Richardson's Physical Stuff
An Albuquerque Journal story on the touchy-feeliness of Gov. Bill Richardson hit some Hotline editors in a personal way. At least two of us have had ... close ... encounters with the gregarious gov.
In college, when I was a reporter for the Harvard Crimson, I approached then Sec/Energy Richardson in the spin room after a Gore/Bradley debate in January of 2000.
"Mr. Secretary," I began, "may I chat with you for a moment?"
He looked at me and smiled. "Who are you with?"
The Harvard Crimson, I answered.
And here Richardson reached out and grabbed me in a headlock and gave me a noogie. "Ooh, this guy wants to interview me," he growled.
After about five seconds, he mercifully released his grip and allowed me to interview him.
NB: I was also the recipient of physical affection from another Clinton cabinet secretary that same evening; then Sec/Education Richard Riley suddenly tickled my stomach at the conclusion of our brief interview. [MARC AMBINDER]