Letters to the editor: Governor returned home none too soon

| The New Mexican

1/14/2008 -

So Gov. Bill Richardson is back at work! On day one of his return to the citizens of New Mexico, who happen to pay his salary, he halts efforts made by Tecton Energy and its plans for oil drilling in the Galisteo Basin. Well, good job, governor! A sincere thank you from the citizens of Santa Fe County. Welcome back to work.

Amazing what happens when one is representing the voters of New Mexico, and not off on the trail shaking hands back East.

Shannon Hanson
Santa Fe


Wasted days, dollars

Finally! The governor realizes that it is over — something that was so obvious millions of dollars and months ago. Maybe now he will actually attempt to remove the drunks from our streets or to pay attention to our schools. Can we even imagine what all the wasted millions could have done for the organizations here that need help?

Maybe now The New Mexican will headline people who actually could become president. Finally, the end of the redundant Richardson Watch.

Suzanne Rene Ehry
Santa Fe


Media to blame

Bill Richardson's withdrawal from the presidential race was, in my opinion, greatly influenced by the lack of coverage from the national media. If he had tumbled down airplane stairs or had a brother named Billy, he might have had more coverage.

All he came to the campaign with was actual experience in both foreign diplomacy and energy. That wasn't enough for the media to sell papers or advertising space, though. It was too normal, mainstream and actually a good reason for even running for president in the first place. America missed out on finding out about a good person for the job.

For what it's worth, Gov. Richardson had my vote on Feb. 5. Now I guess I am going to become one of the "undecided" by just skipping this caucus vote and see who is nominated this summer.

Thomas S. Nichols
Santa Fe


Welcome home

Last Sunday night in New Hampshire something extraordinary happened during the presidential debates.

In the midst of discussions about terrorism, health care, global warming and the economy, a candidate uttered a word that is rarely heard in the world of presidential politics — art. In a list of things he said the nation should address, Gov. Richardson said we need to increase art education funding.

His comment showed his awareness of the deeper human issues that are often not addressed given the sound bite requirements of political campaigns. It also demonstrated his understanding that politics is merely the social mechanism we use to preserve those things that are most valuable to us as human beings.

Gov. Richardson would have served the nation well, but we welcome him home, where he is needed.

Lawrence Matthews
Santa Fe