Governor Richardson pulls out of Secretary of Commerce nomination process

Governor Bill Richardson of New Mexico has decided to pull out of the nomination process for U.S. Secretary of Commerce.

Unfortunately, this decision has come on the heels of an investigation into his administration and its dealings with a state contracted company.  The investigation will question campaign contributions by a California company that would later receive municipal bond business in New Mexico.

Hopefully this probe will only show that the California Company’s contributions to the Richardson campaign had nothing to do with its landing of the state contract.

It saddens me to see another Latino stepping down from the national spotlight because of an investigation into ethics.  I hope that this and past events do not permanently tarnish the image of Latino professionals and our ability overcome adversity and maintain our integrity.