More on Richardson's exit

Posted: Thursday, January 10, 2008 12:59 PM by Mark Murray

From NBC's Andrea Mitchell
Richardson's own polling showed that they were not going to do well in his next-door state of Nevada, where he had campaigned aggressively. It became important to get out before Nevada and avoid the embarrassment.

Said one adviser, "It wouldnt do us any good to get our a** kicked in Nevada."

At a staff meeting today, people were told that Richardson will not endorse Obama or Clinton -- but release any supporters to whomever they prefer.

In Iowa, Clinton campaign officials were angry at Richardson for what they claimed were backroom deals with Obama on second-round choices in the caucuses.

Richardson holds a press conference today in New Mexico at 3:00 pm ET.

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Comments

The Clinton campaign is always mad about something.

Connie, Tn. (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 1:06 PM)

In Iowa, Clinton campaign officials were angry at Richardson for what they claimed were backroom deals with Obama on second-round choices in the caucuses.

Typical Clinton spin......

jerry/corpus christi texas (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 1:10 PM)

More sour grapes from the Clinton campaign. I was at the caucus. There aren't "backroom deals". What a load of cr@p. At our caucus, Richardson wasn't viable, so some went to Edwards, some went to Obama, and some merged with Biden supporters to become "uncommitted." Another example of the Clinton campaign smearing Iowa because they don't like the results.

M.A.S., Norwalk, Iowa (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 1:11 PM)

We only have Andrea's word for it that the Clinton people were mad at Richardson. I for one believe very little of what the media says about the Clintons, given the obvious level of animosity most of them have shown over the years. In my opinion MSNBC uses the journalistic equivalent of negtive push polling when it comes to coverage of the Clintons.

Patrick Casey Salt Lake City, Ut (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 1:45 PM)

I don't know how you can be mad about "back room deals" at the caucuses when each caucus participant decides where to go after their group is found to be non viable.

John B, Des Moines, IA (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 1:46 PM)

The hispanic vote will help clinton in nevada. Hispanics dont like blacks.

John, los angeles (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 1:47 PM)

Same people who here were touting on caucuss day the allaince between richardson, biden for obama are now denying it. What world do we live in now?

sad day (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 1:47 PM)

There was a time when I had great respect for Former President Bill Clinton but after his conduct of the last week I now consider him nothing better than a two-bit political hack. What a shame!

Here is a different kind of Sherman statement: I will not support them for the nomination of our party; I will not vote for them should they receive the nomination of our party.

celticfire, hartford, wi (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 1:48 PM)

My wife and I were both appalled by the media piling on of Hillary Clinton. In the debate it felt like the 'boys club' ganging up on her whatever Edwards intention. NBCs Clinton reporter referred to her camps post debate comments with scorn. Chris Mathews has been so obviously biased - she can't even laugh at something without it being a 'cackle'. We're tired of popularity contests. We want competance and policy - thats what our elected leaders are supposed to provide.
This reminds us of Media attacks on Gore, the smart one, because he was a little stiff. CMathews voted for Bush(!?) So much for his judgement.
The night Before NH, after seeing all that, we finally made up our minds to vote for Hillary in the CA primary no matter what happens before.
The Media is affecting things alright, definately.

Anthony Pounders, Sacramento, CA (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 1:54 PM)

I don't think the Clinton campaign has any "sour grapes" at all. After all, Hillary WON New Hampshire in spite of all the hype about Obama in the days leading up to the primary. Perhaps it's the Obama crowd who are showing a bit of "sour grapes" after their stunning defeat in NH???

Rob, Los Angeles, CA (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 1:55 PM)

Just a quick note-the saying "Yes we can" appeared on a greeting card that I found in desk today-1-10 (over two years old) that I sent to a friend who has cancer.

Frances C. Marshall, Fort Myers, Fla. (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 1:56 PM)

I'm just sorry that Bill did'nt make a better showing . out of all the candidates he was the only one that had what it takes to be a good pres. his record speeks for itself. As far as the clinton thing she's got a case of the pooch face cause she did'nt do so good in Iowa.

John Duran Raton N.M. (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 2:09 PM)

Governor Richardson we are proud of your positive, gracious and noble moral advocacy of your campaign. You inspired us to think about what is the true meaning of freeing the Iraq people, that the American spirit in not about nationalism of occupation, genocide, or destain for free will and human values around the world but that the American spirit is about innovation, economic growth, moral prerogatives and freedoms that are by measured by results in the quality of lives of the American people and as well as in the world community as a whole. Foremost, a master negotiator with legendary outcomes that exemplify risks, courage, and freedom.

threeriverscrossing, Raleigh, North Carolina (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 2:12 PM)

Conspiracy going on in the Clinton minds always. Paranoid as heck those Clinton's.

Yoda (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 2:15 PM)

As much as I don't like the though of things being worked out in back rooms, it is possible that a limited group of Richardson supporters did do just that.

Personally, I think that Richardson would have done better if there were less high profile candidates in the field. With regards to his debate performance, he didn't always come off as presidential. I can't define it any better than that. His experience gave him a unique view of the situtation. If asked, he should be considered a possible V.P.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 2:21 PM)

The Democrats are losing their most qualified candidate to win the White House and serve as Commander in Chief. Every commentator on TV and radio that I have seen and heard today confirms this. Too bad none of them cared enough to give his campaign some exposure. Now we are left with three candidates who, by the media's own admission, are less qualified. Thanks idiots for shooting the party, and democracy in the foot. I guess Chris Mathews and the rest of the crew at MSNBC will have a lot more time to kiss Barack Obama's behind now.

Shtuey (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 2:22 PM)

I like how you all know everything that happens behind the scenes. I guess all of you were at every "behind the scenes" meeting and every single caucus location, too. I hope this continuous attack of Hillary only continues. It only makes her stronger as a person and as a candidate for the Presidency (i.e. NH).

As for Gov. Richardson, he would have been a wonderful candidate back in 2004, but not when you have Obama and Clinton on the ticket.

Justin G, Easley, SC (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 2:22 PM)

Richardson was running? Hang in there jerry, Hillary will be coming for you soon.

Dave, TN (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 2:32 PM)

If the Clintons are smart and I really thought they were until a few weeks ago, they will run the type of campaign Hillary ran until it exploded with negativity over Obama. I am sick and tired of the politics of negativity and dirt throwing.

Barbara C., Pompano Beach, FL (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 2:35 PM)

Voters don't select the candidates for the presidental election. The candidates are picked by the news media, and slick advertising. How many news articles or TV appearances did anyone see about Bill Richardson? Very few and very little publicity from the major TV and print news. Bill Richardson was by far the most qualified of all the democratic candidates. Clinton and Obama the least qualified but get the most media coverage. John McCain will beat either one.

Robert Billett, Sacramento, CA (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 2:37 PM)

Just like with Bill, the Democrats don't want Hillary to be on top.

Caroline Ewing, Steubenville, OH (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 2:37 PM)

Now that Bill Richardson has dropped out of the race, who do you believe he will endorse?

http://www.youpolls.com/details.asp?pid=1488

.

PollM, Dallas TX (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 2:38 PM)

Richardson volunteers await the official word. So far, nothing has come from the campaign, officially. At this time, Thursday, Jan. 10(2:40 EST), we are worried. We tried our best. We believe in our candidate.

I am thankful for the days I spent in New Hampshire. Berlin, Concord, Laconia, Portsmouth, Lancaster, it was all so beautiful. I trudged through the snow, I talked with hundreds of people, all this was a privilege. I never spoke with anyone who did not acknowledge Gov. Bill Richardson to be a great man, completely qualified to be President.
If the largest obstacle to over come on the road to the White House is big money and celebrity endorsements, then the American people get cheated out of the Democratic process. There is too much at stake. We deserve the focus to be on issues and answers.

Brenda Siegelman, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 2:57 PM)

richardson is a good man

ace (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 2:59 PM)

Concur with MAS. At our caucus, 280 attended (a huge number); about 20 very loyal Biden and Richardson folks (beneath the 15% minimum). After realigning, only six of the 50 or so 'unviable' folks went to Clinton. 60% went to Obama, 25% to Edwards, a few to Clinton, and a couple home to the Orange Bowl.

Even with Clinton's sympathy win (and she deserves some), they do not get that the campaign is about the voter and what is best for the voter, but rather want to tell us that 'they' (who, of course, are so much smarter [read: 'experienced'] than the rest of us) are right. Ultimately, it's simply a poor grasp and execution of persuasion and evidence of not understanding where power truly lies.

Iowan, Iowa (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:02 PM)

Although I understand Richardson's reasons for ending his bid, his frankness, his consist message and his lack of fear in putting his thoughts out there will be missed. As the field developed I feel he was one of the few candidates to truly push an environmental agenda -- an issue mainly ignored or denied on the republican side, and given too little attention so far with the dem contenders. I hope his experience, personality and talents put him on the inside track to VP.

Anthony, West New York, NJ (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:04 PM)

I think Bill should still be invited to the debates as a negotiator.

David Dawson, Indianapolia, IN (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:05 PM)

Mr. Richarson should remember his past employers.
I think they call it loyalty.
Hillary is a go getter we need the change in the White House, we do not need I have plans show us where you have been.

mahaime (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:07 PM)

Mr. Richarson should remember his past employers.
I think they call it loyalty.
Hillary is a go getter we need the change in the White House, we do not need I have plans show us where you have been.

mahaime (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:07 PM)

The media will have nothing to talk or write about come next September. they are doing all their harm now. They (the media) will have nothing talk about when the time comes. Who cares, besides the candidates, who will win the states primaries? Everyone lies to poll takers no matter if they are asked over the phone or when they leave the polls.

bill niagara falls ny (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:08 PM)

After using their official campaign website to attack Senator Obama instead of talking about their own issues, the Clintons have lost any right of talking of democrats' affairs.
http://facts.hillaryhub.com/

D. M., Hazleton, PA (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:32 PM)

Oboma supporters-Has anyone out there recognized that we are at war with muslim extremist, you need to ask yourself do you really want to support someone with a muslim upbringing. Really what is going on in this country???? You should be very careful about who you support.

Debbie, Athens Georgia (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:32 PM)

Since when were the Clintons angry about a backroom deal? LOL

DCortez, Houston, Texas (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:33 PM)

So what if there was a deal? Hillaryland is bound together by deals. They're just mad because it wasn't their deal. Richardson would have made a great President. Now Obama will.

Alan Ulman, Milton, GA (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:37 PM)

I wonder what she'll say after she doesn't do well in Nevada's caucus...

Mike K, Denver (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:44 PM)

Richards knows a loser when he sees one. He looked at a mirror today.

scott, lithonia,Ga. (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:48 PM)

Richardson you will be missed. Now is time to boat Hillary!

Aidyn, NY (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:58 PM)

Four hours plus on a post?Unbelievable!!It seems you are getting sloppy or just don't care.On my two other blog sites,it takes fifteen minutes.If you need help,just hire someone.I'm available,being semi-retired.

docrock,tx (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 3:58 PM)

Richardson shot himself in the foot with the backroom deal with Obama. He had a real shot of being Hillary's runningmate...not going to happen now.

RGA Denver, CO (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 4:05 PM)

I'm a lifelong Democrat with a serious case of Clinton fatigue. Go Obama!

Jan, San Francisco, CA (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 4:09 PM)

Though I didn't think he had much of a chance to win given the popularity of the other canidates, I do like Governor Richardson. Given his resume, I think he would make a great VP. When it comes time, I hope the remaining canidates will consider him.

Scott, Austin, TX (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 4:14 PM)

"The Clinton campaign is always mad about something. "

Can no one see the writing on the wall? if it is like this now, what will we have if God forbid she get backinot the white house?

Lori McGee, Carbondale, PA (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 4:18 PM)

I'm sorry to see Richardson, Biden, and Dodd go without getting a serious shot during the real part of the campaign. Yes, there are remaining candidates who are decent, but these are solid leaders with excellent experience and didn't get a chance to be heard. Our system is broken and I'm not sure it can be fixed.

Lynn (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 4:20 PM)

Why would anyone ever think the Clintons will change. Hillary saying she will on the campaign trail is typical Clinton hollow speak. Hopefully America realizes this in this election.

M/G, St. Louis, MO. (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 4:39 PM)

Governor Richardson was the most qualified of any of the candidates. He would make a great VP candidate for either Clinton or Obama. The most qualified candidates Biden and Richardson are out, the rest, well..... their "experience" is about equal. Now, we need to choose who's right for our country, not necessarily who has the most experience. I also think the McCain has experience, but I just can't get past his partisan support of everything that Bush does, in the face of knowing that it's wrong. That turns me off to him. The other republicans, well they have neither the experience or the policy stands that our country needs, except for maybe Ron Paul, but he won't get nominated either. I had hoped for a Richardson/Paul ticket, well that won't happen.

Treena, NJ (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 4:47 PM)

The clintons are used to backroom deals.....they are the gurus of backroom deals.

clair (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 4:49 PM)

Dear Friends:
If I had parchment paper edges of paper to send this message it would be written thus:
Dear Govenor Richardson:
It is with the greatest distingsion when a man of your sincere vision comes forth with the spirit of
Equality and enters and runs honest and forthright
presidential campaign. It is not about the money but
about another historical moment when a person who has
heritage as yourself has entered this election campaign at this time when it is inclusive of various races and men and woman. You are a part of this nations history. God Bless you and may the people of New Mexico be proud as each and every citizen of the USA. You vote personnally is as great as each and every one of us. There may be many who will still write in your name as a candidate. There will be also amoung them those that know the importance of making their vote count to bring in the path of Americas future today for tomorrow.

American history is the better for your entry into this presidential election. Thank you. For your service for the great state of New Mexico and all the ways you have served this nation. God Bless you and your family.

Sharon Walker, Folsom, CA (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 4:50 PM)

Has your blog room been taken over by TERRORISTS!?!I truly hope that the moderators are safe,because this late posting is becoming a habit.Or maybe you only print certain HRC bashing,Obamites that have hijacked America by screaming Racism.Being racist themselves,they should know one when they see one.Where are you Alan Keyes?We need you now for your open acceptance and wisdom.

docrock,tx (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 4:52 PM)

BR couldn't take a chance that he would get his a$$ kicked in Nevada b.c that would undercut his intention to stab Tom Udall in the back and get in the Senate race.

XicanoDem, Santa Rosa NM (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 4:54 PM)

I would like to thank Gov.Richardson for being such a class act during this Presidential Race. Also, for being an inspiration to many hispanic americans like myself. Although I am 30 years old, and inspired by Obama's speaches, I was very honored and inspired by Richardson and his accomplishments, humility, and sense of humor. Richardson for VP!!!

Nicole, Phoenix, AZ (Sent Thursday, January 10, 2008 4:55 PM)

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