Today, the New Mexico Senate convened for a scheduled floor session in Santa Fe. The session included a tribute to the late Governor Bill Richardson, who passed away in September 2023 at the age of 75.
Joined by former First Lady Barbara Richardson, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, former Lieutenant Governor Diane Denish, and aides, the Senate paused to honor Richardson's contributions and legacy. A Senate Certificate of Condolence was sponsored by Senator Joseph Cervantes (D-Las Cruces), highlighting Richardson's public service record and expressing gratitude to his family for their sacrifices.
Senate Majority Floor Leader Peter Wirth (D-Santa Fe) remarked on Richardson's impact: "There is no question that Bill was a man of big ideas who was not willing to go along with the status quo." He added, "He's someone who made his mark on New Mexico, this country, and frankly, the entire world with his international diplomacy."
Richardson was born in Pasadena, California in 1947. His career included serving as the inaugural U.S. Representative for New Mexico’s 3rd Congressional District from 1983-1997. He later served as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations from 1997-1998 and as U.S. Secretary of Energy from 1998-2001 before becoming Governor of New Mexico from 2003 to 2011.
The Richardson Center continues its diplomatic work in line with Governor Richardson's vision. More information can be found at https://www.reach.global/.
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