N.M. Governor Enters White House Race

WASHINGTON – Gov. Bill Richardson, D-N.M., said Sunday he is taking the first step toward an expected White House run in 2008, offering extensive experience in Washington and the world stage as he seeks to become the first Hispanic president.

“I am taking this step because we have to repair the damage that’s been done to our country over the last six years,” said Richardson, a former congressman, U.N. ambassador and Energy Department secretary.

“Our reputation in the world is diminished, our economy has languished, and civility and common decency in government has perished,” he said in a statement.

He said he had set up an exploratory committee that will allow him to begin raising money and assembling his campaign organization.

“The governor is in it to run for president,” spokesman Pahl Shipley said. The formal announcement will come in March after the end of New Mexico’s legislative session, he said.