Richardson Withdraws Name from Nomination

A story that is just beginning to unfold: Governor Bill Richardson is withdrawing his name from nomination for Secretary of Commerce. This news comes as a grand jury is investigating how a California company contributing to Richardson’s political activities won a $1 billion contract with the state of New Mexico.

Richardson, while denying any wrongdoing, is saying the investigation could be lengthy and he doesn’t want to delay the cabinet appointment. [S-T]