Former top US diplomat Bill Richardson dies aged 75

Former top US diplomat Bill Richardson dies aged 75

Bill Richardson, a former US ambassador to the United Nations, energy secretary, and governor of New Mexico, died on Tuesday at the age of 75.

Richardson's death was announced by his family, who said he died of natural causes at his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

"Bill Richardson was a giant of New Mexico politics and a respected diplomat and public servant," said New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. "He was a tireless advocate for his constituents and a champion for peace and justice around the world."

Richardson was born in Pasadena, California, in 1947. He graduated from Tufts University and the University of Texas School of Law.

He began his political career in New Mexico, serving in the state House of Representatives from 1978 to 1982 and the state Senate from 1983 to 1988.

In 1988, Richardson was elected governor of New Mexico. He served two terms, during which he focused on economic development and education reform.

In 1996, Richardson was appointed ambassador to the United Nations by President Bill Clinton. He served in that role until 1998, when he was appointed energy secretary.

As energy secretary, Richardson oversaw the development of the Natural Gas Act of 1999, which helped to promote the use of natural gas as a cleaner alternative to oil.

In 2000, Richardson was elected governor of New Mexico for a second term. He served until 2003, when he was appointed UN ambassador again by President George W. Bush.

As UN ambassador, Richardson helped to negotiate the release of several hostages, including two American journalists held in North Korea.

In 2008, Richardson ran for president of the United States as a Democrat. He withdrew from the race after he was accused of accepting campaign contributions from a donor who was later convicted of corruption.

After leaving politics, Richardson worked as a lawyer and consultant. He also served as the chairman of the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs.

Richardson was a complex and controversial figure. He was a skilled diplomat and a tireless advocate for his constituents, but he was also accused of ethics violations and political opportunism.

Despite his flaws, Richardson was a respected figure in American politics. He will be remembered for his commitment to public service and his dedication to making the world a better place.

**Richardson's legacy**

Bill Richardson's legacy is complex and multifaceted. He was a successful politician who served in a variety of high-profile positions, including governor of New Mexico, ambassador to the United Nations, and energy secretary. He was also a skilled diplomat who helped to negotiate the release of several hostages.

However, Richardson was also a controversial figure. He was accused of ethics violations and political opportunism. He was also criticized for his close ties to some of the world's most powerful dictators.

Despite his flaws, Richardson was a dedicated public servant who made significant contributions to American diplomacy. He will be remembered as a complex and controversial figure who left a lasting mark on the world.

**Tributes to Richardson**

Richardson's death was met with tributes from world leaders and politicians alike.

"Bill Richardson was a true American patriot and public servant," said President Joe Biden. "He dedicated his life to making the world a better place, and he will be remembered for his work on behalf of peace, justice, and human rights."

"Bill Richardson was a force for good in the world," said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. "He was a brilliant diplomat and a tireless advocate for the UN. His passing is a great loss to the world."

"Bill Richardson was a friend and a mentor to me," said New Mexico Senator Martin Heinrich. "He was a brilliant politician and a dedicated public servant. He will be deeply missed."

Richardson's legacy will continue to be debated for years to come. However, there is no doubt that he was a complex and influential figure who made a significant impact on the world.