Bill Richardson, 75-year-old globe-trotting US diplomat, passes away

Bill Richardson, a veteran Democratic politician and former US ambassador to the United Nations, has died at age 75. Richardson was known for negotiating the release of Americans detained around the world and was one of the highest-profile Latinos in US politics. He was also involved in efforts that led to the release of US basketball star Brittney Griner from a Russian prison. Richardson was praised for his dedication to public service and his ability to speak with anyone if it meant returning a person to freedom.

Bill Richardson, a prominent Democratic politician and former US ambassador to the United Nations, has passed away at the age of 75. Known for his extensive efforts in negotiating the release of Americans detained worldwide, Richardson was also a former governor of New Mexico and US energy secretary. His death occurred peacefully in his sleep on Friday night, as confirmed by the Richardson Center for Global Engagement.

Richardson was widely recognized as one of the most influential Latinos in American politics. He earned the nickname "Indiana Jones" of US diplomacy for his daring encounters with leaders on the US pariah list, such as Saddam Hussein, Fidel Castro, and Nicolas Maduro. Notably, he played a role in securing the release of US basketball star Brittney Griner from a Russian prison.

Described as a titan in New Mexico and beyond, Richardson's legacy was celebrated by his colleagues and mentees. Gabe Vasquez, a Democratic member of Congress from New Mexico, praised Richardson's impact on politics, highlighting his position as one of the most powerful Hispanics in the nation.

Throughout his career, Richardson faced criticism for his freelance activism, which some US officials believed could undermine official efforts. However, the Richardson Center emphasized that Richardson was willing to engage with anyone if it meant bringing freedom to those wrongfully detained or held hostage.

Born on November 15, 1947, Richardson displayed an early talent for baseball and was drafted as a pitcher by the Kansas City Royals. When his professional sports career didn't materialize, he pursued a Master's degree at Tufts University's Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. In 2007, Richardson became the first Latino to run for the US presidency, eventually backing Barack Obama as the Democratic candidate.

Despite his successes in freeing hostages and prisoners, Richardson faced criticism from human rights activists who accused him of legitimizing unsavory regimes. Richardson, however, maintained that his goal was to make a difference rather than legitimize governments.

Bill Richardson's death marks the end of an era for American diplomacy and politics. His dedication to public service and his tireless efforts to secure the release of those wrongfully detained abroad will be remembered as his lasting legacy.