I agree with the idea that we shouldn't judge a candidate (or a person in general) by a few words that he/she may utter. I think Gov. Richardson was right to say that we should focus on actions--not on words. However, his inability to engage in the proper discourse reflective of a culturally competent and culturally sensitive leader is a definite red flag.

In regards to my withdrawal from supporting this campaign, for me, this was not an impulsive decision. This was the final straw--I have tried too often to justify his gaffes to myself and others throughout these debates. And simply put, he does not exhibit the type of composure or poise of an ideal President. Maybe in 2004, I would let these things slip, but this year, with a strengthened pack of candidates and far better choices, Richardson just doesn't make the cut. I do regret it, and I wish I could support him . . . but I will not. And I would venture to guess that other critical thinkers who have already decided to back away from Richardson feel the same way.

Finally, a President needs to be strong in his actions AND his words. He should accomplish tasks and create change, but he also needs to motivate the people to actually make these changes. And as an English teacher, I stress the importance of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. I even noticed grammatical errors on his Education position paper distributed to me at the last Arizona for Richardson meeting. That is simply unacceptable.

We need a role model. We can't have a(nother) President who cannot articulate intellectual thoughts. How can Richardson even take credit for performing all of his accomplishents as an executive, when he does not even understand common-sense concepts and questions? I see how people are attempting--as usual--to spin this detrimental error now. But forget it--after living under an abusive system for the past eight years, we won't be fooled this time.

It is obvious--Richardson is done.