Why do the good people in New Mexico support this clintonista (at least a majority I suppose)?
Don't they remember?
See post #3. The reasons are there. Point 4), especially is relevant. A booming oil and natural gas industry (in spite of Richardson's buds in the environmental movement attempting to kill the golden goose) and the state rolling in dough makes him look good, even though he spends like a homeless drunk who found a new $20 bill.
Many millions for a state-owned railroad, many more for a spaceport, new programs, lots of perks for government union types, eliminates taxes on food, etc. All passed with the help of a Democrat-controlled legislature. His cronies get prime jobs, any opponents, even Democrats, are politically punished by vetos on projects for their home districts, regardless of need. This guy learned well from watching Slick Willie.
NM has a 48% Hispanic population, and Richardson's not been doing that bad of a job, as far as anyone can see. He is well liked. Sometimes I wonder even if they knew some of the things he had done, if they'd excuse it and give him a pass. NM politics have always been shady.