Bill Richardson, the esteemed former Democratic governor of New Mexico, peacefully passed away at the age of 75 on Friday.
In a statement to The Hill, Mickey Bergman, Vice President of The Richardson Center for Global Engagement, expressed, “Governor Richardson passed away peacefully in his sleep last night. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to serving others, both during his time in government and his subsequent career focused on freeing unjustly held hostages and detainees abroad.”
Bergman further highlighted Richardson’s unwavering commitment to helping those in need, stating, “Governor Richardson would converse with anyone if it meant bringing a person back to freedom. His passing is a loss for all those unjustly held abroad. Personally, I have lost a mentor and a beloved friend.”
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Richardson served as New Mexico’s governor for two terms, having been elected in 2002.
Prior to holding the governorship, Richardson held various esteemed positions including U.N. ambassador and energy secretary under former President Bill Clinton. He also served as a congressman representing a district in New Mexico for 14 years. After retiring from politics, Richardson dedicated himself to securing the release of Americans detained overseas.
Focusing on the well-being of Richardson’s family, including his wife Barbara of over 50 years who was by his side when he passed, the center will now shift its attention. Further information will be shared as it becomes available, according to Bergman.
President Biden paid tribute to the late lawmaker on Saturday, acknowledging his remarkable legacy. In a statement, President Biden expressed, “The numerous Nobel Peace Prize nominations he received speak to his relentless pursuit of freedom for Americans. This sentiment is echoed by the countless families who are grateful for the former governor’s assistance in reuniting them with their loved ones.”
President Biden reminisced about his initial interaction with Richardson several decades ago when Richardson served as a staffer on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on which President Biden was a senator. He personally witnessed Richardson’s unwavering passion for politics, love for America, and unwavering belief in the power of respect and goodwill in bridging differences. President Biden described Richardson as a patriot and a true original who will be remembered.
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