Richardson secures congressional endorsements

Gov. Bill Richardson announced today the endorsements of four members of the U.S. House of Representatives – two of them Hispanics.

That’s important because a number of visible Hispanics have endorsed other Democratic presidential candidates in recent weeks.

Richardson’s campaign announced the endorsements of Mike Doyle of Pennsylvania and Solomon Ortiz, Gene Green and Silvestre Reyes of Texas. The endorsements from three Texas representatives are sure to give a boost to Richardson’s campaign in New Mexico’s neighbor to the east.

“I am privileged to have the support of such honorable men,” Richardson said in a news release. “These are outstanding congressman who have provided leadership in Congress and dedicated their careers to serving their constituents and improving our country.”

Roll Call reported in April that Richardson, who served in the House of Representatives for 14 years, was having a hard time securing endorsements from Hispanic members of Congress. At the time, the only Hispanic representative to endorse his candidacy was Ed Pastor of Arizona. Though Reyes had not yet endorsed his campaign, he had contributed $1,000.

So the new endorsements are big news.

“Having known Gov. Richardson for many years, I have always been impressed by his experience, ability and sincere commitment to our country,” Doyle said. “Our next president has to be prepared to address difficult challenges here at home and re-establish our standing abroad. I’m confident that Bill Richardson is the best choice to lead us back in the right direction, and I am proud to endorse his candidacy.”

Ortiz said Richardson “is the best presidential candidate to work across party lines to solve the very real problems facing our country.”

“I am proud to be supporting a westerner who understands and has experience with the issues of energy, water, transportation and land,” he said. “He can reach many segments of our nation, and he understands our relationship with the rest of the world, a very rare talent.”

Over the years, Green said, he has worked with Richardson and seen “firsthand how his leadership has helped not only New Mexico, but our country. Richardson has the proven executive experience and record to be president on day one.”

Reyes said he’s personally known Richardson for 20 years, and he’s the most qualified presidential candidate.

“Thanks to the actions of the current administration, our nation’s next president will face many challenges,” Reyes said. “The American people need someone with Gov. Richardson’s qualifications, experience and talent to restore our position of strength and leadership in the world.”