RICHARDSON: Richardson and Veterans Discuss Effects of Iraq War on Military Families

Richardson and Veterans Discuss Effects of Iraq War on Military Families
For Immediate Release
December 20, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds


WATERLOO, IA-- New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson today will hold a roundtable discussion on the toll that the Iraq war is taking on veterans and military families. Governor Richardson will be joined at the event by New Mexico Secretary of Veterans Affairs John Garcia, Vietnam veteran Rick Bolanos, Iraq veteran Sergeant Julie Gorman of Iowa, and Sue Dinsdale of Huxley, Iowa, the mother of an Iraq veteran.

As other candidates have shifted away from discussing the Iraq war, Governor Richardson continues to promote his plan to withdraw all American troops and properly treat returning veterans and their wounds, both physical and mental.

"Some of my fellow candidates have decided to stop talking about Iraq," Richardson said. "Some have said that we can change America at home while keeping troops in Iraq for perhaps five years or longer. That is not an equation that adds up. The fact is that we cannot move forward on any domestic issues while our troops remain in Iraq."

Sergeant Gorman, who served in Iraq from 2003 to 2004, suffers from a service connected disability. Dinsdale is the mother of an Iraq veteran with a service connected disability.

"When I am President, our veterans will have a Heroes Health Card so that they can get the care they deserve wherever they need it," Richardson said. "I will guarantee full mandatory funding for the VA (Department of Veterans Affairs). It is essential that we fix Walter Reed and the rest of our military hospitals. Also, we are going to treat mental trauma, such as PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) the same way that we treat physical wounds-- like the battlefield injuries that they are.

"As President, I will reduce the federal income tax on veterans by five percent for the rest of their lives. Senator Jim Webb is exactly right on this issue. I also will eliminate the federal income tax on all troops in their first year out of the military. We are going to do right by military families."

Secretary Garcia and Vietnam veteran Bolanos both have worked extensively with Governor Richardson on veterans issues.

"Vets are coming back from Iraq with serious physical and mental wounds," Garcia said. "The next President is going to have to do more than just say the right things. Bill Richardson has a long record of getting it done for veterans."

Please find biographies of the roundtable participants below:

John Garcia

Secretary John Garcia brings with him a background in strategic planning, business development, and community relations. He is well-known to the veterans community and was a Commissioner on the predecessor state veterans body, the New Mexico Veterans Service Commission.

Secretary Garcia served in the Central Highlands of South Vietnam in 1969-1970 as a member of the U.S. Army's 4th Infantry Division. He is a founding member of the Vietnam Veterans of New Mexico and served as the National Deputy Director of the Vietnam Veterans Leadership Program in Washington, D.C.

During the period immediately preceding his appointment as Cabinet Secretary of the Department of Veterans Services, Garcia was the president of Garcia and Associates, a consulting company providing governmental affairs, business development, marketing, and public relations services.

Secretary Garcia formerly served in the administration of New Mexico Governor Bruce King as Deputy Chief of Staff and Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Economic Development Department. Prior to his service in state government, Garcia was the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce.

Secretary Garcia is the current president of the National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs (NASDVA), an association consisting of the top veterans affairs official in each of the 50 states. The U.S. Small Business Administration recognized Secretary Garcia as the 2006 New Mexico "Veteran Small Business Champion of the Year."

Secretary Garcia has been a member of numerous boards, committees, and task forces, including the National Hispanic Cultural Center, Albuquerque Explora Museum, Governor’s Business Advisory Council, Shared Vision of Albuquerque, International Trade Council of New Mexico, Albuquerque Little Theater, and the Inter American Bank of New Mexico. He is a founding member of the New Mexico Hispanic Genealogy Research Center and the recipient of the De Colores New Mexico Hispanic Business Leadership Award, Mexican American Foundation's National Hispanic Leadership Award, American Center's International Leadership Award, and Washington DC's Action Agency ACTION Award. The U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce recognized him as Advocate of the Year for Minority Business, and he received the Profile of Courage Award from the Vietnam Veterans of New Mexico.

Rick Bolanos

In 1966, Rick Bolanos joined his brothers Louis, Ben, and Bill in volunteering for military service in Vietnam. The Bolanos family was the only one in the United States to have four brothers who served in that conflict at the same time. Born in Texas to immigrant parents, the brothers were taught from the beginning the importance of service to their country. Each brother joined a different branch of the Armed Forces: Louis, the Navy; Ben, the Marine Corps; Bill, the Army Green Berets; and Rick, the Army Airborne. Three of the four brothers served in combat together, and two were wounded. The Bolanos brothers were cited for their patriotism by President Lyndon Johnson, and in 2004, the Texas Legislature passed a resolution honoring their military service.

Rick Bolanos received a BA in Management and an MBA from New Mexico Highlands University, and he has spent time as a teacher. In 2004, he toured the nation with his brothers to encourage civil participation in the election, particularly by veterans.

Julie Gorman

A veteran of the Iraq war with a service connected disability, Iowa resident Julie Gorman served 22 years in the Army Reserves, earning the rank of Sergeant First Class E-7. Gorman served in Iraq from May 2003 through May 2004 with the 389th Combat Engineers.

Sue Dinsdale

A resident of Huxley, Iowa, Sue Dinsdale is the mother of an Iraq veteran with a service connected disability who served two tours in Iraq. Dinsdale also is the wife of a Vietnam veteran.


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

RICHARDSON: Richardson Statement on Death of Congressman Kucinich's Brother

Richardson Statement on Death of Congressman Kucinich's Brother
For Immediate Release
December 19, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds


SANTA FE, NM-- New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson today issued the following statement on the death of Ohio Congressman Dennis Kucinich’s brother Perry:

"I offer my deepest condolences to Congressman Kucinich and his family and friends. Barbara and I will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers."


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

RICHARDSON: New Richardson Ad Draws Clear Distinctions on Iraq Policy

New Richardson Ad Draws Clear Distinctions on Iraq Policy
For Immediate Release
December 19, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds


MANCHESTER, NH-- Continuing in its effort to reestablish Iraq as the critical issue in this election, the Richardson for President campaign today released a new ad in Iowa and New Hampshire entitled "All Out." The ad points out the distinct policy differences between New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, who supports withdrawing all U.S. forces and leaving no residual forces behind, and the other major Democratic Presidential candidates, who could not pledge to have all U.S. forces out of Iraq by 2013.

To watch the ad and read the accompanying background documents, click here.

"Iraq is the most important issue facing our country, but the national media and too many of my fellow candidates seem to have put it on the backburner," Governor Richardson said. "We can accomplish nothing on domestic issues, which the other candidates have shifted to, until we get all of our troops out of Iraq and actually end this war.

"There are serious policy differences in this race. Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, and John Edwards could not pledge to have all of our troops out by 2013, five years from now. I will get all of them out within a year and leave no residual forces behind.

"I pledged early in this race to stay positive and debate the issues. This ad does not change that because in my mind, no other issue is more important than Iraq, and there are clear differences on where we stand.

"I am the only major candidate who will bring all of our troops home and end this war. Voters and caucus-goers deserve to know that there are clear policy distinctions between the candidates before deciding who should be the next President of the United States."

"All Out" was produced by Steve Murphy and Mark Putnam of Murphy Putnam Media.

The Richardson for President campaign also launched a new Web page today entitled "The Difference on Iraq." This page will provide voters and caucus-goers with additional information on the differences between the major Democratic Presidential candidates on the Iraq war. Click here to view the page.


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

RICHARDSON: Richardson for President Campaign Unveils Americans with Disabilities Policy

Richardson for President Campaign Unveils Americans with Disabilities Policy

National Disabilities Spokeswoman Cody Unser lays out policy in live online video chat
For Immediate Release
December 17, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds

MOUNT VERNON, IA-- The Richardson for President campaign yesterday evening unveiled its Americans with Disabilities policy in an online video chat with Cody Unser of the Unser racing family, the campaign's National Disabilities Spokeswoman. In the online chat, Unser discussed Governor Richardson's vision for disabled Americans.

"I think we all know that we absolutely have to elect a President in 2008 who understands that the concerns of disabled Americans are the concerns of all Americans," Unser said. "I am here to tell you that Bill Richardson will be that President. He is committed to making real progress on the issues that matter to disabled Americans. I have seen him do it in New Mexico."

Cody Unser, daughter of two-time Indianapolis 500 champion Al Unser, Jr., was diagnosed at the age of twelve with Transverse Myelitis (TM), a neurological condition that causes inflammation of the spinal cord. She has been paralyzed from the waist down since 1999. The Cody Unser First Step Foundation was established to build awareness about TM, promote research, and improve Quality of Life programs for others with paralysis.

In the Richardson campaign's inaugural online video chat, Unser elaborated on the work that Governor Richardson has done in New Mexico, described the policies that he will enact as President, and answered the questions of those participating in the chat.

"Governor Richardson has a long history of supporting people with disabilities," Unser said. "He has worked with my foundation to create the New Mexico Disabilities Portal, a one-stop center for information and services that helps New Mexicans with disabilities find the best possible resources to meet individual needs. I have been deeply impressed by Governor Richardson's work in New Mexico, and I am excited by his vision for America."

Richardson spoke about his Americans with Disabilities policy and his plans as President to help people with disabilities.

"I am proud to have Cody acting as National Disabilities Spokeswoman for my campaign," Governor Richardson said. "Cody understands, as I do, that to support Americans with disabilities, we must guarantee every American his or her civil rights. We must ensure opportunities for people with disabilities to be independent, successful members of their respective communities.

"As President, I will sign the bipartisan ADA Restoration Act. The Supreme Court's recent reactionary decisions must be corrected by federal legislation. We must end the Catch-22 of allowing businesses to say that a person is "too disabled" to do a job but "not disabled enough" to be protected by the ADA."

To read Governor Richardson's Americans with Disabilities policy, click here.


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

Richardson Releases Statement on Failure to Pass Energy Bill

Richardson Releases Statement on Failure to Pass Energy Bill
For Immediate Release
December 13, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds


DES MOINES, IA-- New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson today released the following statement on the failure of the Senate to pass the energy bill:

"The Congress and the President are locked in a dysfunctional relationship, and it is not working for the American people. Yesterday the President vetoed health care for kids. Today he is threatening to veto the green jobs and clean air that come from real energy reform. Stripping the tax incentives to make it palatable to President Bush denies the American people the key mechanism for energy reform.

"Tax incentives work. I have used them in New Mexico, and they are imperative to stimulating the new energy economy that this country so desperately needs.

"This is the deepest, coldest part of winter, and sustained gas and home heating and fuel prices are hurting American families. President Bush is offering no leadership, and now the Senate once again has failed to pass meaningful legislation. Now, instead of continuing to push for reform, the Republicans are siding with big oil against the interests of the American people.

"We do not need more half-measures on energy; we need a revolution. I am proud that the Sierra Club and League of Conservation Voters have called my energy plan the most aggressive offered by any candidate running for President.

"I am proud to recently have authored a book on this subject, LEADING BY EXAMPLE: How We Can Inspire an Energy and Security Revolution, and I am proud to be the only candidate in the race to seriously have tackled this issue as Secretary of Energy and Governor of New Mexico."


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

Richardson Sharply Distinguishes Himself from Opponents on Education and Jobs

Richardson Sharply Distinguishes Himself from Opponents on Education and Jobs
For Immediate Release
December 12, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds

SIOUX CITY, IA-- New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson today sharply contrasted his record of leadership with those of the other Presidential candidates during a conversation on education and jobs in Sioux City, Iowa.

"You know, every candidate in this race is asking for the biggest job promotion of his or her life," Richardson said. "So let us look at what the Senate has done in the last twelve months since my colleagues, Senators Biden, Clinton, Dodd, and Obama, took over the leadership of Congress.

"Did they get us out of Iraq? No. Did they scrap No Child Left Behind and reform education? No. Do millions of poor children have the health insurance that they need? No. Did they block an Attorney General nominee who would not say that waterboarding is torture? No. Have they done enough to stop this country from slipping into a recession? No. Are millions of Americans worried about holding onto their jobs and homes and preserving their quality of life? Yes.

"I know that we can do better, and I have done better. In the last twelve months, I have helped shut down North Korea's main nuclear reactor. We have brought back the remains of six American soldiers from that country which had been missing since the Korean War, including those of Corporal Clem Boody of Independence, Iowa, whose funeral I attended last week. I have extended health coverage to every child under the age of thirteen in my state. I have raised teacher salaries. I have cracked down on unscrupulous lenders. I have passed a landmark clean energy bill to create jobs and protect our air quality."

In his speech, Richardson looked ahead to the general election and beyond.

"I am looking forward to putting my record up against Mike Huckabee or Mitt Romney," Richardson said. "We need to put a candidate up against the Republicans who knows how to create jobs. Even more importantly, the next President better know how to. I can tell you from experience: bickering does not create jobs. Speeches do not create jobs. Republicans do not create jobs.

"I am sick of the Republicans painting Democrats as fiscally irresponsible. We created the New Deal. They created the raw deal. We created the Great Society. They created the Great Depression. We created the boom of the 1990's. Over the past seven years, the Republicans have had the worst record of job creation since President Herbert Hoover.

"It is time for a President focused again on working Americans. It is time for a new vision. This vision is not a Republican dream or a Democratic dream. It is not a black dream, a brown dream, or a white dream. It is not a poor dream or a rich dream. It is the American Dream."

To read the full text of Governor Richardson's speech on education and jobs, click here.

To read Governor Richardson's plan for American jobs and the economy, click here.


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

Lee Iacocca Praises Governor Richardson's Experience in New "Guts" Ad

Lee Iacocca Praises Governor Richardson's Experience in New "Guts" Ad
For Immediate Release
December 12, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds


SANTA FE, NM-- The Richardson for President campaign today went up with a new ad in New Hampshire entitled "Guts." The ad features former Ford President and Chrysler CEO Lee Iacocca, who recently endorsed New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson for President.

Click here to see the ad and background materials.

"I spent a lot of years as a CEO, and I am looking for a President with experience creating jobs and the guts to lead," Iacocca says in the ad. "And that is Bill Richardson. As a Governor, he turned his state's economy around by focusing on the jobs of tomorrow, like clean energy. He has balanced budgets, negotiated with foreign leaders, and he never gives up."

"New Hampshire voters want a tested leader in the Oval Office," campaign manager Dave Contarino said. "This ad shows that Governor Richardson's experience and record set him apart from the rest of the field. Lee Iacocca and Bill Richardson have a lot in common-- they are both proven leaders who always are on the lookout for innovation and are not afraid of taking bold action."

Governor Richardson's record on economic development is unparalleled in the Democratic field. Over 80,000 more New Mexicans are working since he took office, and many of these new jobs are in burgeoning sectors such as renewable energy. Richardson also has invested in education by raising teacher pay every year in office and has cut taxes for working families.

"A business legend like Lee Iacocca only would vouch for a candidate who knows how to fix our economy," Richardson said. "I am proud that he is placing that faith in me, and this ad is a reflection of that sentiment. As President, I will take every American's job as seriously as I do my own. Once again, we will make our economy work for middle-class Americans."

The ad was produced by Steve Murphy and Mark Putnam of Murphy Putnam Media.

Lee Iacocca Biography:

Lee Iacocca is the founder of the Iacocca Foundation for diabetes research. A graduate of Lehigh University with a master's degree from Princeton University, he began his career at Ford Motor Company as an engineer but moved to sales shortly thereafter. Iacocca's innovative approach to the automotive industry led to his becoming President of Ford in 1970.

After a seven-year stint, he moved to Chrysler Corporation and became CEO at a time when the company was on the verge of bankruptcy. By taking short-term loans from the federal government and shifting the company's inventory to more fuel-efficient models, Iacocca had Chrysler turning record profits within six years. Since his retirement as CEO in 1992, Iacocca has been active in philanthropic projects around the world.

His new book, entitled Where Have All the Leaders Gone?, cites how President Bush lacks the basic components of good leadership and gives him an "F" grade for leadership. In contrast, Iacocca praises Governor Richardson's experience in government and lends credence to his Presidential candidacy.


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

Bill Richardson Calls on Congress to Investigate Use of Torture and Destruction of CIA Tapes

Bill Richardson Calls on Congress to Investigate Use of Torture and Destruction of CIA Tapes
For Immediate Release
December 11, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds


SANTA FE, NM-- New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson today issued the following statement regarding the Senate Intelligence Committee hearings on the destruction of CIA videotapes of interrogation techniques used against a terror suspect:

"It is imperative that Congress get to the bottom of the CIA torture tapes scandal. The American people deserve to know whether laws were violated and whether the President was directly involved in illegal activities. Torture is a black and white moral issue. A failure to act decisively in this case will be an unacceptable failure of leadership.

"Thirteen months after winning back the House and Senate, the Democratic Congress simply has not done enough to remedy this administration's blatant disregard for the Constitution and laws of the United States. They failed to block an Attorney General nominee who equivocated on torture. They have taken no action on the International Criminal Court. They have implemented no mechanism, such as a Special Prosecutor, to provide for high-level accountability. They failed to restore habeas corpus. They have done literally nothing to enforce the Constitution and/or any of our laws against torture.

"America's reputation, liberties, and moral leadership continue to be assaulted by Vice President Cheney and President Bush. If this Congress again fails to get to the bottom of these outrages, I will begin serious investigations as President on January 20th, 2009. We can and must find out who is responsible. If necessary, there will be prosecutions. NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW."


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

Richardson to Draw Sharp Contrast with Opponents on Jobs Tomorrow

Richardson to Draw Sharp Contrast with Opponents on Jobs Tomorrow
Media Advisory
December 11, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds

SANTA FE, NM-- New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson will showcase his jobs and education policy in a speech tomorrow, Wednesday, December 12 in Sioux City, Iowa. The speech is part of a continuing effort by Governor Richardson to highlight his superior agenda and experience on the domestic front.

Richardson will draw a strong contrast between his record of action in New Mexico over the past twelve months and the failure of the Democratic Congress to enact legislation on important issues like education, health care, and the economy.

Furthermore, Richardson will sharply differentiate his positive vision for creating jobs and economic security from the meaningless bickering of his opponents in the Democratic primary.

With an emphasis on strengthening our country's foundation through a renewed commitment to education, innovation, job creation, and fiscal responsibility, Richardson will detail his plan to maintain America's position as the world's economic leader.

Since Richardson has taken office, over 80,000 more New Mexicans are working. In addition, Richardson has cut taxes and balanced the budget and raised teacher pay every year in office.

WHAT: Conversation on Education and Jobs in America
WHEN: Wednesday, December 12 at 11:30 AM (Central Time)
WHERE: Briar Cliff University, Assisi Canticle Room, St. Francis Center at the Stark Student Center, 3303 Rebecca Street, Sioux City, IA


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

Richardson Calls for New Energy and Security Doctrine in Speech to Green Xchange

Richardson Calls for New Energy and Security Doctrine in Speech to Green Xchange
For Immediate Release
December 10, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds


LOS ANGELES, CA-- New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson today called for a new American energy doctrine in a speech at the Green Xchange Global Conference in Los Angeles, California.

"The climate cannot tolerate the indecision of our leaders," Richardson said. "We need bold action now to fix the situation. My energy plan consistently has been measured as the boldest, most integrated, and most comprehensive platform offered by any candidate.

"It is going to take more than having the right stance on the issues. I am the only Democratic candidate who has real executive experience on energy, security, and the environment. The best plan will work only if the next President challenges the nation and commits to moving quickly."

Governor Richardson proposed that the United States return to its rightful place as a world leader.

"By adopting strong energy rules and incentives at home, we will show the world the America that it used to see-- an innovative country that leads by example," Richardson said. "As we make these changes at home, we also will conduct international negotiations aimed at reducing carbon emissions.

"We need real diplomacy. I have been tested as a diplomat throughout my career, and I will bring that experience to the negotiating table."

Richardson elaborates on his energy doctrine in his new book Leading by Example: How We Can Inspire an Energy and Security Revolution.


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

Gitmo Interrogator Pete Mora Blasts Bush Handling of CIA Interrogation Tapes, Praises Richardson Experience

Gitmo Interrogator Pete Mora Blasts Bush Handling of CIA Interrogation Tapes, Praises Richardson Experience
For Immediate Release
December 7, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds


SIOUX CITY, IA-- Former Guantanamo and Abu Ghraib interrogator Pedro "Pete" Mora campaigned in Iowa today on behalf of New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson. He called out the Bush Administration on recent revelations that the CIA destroyed tapes of harsh interrogations.

"The Bush Administration has allowed the use of abusive and illegal interrogation techniques that are against the Geneva Conventions, and the destruction of these tapes can only be considered a cover-up," Mora said. "It is a clear attempt to hide evidence from the world.

"As an interrogator, I was at the tip of the spear in the Global War on Terror. I had to face down some of our nation's most brutal enemies, but I always did it with basic respect for human dignity. Bill Richardson has been doing the same thing his whole career—facing down the toughest the world has to offer and protecting America's interests without compromising America's values."

Richardson weighed in on the case before the Supreme Court regarding the rights of detainees at the Guantanamo Bay prison.

"If I were President, the Supreme Court would not even be considering this case, because I would have shut down Guantanamo a long time ago," Richardson said. "I'm honored to have Pete Mora speaking out with me about the need for our country to be the world's conscience, not the world's policeman."

Richardson also criticized the Bush Administration the CIA tapes.

"The Bush-Cheney Administration seems to be on a mission to destroy our credibility in the world," Richardson said. "That these tapes existed is reprehensible. That they were destroyed is outrageous. When I'm President, we're going not going to encourage torture, we're going to prosecute those who practice it, even if those prosecutions go all the way to the top. No one is above the law."

Please find Pete Mora's bio below:

Pedro "Pete" Mora was born in Michoacan, Mexico in 1964. He grew up in immigrant labor camps around Central California and joined the U.S. Army in November 1981. He served on active duty from 1981-1987 in Germany where he worked as German Linguist while serving in the 11th Armored Cavalry on the East/West German Border.

In 2000, Mora joined the US Army Reserve where he served as a Psychological Operations Specialist with deployments to Bosnia, Kosovo, and Germany. After completing Army Interrogation school in 2003, Mora was deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba as part of Joint Task Force-GTMO in support of Detainee Operations where he was assigned to a Middle East Regional Team as a Human Intelligence Collector (Interrogator). He conducted 12 Interrogation sessions a week with suspected mid-level Al Qaida detainees at Camp Delta.

In January 2004, Mora was selected by JTF-GTMO Commander Major General Miller to deploy to Abu Ghraib with Special Interrogation Team (Tiger Team) to assist in the streamlining of the intelligence collection process at Abu Ghraib, Iraq. Conducted numerous interrogations of high-ranking Iraqi Generals, Ba'ath party officials, foreign fighters, and suspected insurgents.

In May 2004, re-deployed to JTF-GTMO Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and resumed duties with the Joint Interrogation Group (JIG), Camp Delta. He completed deployment and was demobilized in August 2004.

August 2004, Mora accepted employment as a contract Intelligence Research and Screening Specialist, and deployed to Bagram Afghanistan to support detainee operations at the Joint Intelligence Facility (JIF) where he deployed on numerous occasions with a Mobile Interrogation Team (MIT) to support Field Intelligence Operations at Isolated Forward Operating Bases (FOB).

He returned to California in April 2005 and resumed employment as a State Police Officer. In March 2007, Mora transferred to the Department Of Corrections and Rehabilitation, were he is currently employed.

Since leaving the Military, Mora has been a leading advocate for human rights regarding the Geneva Code of Conduct and a vocal critic of the Bush Administration's policies in fighting the Global War on Terror. Mora is currently writing a book on his experiences.


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

Richardson Disappointed by Senate AMT Vote

Richardson Disappointed by Senate AMT Vote
For Immediate Release
December 6, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds


SANTA FE, NM-- New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson today released the following statement:

"I am disappointed that Senators Obama, Clinton, Dodd and Biden failed to show up for today's important vote on the Alternative Minimum Tax. This legislation could provide needed relief for Americans straining under the pressure of George Bush's failed economic policies.

"Woody Allen once said that, '80% of success is showing up.' I don't know if the same applies to leadership but I know you can't persuade anyone or shape the debate unless you try.

"As President I will get rid of the Alternative Minimum Tax for middle income workers and I pledge to always show up and fight for the middle class."


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

Leading the Class on Energy and Climate: Richardson Policy Gets Highest Grade and Only "A" on Independent Report Card

Leading the Class on Energy and Climate: Richardson Policy Gets Highest Grade and Only "A" on Independent Report Card
For Immediate Release
December 6, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds


SANTA FE, NM-- New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson received the only "A" rating on a new influential report card that graded Presidential candidates' plans to address energy policy and climate change. The report card was issued by leading energy expert Terry Tamminen.

"Richardson is the only candidate whose greenhouse gas reduction measures are likely to exceed the reductions set forth in his plan," the report states.

It continues: "...his overall approach is the most comprehensive of any plan put forth to date, either in federal legislation or by other candidates for President."

"It is an honor to have my plan recognized as the best by this leading energy and climate expert," Richardson said. "America needs bold Presidential leadership to meet our energy and climate challenges. Americans want action, inspiration, an energy revolution.

"I will provide that leadership and inspiration. I will improve national security, strengthen America's economy, cut energy prices, create choice for consumers, and combat global warming with an aggressive, integrated, comprehensive policy straight from the White House.

"It's time for optimism, technological innovation, and exciting new policy. That's my approach."

Richardson describes his philosophy and ideas in a new book on energy policy: Leading By Example: How America Can Inspire an Energy and Security Revolution, published in November by John Wiley & Sons.

According to his web site, Tamminen's report card "is designed to objectively analyze each candidate's stated positions on climate change." It adds: "The Report Card provides a 'big picture' of each candidate's climate policy by comparing their greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets and timelines, along with any stated climate action plan that would achieve such targets."

The Report Card used S. 309, the Global Warming Pollution Reduction Act ("Sanders-Boxer Act") as a baseline to compare candidates' plans.

According to Tamminen's bio, "He was appointed as the Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency http://www.calepa.ca.gov/ in November, 2003, and Cabinet Secretary, the Chief Policy Advisor to the Governor, in December, 2004. He continues to advise Governor Schwarzenegger on energy and environmental policy. In April, 2007, he was named the Cullman Senior Fellow and Director of the Climate Policy Program of the New America Foundation, a non-profit, post-partisan, public policy institute."

You can read about Richardson's energy plan at: http://www.richardsonforpresident.com/issues/energy or in Leading By Example.

The Tamminen Report Card can be viewed at: http://www.terrytamminen.com/reportcard/grading.asp.

Richardson calls for extensive review of other NIEs

Richardson calls for extensive review of other NIEs
For Immediate Release
December 6, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds

SANTA FE, NM-- New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson today released the following statement:

"The 180 degree change of this most recent National Intelligence Estimate on Iran from the one released just two years ago raises significant concerns about the accuracy of the intelligence the administration uses to make important national security decisions.

"The 2005 NIE said Iran had a nuclear program. This recent NIE says they abandoned that program in 2003. In the meantime, the Bush Administration seemed to be taking us to the brink of a new war, once again over a non-existent threat.

"Congress should employ its oversight role and demand the intelligence community move quickly to carefully review past NIEs to ensure that the conclusions they draw are well supported by the facts.

"I have worked for many years with intelligence. I know that 100 percent accuracy is not an attainable goal. But I also know that out intelligence services do a good job when they have the resources they need and are not subjected to political pressures.

"This Administration has repeatedly based major policy decisions, including the decision to go to war in Iraq, on weak or politicized intelligence. Every time another U.S. soldier dies or is wounded in Iraq we are reminded of the consequences of what this means.

"Asking our intelligence community to review their work at this time would be appropriate and prudent.

"We have seen horrible failures in the past. We must take reasonable steps now to avoid similar failures in the future."


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

Richardson Statement on Marine Corps Request to Redeploy out of Iraq and into Afghanistan

Richardson Statement on Marine Corps Request to Redeploy out of Iraq and into Afghanistan
For Immediate Release
December 6, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds


WASHINGTON, D.C.-- New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson today issued the following statement on the Marine Corps' request to shift out of Iraq and into Afghanistan:

"It is unprecedented in our nation's history for the Marine Corps to ask for permission to leave one war in order to fight another. Although Defense Secretary Gates has rejected Marine Corps Commandant General James Conway's proposal, perhaps the Bush administration should take note of the real meaning of this request: that one of America's military services formally has requested leave from President Bush's failed Iraq policy.

"General Conway has the right idea. The real threat to America is the terrorists who attacked us on 9/11, and they are based on the Afghan-Pakistani border. We need to withdraw all of our forces from Iraq-- leaving behind no residual troops-- and redouble our efforts in Afghanistan.

"Our troops have done everything that has been asked of them and more. They deserve to leave Iraq with honor, and they deserve to begin leaving today. Nearly five years into this war, the death of one more American troop is one too many."


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

Richardson: "Honoring picket line is more important than debate"

For Immediate Release
November 21, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds


SANTA FE, NM-- New Mexico Governor and Presidential candidate Bill Richardson today released the following statement on the circumstances surrounding the upcoming debate in Los Angeles, California:

"I have long stood with labor. If the CBS writers are still on strike, I will not cross the picket line for the upcoming Presidential debate.

"Supporting workers' rights is more important than anything I will say at the debate."


Paid for by Richardson for President, Inc.

Actor/Activist Tony Plana to Serve as National Mi Familia con Richardson Spokesperson

Richardson announces national co-chairs and staff;
Mi Familia program beats goal of 100 chapters in 100 days

For Immediate Release
November 14, 2007
Contact: Tom Reynolds

FRESNO, CA-- The Richardson for President campaign today announced that actor/activist Tony Plana, a star of ABC's hit show "Ugly Betty," will serve as the National Spokesperson for Mi Familia con Richardson, the campaign's grassroots Latino outreach program.

To learn more about Mi Familia con Bill Richardson, click here.

"Tony Plana not only is a brilliant actor, he also is an activist committed to serving the Latino community and working to improve the lives of every American," Governor Richardson said. "I often have said that this election will not be decided by which candidate is the biggest rock star. However, I never said anything about TV stars. I am proud to have Tony on my team to help lead this critically important outreach effort.”

Plana is one of the many leading Latino activists who have joined Mi Familia con Richardson. Grassroots leaders, community activists, and concerned citizens all are getting involved in this growing outreach program.

"Bill Richardson has spent his career in public service bringing people together to make life better for everyone," Plana said. "I am privileged to be a part of his campaign and to help him reach out to Latinos across the United States. I am excited that a Latino is running for the White House, but more importantly, I am excited that Bill Richardson has a vision for a better America and the experience to make that vision a reality."

The Richardson campaign also announced that the Mi Familia program has surpassed its goal of creating 100 chapters in 100 days.

"We are thrilled that the response to the Mi Familia program has been overwhelming, beyond our most optimistic expectations," Mi Familia National Director John Gomez said. "We are proud that Latinos across the country are joining the movement to elect Bill Richardson as the next President of the United States."

The Richardson for President campaign also announced the national and regional leadership of Mi Familia con Bill Richardson. Please find this information below:

TONY PLANA -- NATIONAL SPOKESPERSON

Tony Plana was educated at Loyola High School, Los Angeles, and Loyola Marymount University, where he earned a Bachelor's degree through the Honors Program in Literature and Theatre Arts, graduating magna cum laude. He received professional training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, England.

Plana currently stars as Ignacio Suarez, the widowed father to America Ferrera's Ugly Betty, in ABC's landmark, groundbreaking hit series for which he received the 2006 Golden Satellite Award from the International Press Academy and an Alma Award nomination for the best supporting actor in a television comedy.

As an actor, Plana has starred in more than 70 feature films, including JFK, Nixon, Salvador, An Officer and a Gentleman, Lone Star, Three Amigos, Born in East L.A., El Norte, 187, Primal Fear, Romero, One Good Cop, Havana, The Rookie, Silver Strand and Picking Up the Pieces with Woody Allen. He recently appeared in the action thriller Half Past Dead with Steven Seagal, Morris Chestnut, and Ja Rule; The Lost City, with Andy Garcia, Bill Murray, and Dustin Hoffman; and Disney's highly acclaimed GOAL, The Dream Begins! His soon-to-be-released feature film projects include El Muerto, starring Wilmer Valderrama, Justified, Towards Darkness, and American East with Tony Shalhoub.

He has been married to actress Ada Maris for nineteen years and is the proud father of Alejandro and Isabel.

RICHARD HERNANDEZ -- CO-CHAIR

Rick Hernandez is the President and CEO of the Metec Group, a financial consulting firm based in Washington, D.C.

Hernandez served on the Senior White House Staff of President Carter and was Counselor to Vice President Al Gore for his Reinventing Government program. He also served as Chief of Operations at the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Hernandez is the founder of the Mexican American Democrats of Texas and currently serves as a Senior Advisor to the Richardson for President campaign.

MIRIAM CRUZ -- CO-CHAIR

Miriam Cruz is the President of Cruz and Associates, an educational consulting firm servicing Hispanic universities and other educational institutions.

In 1996, she helped organize the National Hispanic Religious Partnership for Community Health. She was awarded the Medallion of Excellence by the Hispanic Congressional Caucus.

Cruz is a trustee of the National City Christian Church Foundation and a member of the Board of Higher Education of the Christian Church.

SUPERVISOR GLORIA MOLINA -- CO-CHAIR

In the 1970's, Gloria Molina served in the White House under President Carter and the San Francisco Department of Health and Human Services.

She was elected to the California State Assembly in 1982 and the Los Angeles City Council in 1987. On February 19, 1991, she became the first Latina ever elected to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.

She was named as one of the Democratic Party's "10 Rising Stars" by TIME magazine in 1996. Molina served as one of four vice chairs of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) through 2004.

JOHN GOMEZ -- NATIONAL MI FAMILIA DIRECTOR

John Gomez is a native of Las Cruces, New Mexico. He has over fifteen years of grassroots political and operational expertise, most recently as Director of Operations and Hispanic Outreach for Jim Pederson's U.S. Senate race in Arizona. He also has served as Campaign Manager for Richardson for President Arizona Co-Chair and State Minority Whip Rep. Steve Gallardo's House and School Board races and has directed campaigns for FieldWorks, Inc., SEIU, and ACORN.

He has served on various boards and commissions for the City of Phoenix, including the Phoenix 2006 Bond Committee, GLBT Advisory Board, Hispanic Advisory Board, and the Village Planning and Zoning Commission.

Gomez has been very involved with the Arizona State Democratic Party as Precinct and State Committeeman and Vice Chair of Legislative District 10. Gomez also has served on the Executive Board for the Maricopa County Democratic Party as Sergeant-at-Arms.

DANIEL FIGUEROA III -- EASTERN STATES DIRECTOR

Daniel Figueroa currently is the Chief of Staff to Assemblyman Peter M. Rivera, Chairman of the Hispanic Caucus. He also is the former Executive Director of the New York State Assembly/Senate Puerto Rican/Hispanic Task Force. Under Assemblyman Rivera's direction, Figueroa oversaw the development of a Hispanic legislative agenda for New York.

Figueroa has worked as a criminal defense attorney for the Bronx Legal Aid Society Criminal Defense Division, prosecutor of disciplinary violations at the New York City Department of Sanitation, and Police Prosecutor for the New York Police Department.

Figueroa also has served as adjunct professor of Latin American History at Mercy College and has taught paralegal courses as part of the Bronx Community College Paralegal Program.

He also is the longest serving president of the Community Democratic Club in the Bronx and is a political operative with the Bronx Democratic County Committee and the New York State Democratic Committee.

FERNANDO ROMERO -- NEVADA HISPANIC OUTREACH COORDINATOR

Fernando Romero has a long history in Nevada politics. A graduate of UNLV, Romero has been volunteering and working on political campaigns for over 37 years, having first volunteered on Harry Reid's campaign for Lieutenant Governor.

Romero has directed two state agencies: the Nevada Equal Rights Commission and the Nevada Equal Employment Opportunity Office. He also has served as Manager of Government Relations for Mirage Resorts, Inc.

In past elections, Romero has served as a political consultant specializing in Hispanic affairs for U.S. Senators Harry Reid and Richard Bryan, Governor Bob Miller, and many others.

DIANA SALAZAR -- SOUTH CAROLINA HISPANIC OUTREACH COORDINATOR

Diana Salazar has been an activist in South Carolina for over 20 years. Most recently, Salazar organized the first immigration march in South Carolina history. Her office provides translation services for various legal entities, including the courts, and for various Latino community organizations. Diana has been an Administrative Assistant in the Legislative Delegation Office for eight Senators and thirteen House members in downtown Charleston and currently is the President of The Latino Association of Charleston.

JOSE ALEJANDRO URRUTIA -- NEW HAMPSHIRE HISPANIC OUTREACH COORDINATOR

Alejandro Urrutia has worked as a medical researcher and as the Community Outreach Director for the American Red Cross of Massachusetts Bay. He currently is the director of a health and safety consulting firm.

ANNETTE TORRES -- IOWA HISPANIC OUTREACH COORDINATOR

Annette Torres has been a community activist for many years. She was a VISTA volunteer for AmeriCorps, providing leadership to community organizations and public agencies to create and expand programs that build capacity and ultimately bring low-income individuals and communities out of poverty.

Torres has worked on campaigns in Arizona, Texas, Colorado, and Maryland. A graduate of the University of Texas at El Paso, she also sits on the Advisory Board for the Paseo del Norte Civil Rights Project in El Paso.