Bill Richardson

Bill Richardson, two-time governor of New Mexico is running for the Democratic nomination for the 2008 election. He may be considered a second tier candidate behind Clinton, Obama, and Edwards—he just may not know it.

Running under the slogan “Real Experience. Real Accomplishments,” Richardson often touts his experience as a governor as well as congressman, Secretary of Energy and a US ambassador to the United Nations. My only question is if he truly has so much experience why have so few people heard of him?

Although he may be known in the Southwest as well as in diplomatic circles for his work in many government agencies it seems that few people in the general electorate have a clue who he is.

While writing this blog I usually know a bit about each candidate before I research him or her. In Richardson’s case I really had no clue who he was or what he had done. The only think that I have heard of Richardson is his commandeering nature during Democratic debates. He usually interrupts the commentators and remarks how he has freed people from Guantanamo Bay and negotiated ceasefire in Darfur. Although those are definitely important accomplishments his boisterous declaration of them during the debates comes off as boastful and almost pathetic.

One thing that Richardson speaks quite a bit about on his campaign website is his dedication to improving jobs and the economy.

During his time as the governor of New Mexico, he claims to have restored fiscal discipline to the government. He also created 80,000 jobs in New Mexico. This is an impressive statistic that could implicate how he would help to improve the employment field in future years.

With many students (myself included) graduating in May, there is a feeling of uncertainty when thinking about finding a job. If we had a president who could guarantee that there would be more jobs by the time that people graduate it would give those who work hard and pursue higher education and better jobs could have some reassurance that their hard work will pay off.

Richardson may not win the nomination, however I think that he is talking about issues that students care about. Of course Iraq and universal health care are important issues I think that candidates need to have strong stances on issues that are important to young Americans.