bill and I crossed paths for the first time decades ago, when he was a staffer on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, which I served on as Senator. Over the years, I saw firsthand his passion for politics, love for America, and unflagging belief that, with respect and good faith, people can come together across any difference, no matter how vast. He was a patriot and true original, and will not be forgotten. Jill and I send our love to his family, including his wife of over 50 years, Barbara, and their daughter Heather.”
Former Vice President Al Gore via X.
“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.”
New Mexico Governor 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.”
NM Lt. Gov. Howie Morales via X social media:
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Bill Richardson, a giant in the history of our state. I am forever grateful for his friendship, all the work he did to improve the lives of regular New Mexicans, and the opportunity he gave me by appointing me to a Senate seat in 2008.”
Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima via X:
“I am saddened to hear that my good friend, recently nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, has passed away. This is a massive loss for our state, country, and the world. He worked tirelessly
to help free hostages around the globe. He was a former Congressman, UN Ambassador, Governor and U.S. Presidential candidate. Vaya con Dios mi amigo, Abrazo.”
NM State Sen. Joe Cervantes via X:
“I learned most of what I know of governing from Bill Richardson. An incredible force, indomitable politician and one of the few true leaders in politics I’ve been privileged to serve alongside. We will miss him and the work he had left in him.”
TV newsman Dan Rather via X:
“Bill Richardson was a skilled politician, gifted diplomat, and good guy. He was determined and deliberate. Rising to prominence in his native New Mexico, he became a respected figure on the world stage. Over the years, he brought many Americans detained overseas back home. He was a symbol of hope and resolve. May he rest in peace.”
Domingo Garcia, LULAC national president:
“I first met Gov. Bill Richardson in 1984 at the National Democratic convention when I was leading the Hispanic caucus to abstain on the first presidential ballot unless the Democratic presidential candidates supported amnesty for immigrants. Bill pulled me aside. I was 26 years old then, introduced himself as a congressman from New Mexico and gave me some lessons on how to win the issue. Which we did with the passage of an immigration bill in 1986. After that, he was a friend and mentor. He was a great leader for New Mexico and for Latinos in general. Our condolences to his family and the New Mexico community.”
The Democratic Party of New Mexico:
“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.”
“It is a sad day for New Mexico Democrats as we remember the life and mourn the passing of Governor Bill Richardson. Governor Richardson was a larger-than-life public figure who always put public service first. As a Congressman, Ambassador, Secretary of Energy, Diplomat, and Governor, he had many roles throughout his legendary career as a statesman, but we will always remember him foremost as someone who was always eager to help people and loved New Mexico. Our thoughts are with his family and everyone who knew him at this time.”
U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury, D-NM:
“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.”
NM Speaker of the House Javier Martinez:
“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.”
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.”
Gilberto Hinojosa, chair of the Texas Democratic Party:
“Bill was a friend to me and to every Texas Democrat he ever met. He was proud of where he came from and was always honored to serve his people and the United States. He’s left behind the legacy of a giant, and paved the way for Mexican-Americans to run for – and win – higher office. He was a trailblazer, a statesman, and a damn good Democrat. My friend, Bill, will be sorely missed.”
