Obama's First Corruption Casualty - Bill Richardson

Today, Barack Obama's nominee for Secretary of Commerce, Bill Richardson, removed himself from consideration due to an ongoing federal investigation into possible public corruption.

Bill Richardson announced he intends to remain as Governor of New Mexico. Obama released a statement saying he looks forward to Richardson's service as a Governor and within his administration.

At present, it is believed that Richardson's removal as Commerce Secretary nominee is only because the FBI cannot speed up an investigation involving allegations of public contracts given special preference by Richardson to his campaign donors. This storyline assumes Richardson is Innocent and it is only a matter of time before being cleared.

Politically, it's a good opportunity for Obama to re-balance his team. He could add another woman to the post, previously Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm (D) had been mentioned for this post. Or any other talent set or demographic that seems lacking.

One does wonder at the incompetence displayed by Obama transition team in picking someone under a federal investigation. The investigation became public in August, 2008. "Change" stumbles out of the gate.