Richardson: "Blessedly Peaceful" And Not Endorsing ... Yet

Watching the candidates debate in South Carolina last night, I couldn't help but be struck by how much their positions have come around to the positions that you and I hold dear. It is now clear that ending this war and bringing our troops home will be a priority for any Democratic President. As will energy independence and universal health care -- issues we led the way on here in New Mexico. And now all of them are talking about improving education and providing scholarships for public service. It was like I was still in the debate!

So while we may not have been successful in electing me the Democratic candidate for President, we were very successful in influencing the Democratic platform in important ways. I'm proud of that accomplishment. And you should be, too.

There's one last issue I still need your help on before I can officially end my presidential bid. Right now we still have an outstanding debt. We spent that money in those last few frenzied weeks in Iowa and New Hampshire trying to capitalize on the fluid poll numbers. Given how high the stakes were, I'm sure we would do the same thing given the same situation again. Will you please make one final contribution to my campaign so we can officially "zero out" that debt?

I recognize that it's a hard thing to do with the nomination no longer on the line. But I believe it is essential that the final act of our campaign is to meet every outstanding obligation. And let me tell you one last time just how much your support has meant to me. Backing a presidential candidate is a serious, thoughtful act. And knowing that you considered all your options and chose me makes me very proud. Thank you once again.

All the best, Bill