I am writing today to announce the closure of the New Mexico Independent. After three and a half years of operation in New Mexico, the board of the American Independent News Network, has decided to shift publication of its news…
While environmental activists played their part yesterday during demonstrations at the capitol building, going so far as to dress up as solar panels and to sing the tune of “You Are My Sunshine,” their counterparts, the anti-cap-and-trade contingency who has…
Roughly one quarter of University of New Mexico students are unimpressed with the state’s flagship public school, according to a survey that questioned college students about their higher education experiences.
OK, so now he’s officially President-elect Barack Obama’s nominee for the post of U.S. commerce secretary.
But that doesn’t mean Gov. Bill Richardson’s outta here. At least for the time being.
Richardson is saying he won’t resign his post until the U.S. Senate confirms him, according to a press release from the governor’s office. The Obama administration doesn’t officially take power until Jan. 20 and it’s unclear how long it will take the U.S. Senate to hold confirmation hearings.
Until he is confirmed, “I will continue to work tirelessly on behalf of all New Mexicans,” Richardson is quoted as saying in the release.
Working tirelessly, in case you wondered, means that he will indeed deliver the state of the state speech on Jan. 20 to kick off the 2009 legislative session in Santa Fe. Jan. 20 is the day of the president-elect’s inauguration in Washington.
Richardson said in the release that he plans on presenting “an aggressive, responsible and balanced budget plan as well as a full slate of important initiatives” for the session.
At the same time Richardson acknowledged the transition that is about to occur.
“I now ask the people of New Mexico to offer that same trust and support to Lt. Governor Diane Denish, who will take the reins when I leave,” Richardson said. “She is a strong and insightful leader and has been a great partner as we have grown our economy, worked to build and expand development and production of renewable energy, created jobs and improved our education system. I am confident she will build on the momentum we have started, and continue to work in the best interests of our people.”
Richardson also had some props for the Land of Enchantment.
“For the First Lady and me, New Mexico will always be home,” he said in the release. “There are no words to express our love for the people, the culture, and the beautiful land of this great state. We will carry with us the many friendships we have made as well as the spirit and kindness of the citizens.”
