2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Bill Richardson At First Democratic Presidential Debate

Governor Bill Richardson At First Democratic Presidential Debate

ORANGEBURG, SC - The reviews are in following the first Democratic Presidential debate last night in Orangeburg, South Carolina. New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson showed why his extensive diplomatic and foreign policy experience and accomplishments as a Congressman, US Ambassador to the United Nations, Energy Secretary, and two-term Governor make him the best qualified candidate for President.

Debates like this give candidates the opportunity to showcase their experience and abilities and allow the public to evaluate their ability to be President based on substance, not on hype or popularity polls.

During the 90 minute debate Governor Richardson defined the differences with the other Presidential candidates on a number of critical issues facing America:

IRAQ WAR
"This war is a disaster. We must end this war.

This is what I would do if I were president today. I would withdraw all of our troops, including residual troops, by the end of this calendar year. I would use the leverage of that withdrawal, coupled with intensive diplomacy in three areas: One, a political framework led by the United States where the three religious entities in Iraq have a coalition government, divide oil revenues, and possibly set up three separate entities.

Number two, I would convene a security conference, and I would invite Iran and Syria. They're going to be tough, and we should be tough with them. But we have to have an international peacekeeping effort.

And thirdly, I would have a donor conference. I would have other countries take over the reconstruction responsibility and the security of Iraq."

HEALTHCARE
"In our health care plan, my new health care plan, no new bureaucracy. Every American shares, along with businesses, the state and the federal government. I would focus on prevention. I would also ensure that the first thing we do is deal with bureaucracy and inefficiencies in our health care system. Thirty-one percent of our health care goes to inefficiencies in bureaucracy. If we had a health information system where doctors and nurses could share information about health care, we would save billions of dollars. I would also make sure that we would reestablish the doctor-patient relationship, eliminate those in the middle like HMOs and others.

But my plan, I believe, would focus on prevention. We need to focus more on deterring these diseases like diabetes that is 30 percent of our Medicare cost."

And the Governor believes we can institute Universal Healthcare without raising taxes.

FOREIGN POLICY
"My precepts in foreign policy are this. I think this president characterizes this. Being stubborn isn't a foreign policy, and power without diplomacy is blind. I would focus my presidency on dealing with the real threats to America -- international terrorism, nuclear proliferation. I've dealt directly with North Korea... I would deal with issues like Darfur. Why is it that America does not care about Africa, about genocide, about issues relating to enormous amount of deaths that are brought forth by international poverty?"

Governor Richardson strongly opposes any effort to limit the number of Presidential primary debates and believes this is the best way for the American people to accurately evaluate the candidates.

"I am also looking forward to future debates where we can discuss important domestic concerns that my administration would address- education, immigration, growing our economy, and helping America's middle class."

Bill Richardson Calls First Democratic Presidential Debate An Opportunity To Take On The "Leaders"

Governor Bill Richardson Calls First Democratic Presidential Debate an Opportunity to Take on the "Leaders"

Governor Bill Richardson today urged Americans to watch tomorrow’s Democratic Presidential debate, saying it will help move the primary discussion from a media popularity contest to an honest discussion of issues and experience.  The debate is scheduled for tomorrow at 7 p.m. EDT in South Carolina.

“This will be the first chance for Americans to see all of the Democratic candidates together and to see who is the most qualified and best prepared to be President on day one,” said Governor Richardson. “We won’t be debating the poll numbers, we’ll be debating and stating our opinion on real issues, and people will see a difference.  There are important differences in the qualifications and accomplishments of the candidates.  They’ll see that I would get our troops out of Iraq, all of our troops, with no residual forces.  I’ve been there, I know the region, and I know our presence is no longer helping.  They’ll see that I believe we can provide universal health coverage for all Americans without raising taxes. In New Mexico I expanded access to health care while cutting taxes.  They’ll see how I plan to help the American middle-class prosper, and how I believe we can improve our schools and give every child the opportunity to go to college or vocational school. This is the best and brightest field of Democratic candidates ever, but there are real differences that people need to know before they make up their minds.”

The debate is being held at South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, South Carolina.  It will be broadcast live on MSNBC on Thursday from 7-8:30 p.m. EDT.  It will also be shown live on MSNBC.com.

"Life's Work" Bill Richardson 2008 TV Ad

"Life's Work" :60 Bill Richardson 2008 TV Ad Transcript

"He’s been nominated four times for the Nobel Peace Prize … freeing American hostages held by some of the world’s worst dictators. One of America’s “Best Governors” … He has “more international experience than just about anyone else in the 2008 field.”

But what would Bill Richardson do differently to heal America and our restore our place in the world? His life’s work has been bringing people together … through patient, determined diplomacy … and governing with humor and high expectations.

In New Mexico, he’s used tax cuts to reward companies that put people to work. Helping create over 80,000 new jobs. Up to sixth in the nation for job growth. And no other state has done as much to promote renewable energy and fight global warming.

He has an optimism shaped by the American West that our leaders can meet in good faith and achieve great things ... Because he’s done it so many times before.

I'm Bill Richardson and I approve this message."

"The Wall" Bill Richardson 2008 TV Ad

"The Wall" :30 Bill Richardson 2008 TV Ad Transcript

"I’m Bill Richardson … and I learned a long time ago that the first step in any negotiation is to reach across the wall.

We need to start at home. As president, I'll work with both parties to finally start healing this country.

And we can help heal Iraq by bringing all of our troops home within a year. Our presence there isn’t helping. Only then can the hard diplomatic work really begin.

I approved this message because being stubborn isn’t a foreign policy. "

Governor Bill Richardson Is First Democratic Presidential Candidate On The Air In Iowa And New Hampshire

Governor Bill Richardson is First Democratic Presidential Candidate on the Air in Iowa and New Hampshire
Ads showcase Richardson's unparalleled experience and strong position on getting all US troops out of Iraq within a year

SANTA FE, NM- New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson announced today that, starting next Monday, he will be the first Democratic candidate for president to begin running television advertising in the crucial states of Iowa and New Hampshire.

"We wanted to begin talking with as many voters as possible about why I'm running," Richardson said. The ads also present his position as the only Democratic candidate calling for a complete troop withdrawal from Iraq within a year's time, because "being stubborn isn't a foreign policy."

"This election is really unlike any other in our country's history," Richardson went on to say. "We have to repair the damage done here at home and to our reputation abroad. The first step in that process is acquainting voters with what I've done in my life and how I've approached the job of governing a state and negotiating with foreign leaders. But in the end, this election will not be about me. It will be about the people of this country and who they trust to begin the healing process we so dearly need."

Governor Richardson's record of success is unique in the Democratic field and the television ads capture the breadth and significance of his work. The sixty second introductory commercial "Life's Work" highlights his four Nobel Peace Prize nominations for freeing hostages held by some of the world's worst dictators, his status as one of America's "best Governors," and answers the question "What would Bill Richardson do differently to heal America and restore our place in the world?"

"Life's Work" details his record of success at helping create over 80,000 jobs in New Mexico through targeted tax cuts that reward job creation, vaulting the state up to sixth in the nation for job growth. The commercial also focuses on New Mexico's unique status as the state that's done more to promote renewable energy and fight global warming than any other state.

The second commercial, a thirty second spot entitled "The Wall," presents Governor Richardson's philosophy of governing and diplomatic relations using the metaphor of an ancient stone wall in a farm field. In his words, "I learned a long time ago that the first step in any negotiation is to reach across the wall."

The commercial highlights Governor Richardson's belief that the healing process must begin with a president willing to work with both parties, and goes on to say that "We can help heal Iraq by pulling all of our troops out within a year. Our presence there isn't helping."

The commercials will begin running Monday, April 23rd on broadcast affiliates and cable systems reaching voters in Iowa and New Hampshire, and were produced by Steve Murphy and Mark Putnam of Murphy Putnam Media in Alexandria, Virginia.

Bill Richardson On Supreme Court Decision On Abortion Ban

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson Calls Supreme Court Decision on Abortion Ban a "Dangerous Step Backward"

SANTA FE, NM- New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson's today joined with Americans across the country in criticizing the US Supreme Court decision in the Federal Abortion Ban cases.

"Today the Supreme Court took a dangerous step backward in regard to Americans' rights to personal choice and privacy," said Governor Richardson. "In doing so, the Court disregarded the opinion of experienced and respected medical professionals who oppose the ban because there are no exceptions protecting women's health. While not unexpected, I believe this unfortunate decision is a clear signal that the Supreme Court is opening the door to further challenges to personal medical decisions between patients and doctors that should not involve the government."

Governor Richardson has consistently opposed any attempt to limit women's reproductive rights, and as a Congressman voted against similar proposed bans and restrictions on a number of occasions. "I am concerned, as Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg stated so clearly in her dissenting opinion, that this vote could be the beginning of 'an effort to chip away a right declared again and again by this court'," added the Governor. I sincerely hope that is not the case."

Bill Richardson Announces New Hampshire Co-Chairs

GOVERNOR BILL RICHARDSON ANNOUNCES CO-CHAIRS OF THE RICHARDSON FOR PRESIDENT NEW HAMPSHIRE STEERING COMMITTEE

SANTA FE – New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson today announced the appointment of four prominent Democrats to lead his New Hampshire Steering Committee.

Governor Richardson named Candace Bouchard, Dick Bouley, Jim Casey, and Jeff Woodburn as Co-Chairs of the Richardson for President New Hampshire Steering Committee.

“I am very pleased and complimented to have such well respected and seasoned political operatives heading up my campaign efforts in New Hampshire,” said Governor Richardson. “Not only will they be a tremendous addition to the already growing support I have in the state, but their combined experience will be a great resource that will help guide my campaign.”

Robert Becker And Tom Reynolds Join Richardson For President Campaign In Iowa

NEW MEXICO GOVERNOR BILL RICHARDSON ANNOUNCES ADDITION OF IOWA STATEWIDE DIRECTOR AND COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Robert Becker and Tom Reynolds join Richardson for President Campaign in Iowa

SANTA FE, NM --- Governor Bill Richardson today announced that Robert Becker, a seasoned political operative and Tom Reynolds, an experienced communications specialist, will be joining the campaign as the Iowa Statewide Director and Communications Director.

“We’re excited to have Robert and Tom on board, they are both great additions to the team and our growing support in Iowa,” stated Governor Richardson.  “They know Iowa and Iowans and their combined political and campaign experience, within the state and nationally, will help our campaign immensely.”

Becker ran Polk County for Senator Bill Bradley’s Presidential campaign in 2000.

“Richardson’s record is unbeatable,” said Becker.  “We are going to run a grassroots campaign that showcases the Governor and his real record of accomplishment directly to the voters of Iowa. The Governor recognizes the value of the Caucuses and will vigorously compete for people’s support.”

“Governor Richardson brings to the presidential contest unrivaled experience at a time when the country is looking for seasoned leadership,” said Reynolds. “It is an honor to join his staff and I look forward to contributing to the campaign’s strong effort in Iowa.”

Bill Richardson’s Campaign Shows Strong Grassroots And Internet Support

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson’s Campaign Files Impressive First Quarter Report Showing Strong Grassroots and Internet Support

SANTA FE, NM- New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson has a successful first quarter, proving the strength, efficiency, and healthy grassroots and Internet support for his Presidential candidacy. The campaign today filed its first quarter financial report with the Federal Election Commission (FEC), showing Governor Richardson raised more than $6.2 million, with more than $5 million cash on hand as of March 31, a retention rate of over 80%.

The FEC reports shows Governor Richardson received significant grassroots support- nearly 14,000 individuals contributed to the Governor’s campaign, with almost 9,000 of those making a contribution of $100 or less. Nearly 18% of the contributions to the campaign came from the Internet, a total of approximately $1.1 million.

“The report clearly shows Governor Bill Richardson is a strong, viable candidate with broad and growing support,” said Amanda Cooper, Deputy Campaign Manager for the Richardson campaign. “It’s important to note that the Governor didn’t begin raising money until late January, and took in a significant amount of funds despite devoting much of his time to the successful 60-day New Mexico legislative session. The campaign is on goal, on budget, and building momentum.  Bill Richardson is a tireless campaigner and a proven, battle-tested fundraiser, and we feel very good about where we are.”

Ms. Cooper noted that of the nearly 15,000 total contributions to the campaign, just over 1,500 were maximum individual contributions (the $2,300 federal limit).  “That means the majority of our supporters- well over 80% - can give more as the campaign moves forward,” added Cooper.

The Richardson campaign reported debt of less than $20,000 and received $6,400 in general election contributions.

In addition to more than 30% of the contributions coming from grassroots sources, Governor Richardson also received support from a number of prominent individuals from the business, government, and entertainment communities: Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell, US Representative Tom Udall, US Senator Jeff Bingaman, former Clinton White House official Mickey Ibarra, motion picture producer Jerry Weintraub, actor Michael Douglas, singer/songwriter Randy Travis, attorney Norm Brownstein, developer Al Ratner, former Texas Governor Mark White, actor/director Rob Reiner, author Judy Blume, software developer and gay rights activist Tim Gill, labor attorney Ken Jarin, management and technology consultant Gila Bronner, government affairs consultant Darius Anderson, actor Val Kilmer, New Mexico Lieutenant Governor Diane Denish, former college and NFL coach Barry Switzer, and racing legend Al Unser.

Paul Maslin Joins Richardson Campaign As Senior Pollster

Paul Maslin joins Richardson campaign as Senior Pollster

SANTA FE, NM – Governor Bill Richardson today announced that Paul Maslin, a leading Democratic pollster, has joined his Presidential campaign. 

“Paul will be a great addition to my campaign and will serve as a senior advisor,” stated Governor Bill Richardson.  “His over twenty-five years of political experience will help guide my campaign and our message to the American people.”

Paul Maslin was the pollster and one of the key strategists in Howard Dean's groundbreaking run for President which opened new venues for grassroots organizing and fundraising

“Governor Bill Richardson is the most qualified candidate running for President,” stated Paul Maslin.  “And I am looking forward to working with the team to develop key policy initiatives and messages that will connect with the American voters.”