From the moment Barack Obama won the election, we thought New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson was the right person to head the next administration’s State Department. We believed the post was an ideal way to leverage his extensive diplomatic experience, but things didn’t turn out that way.
Instead, Richardson has been named to head the Commerce Department, another position that demands a delicate international touch and has an impact on national economic welfare.
Rather than being viewed as a consolation prize for Richardson, who wanted to serve as Secretary of State, this appointment acknowledges his versatility, as demonstrated throughout his career in Congress and as governor.
Richardson was a key player in the legislative approval of the North American Free Trade Agreement in the 1990s. As governor, he actively promoted public-private investment and established close commercial ties with the Mexican border state of Chihuahua.
The appointment of Richardson shows Obama’s interest in revitalizing the sector with a person of creativity, great initiative and faith in the fundamental values of free trade.
At the same time, Richardson’s job will not be easy. He will have to apply his skills as a negotiator with the Democratic Party’s protectionist wing, which is resistant to trade agreements. We believe that one of his top priorities should be to conclude the agreement with Colombia and stimulate trade with Latin America.
Richardson is a valuable addition to the Cabinet and his voice of experience should be taken into account.
