Legislators grade the governor

Legislators from Curry and Roosevelt Counties graded the performance of Gov. Bill Richardson — some with ambivalence, because Richardson’s term is not yet over. Richardson is a Democrat.

The next general election is Nov. 7.

Sen. Clinton D. Harden, R-Clovis: “I give him a C+ for providing better services. There is growth in state government, but those with access aren’t getting the best product at the price available.”

Sen. Gay G. Kernan, R-Hobbs: “Giving him a grade is not something I have the right to do. That’s up to the people of New Mexico and they’ll do that next year at the ballot box. He’s done good things for the state.”

Rep. Jose Campos, D-Santa Rosa: “I give him an A. He’s done a great job promoting the state. He’s done a good job cutting taxes. He traveled around the state and lobbied hard for Cannon. He’s the hardest working elected official in the state for Cannon. No one has worked as hard.”

Rep. Anna M. Crook, R-Clovis: “I don’t think I want to do that (give Richardson a grade). There’s lots of reasons why. He hasn’t finished his term, there’s still things to be seen.”

Rep. Brian Moore, R- Clayton: “Overall, I give him a B. I think the governor gets an A in political skills — he is fun to watch. He is good at communicating with people. I give him a C for his relationship with the Legislature — though it’s better than we’ve had with past governors — there is an obvious tension occurring between the legislature and the governor; he could communicate with us better. His work with BRAC has been phenomenal.”

Rep. Keith Gardner, R-Roswell: “The result of the 30-day session and how he interacts with the Legislature will be the final exam in how his grade is determined. I’m concerned about how much he’s promised to so many people and if we can afford it. I’ll be glad to give a grade after the Legislative session— but he may need some tutoring.”

Sen. Stuart Ingle, R-Portales, chose not to comment.