Reply #161: First, public discussion (this kind of talk) is not the problem.

[Deep13]

Richardson is free to endorse whom he wishes. I don't think he is beholding to HC because Bill made him sec. of energy or an ambassador. Presumably the administration and the country benefitted for Richardson's ability just as Richardson's resume benefitted from the assignments. Nevertheless, the tradition of patronage based on personal loyalty dies hard. That tradition extends back to classical times and even further to neolithic tribal society. The careers of men like Julius Caesar were grounded on favors others owed to him. So I understand the anger even if it is not necessarily justified.

On the other hand, the idea that this is doing what is right is pretty foolish too. Richardson is doing his best to continue his ladder-climb. He feels his best bet is with Obama. He probably believes O will win the nomination. Also, it is possible that a postion in the administration he wants has already been promised to someone else by HC. So Richardson's end of this is pretty political too in the sense that it is jockying for position.