Indian Country Today all but endorses New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson as Vice President for the Democratic ticket.

After dismissing other possible candidates, ICT praises the "articulate" Richardson and his "excellent Indian relations." "In New Mexico, after nearly two years in office, he upholds a solid reputation as a doer who works diligently to fulfill his promises," the paper says. "He has improved education, cut taxes and is credited for strongly stimulating a high-wage economy."

But the real drawing power is that Richardson is Hispanic, according to ICT. "It appears a candidacy rich with a political personality that could perhaps address that completely American and patriotic population represented by Latino/Hispanics, American Indians and the great overlapping ethnicity now emerging in the American political scene," the paper says.

Richardson has made light of a possible VP nomination but has basked in the attention he has received from the national media. He repeatedly says he will serve out his term in New Mexico and will seek re-election there.

ICT has not endorsed anyone for president.

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2004 Ruminations: Considering a vice president (Indian CountrY Today 2/20)