Richardson To Commerce?

CBS News has confirmed that New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson is a serious contender to be tapped for Commerce Secretary. Richardson, a 2008 presidential candidate, had been on many lists for Secretary of State but that position appears to be New York Senator Hillary Clinton's if she chooses. CBS reported yesterday that the transition is on track to possibly make that announcement soon after Thanksgiving.

Richardson is currently in his second term as governor of New Mexico and would bring a broad resume of government service to the administration. He has served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, has been Energy Secretary and the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Washingtonpost.com's Chris Cillizza, who first reported the possibility of the governor going to the Commerce Department, notes that the post was thought to be going to President-elect Obama's former campaign finance chair and friend Penny Pritzker, but she removed herself from consideration yesterday.