I have nothing more than a gut feeling, but my money is on Gov. Bill Richardson opting to sign a bill that would make New Mexico the 15th state to repeal the death penalty.
For the politically savvy and embattled governor, there’s nearly every reason in the world to sign the bill — from a political standpoint — and few to veto it.
The Senate sent House Bill 285, sponsored by Rep. Gail Chasey, D-Albuquerque, to the governor today on a vote of 24-18. It’s the most significant legislation to head the governor’s desk so far this session.
Richardson put out a statement that says he’s still undecided on whether he’ll sign the bill.
“This is an extremely difficult issue that deserved the serious and thoughtful debate it received in the Legislature,” Richardson said. “I have met with many people and will continue to consider all sides of the issue before making a decision.”
Richardson has opposed the death penalty repeal in the past, but he now says his stance is softening.
Which is the first clue he will sign it. Think about it. A governor dogged by pay-to-play allegations and still stinging from his failed bid to join the Obama administration needs a big win. Signing the bill would earn him positive international attention, while vetoing the bill would do the opposite.
The last time Richardson was on the internationally unpopular side of such an issue — cockfighting — Jay Leno made fun of him. And Richardson switched sides.
In addition, progressives are taking increasing control of state and federal government, and Richardson has failed to deliver on some of their biggest issues, including domestic partner benefits and universal health care. His success in pushing their desired ethics reforms has been mediocre, at best.
Though ending capital punishment isn’t only a progressive issue, the signing of this bill would be a big win for progressives.
It’s no secret that Richardson can be swayed. The master of shrewd political moves has come back from scandal before, and he could do it again (assuming, of course, that he isn’t indicted in the ongoing federal grand jury probe). Signing this bill would be quite shrewd at this moment in America’s political history and in Richardson’s career.
The governor has until Tuesday to act on the bill. He has set up a hotline — (505) 476-2225 — for people who want to share their opinion on the bill. People can also e-mail the governor through his Web site. The governor’s office says staff will work throughout the weekend to tally people’s positions and “provide the governor with the options.”
Don’t expect Richardson to act before Tuesday. He’s also a master at getting press. The suspense around this bill will earn him plenty. But when he does act, don’t be surprised if he signs the bill and puts an end to capital punishment in New Mexico.