Let's face it, Hillary will be the Democratic nominee. What's less clear is who will become her running mate.
As a former senator, she will probably not choose another senator (like Sherrod Brown). After Paul Ryans less than impressive run in 2012 and considering the historical track records of US representatives, she will probably not choose a current house member.
Which leaves us with governors, mayors (like Castro, Villaroisa) and business people. The latter two categories being too inexperienced to be seriously considered.
So, it will be a governor or former governor.
It will probably be a man. It will probably not be a north easterner. It would be a good idea to choose an AA or Hispanic.
Which leaves us with exactly one (???) option:
Bill Richardson
- former governor of swing state
- reelected with highest vote share in NM history (68%)
- well-documented birth in California
- mexican mother, half-mexican father, grew up in Mexico until 13
- extensive foreign policy experience (US ambassador to UN, foreign missions, multiple successfull prisoner releases)
- nominated for Nobel Peace Price three times
- federal government experience as former Secretary of Energy
- 14 years in the House of Representatives (chair of Hispanic caucus)
- big time proponent of clean energy after his governorship (going the Al Gore Route)
- made strong efforts of reconciliation towards Indian tribes
- strong supporter of LGBT rights as governor, already when it wasn't popular
- abolished death penalty in New Mexico (the 2nd state to do so)
- legalized medical marijuana in 2007
- developed plans for nuclear waste disposal
- pro business
Ambivalent:
- has cut taxes
- self-declared gun-owner, in support of concealed gun permits
Negatives:
- allegations of pay-to-play in 2009 and 2012 (justice department didnt seek indictments)
- sometimes go-it-alone approach (North Korea visits)
- didn't handle nuclear espionage scandal well
What do you think? Are those negatives enough to disqualify him, or should Hillary seriously consider him?