March 22, 2008 Richardson endorses Obama, praises him for speech on race Play video

(NECN) - Presidential candidate Barack Obama picked up the endorsement of Bill Richardson on Friday. Richardson is the only Hispanic governor, and a former presidential candidate. The endorsement is of special note because Richardson held two high level posts in Bill Clinton’s administration.

NECN’s Brad Puffer has more.

Script:

It is a much-needed endorsement at a critical time in the Obama campaign. Obama continues to battle criticism over divisive remarks by his former pastor.

It had been one of the most sought after endorsements remaining in the Democratic race. On Friday, the nations only Hispanic governor threw his support behind Senator Barack Obama.

“Your candidacy is a once in a lifetime opportunity for our nation and you are a once in a lifetime leader"

At a rally in Portland, Oregon the former presidential candidate - once a part of the Clinton administration - praised Obama for his major address this week on race.

"Senator Obama showed us again what kind of leader he is. As an Hispanic-American, I was particularly touched by his words."

Richardson had been wooed by both campaigns for his role as a superdelegate and his potential influence with Hispanic voters - a group that has so far favored Hillary Clinton.

"But what is important to remember is, I don't think any single endorsement will make a difference."

Former Massachusetts State Senator Jarrett Barrios - a Clinton supporter himself

"I think what he is feeling right now, is the need to change the conversation, to talk about the issue he started this campaign with, the subjects that unite people."

"Everywhere we go we are seeing Americans come together - Americans who want a new chapter, to turn a page..."

Now it is Obama who looks to turn a page in his own campaign - while Obama says it is time to unite the party.

"I do not want to see us bloodied and bruised from this process because Senator McCain will be a formidable candidate."

Richardson isn’t the only former candidate to make an endorsement. Senator Chris Dodd of Connecticut has also endorsed Obama. John Edwards has stayed neutral so far.