Bill Richardson Raises Eyebrows With Talk of James Baker
New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson raised some eyebrows on Wednesday when he mentioned former Secretary of State James Baker as a possible pick for Middle East Envoy if he were elected president.
“I could see myself sending former Secretary of State James Baker if I were president,” Richardson told reporters, saying he would pursue bipartisanship.
Richardson was answering questions after speaking at a National Jewish Democrat Council forum of candidates. During his speech, Richardson said he would send envoys to trouble spots even before he was inaugurated.
For those who need reminding … running in 2004, John Kerry found himself backpedaling after mentioning Baker and former President Jimmy Carter, each of whom has been famously critical of Israel, as potential envoys.
Why I became the Forward’s Editor-in-Chief
You are surely a friend of the Forward if you’re reading this. And so it’s with excitement and awe — of all that the Forward is, was, and will be — that I introduce myself to you as the Forward’s newest editor-in-chief.
And what a time to step into the leadership of this storied Jewish institution! For 129 years, the Forward has shaped and told the American Jewish story. I’m stepping in at an intense time for Jews the world over. We urgently need the Forward’s courageous, unflinching journalism — not only as a source of reliable information, but to provide inspiration, healing and hope.
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
