Democratic vice presidential candidates

Bill Richardson

The pitch
New Mexico Governor Richardson, a former ambassador to the UN under Bill Clinton, has stood toe-to-toe at the bargaining table with the likes of Saddam Hussein and Kim Jong-Il. Under his watch as governor, New Mexico's economy has grown impressively -- no small feat in an election sure to be shaped by economic fears. In addition, Richardson's geographic location and race (he's Latino) could sway voters in his home state as well as in the nearby battlegrounds of Nevada and Colorado.

The downside
Richardson didn't fare too well with voters in his first go at the White House this year. His support of the death penalty and gun rights may scare off some Democrats.
(Globe Staff)
Bill Richardson The pitch New Mexico Governor Richardson, a former ambassador to the UN under Bill Clinton, has stood toe-to-toe at the bargaining table with the likes of Saddam Hussein and Kim Jong-Il. Under his watch as governor, New Mexico's economy has grown impressively -- no small feat in an election sure to be shaped by economic fears. In addition, Richardson's geographic location and race (he's Latino) could sway voters in his home state as well as in the nearby battlegrounds of Nevada and Colorado. The downside Richardson didn't fare too well with voters in his first go at the White House this year. His support of the death penalty and gun rights may scare off some Democrats.