The LuLac Edition #685, Jan. 4th, 2009

PHOTO INDEX: NEW MEXICO GOVERNOR BILL RICHARDSON.

HIT THE TRAIL

Commerce Secretary designate Bill Richardson has declined the job in the Obama administration. Richardson stepped aside because of an FBI probe in his state regarding contractors. Clinton nation supporters have to be happy with this development since they felt Richardson's endorsement of Obama was a slap in the face to the President he served. No word yet on whether Richardson will resurface once the probe ends.

IN VIRGINIA

Former Democratic National Committee chairman Terry McAuliffe said on Saturday he intends to run for governor of Virginia. After months of speculation over his plans, McAuliffe announced his intentions in a video posted on his Web site. In the video, McAuliffe said he will make his intention to run official on Wednesday as part of a week-long campaign kickoff. The funny thingabout Virginia is that it alternates parties when any given administration is in power. If that holds true, this might be a GOP year in the Old Dominion but experts say the state has trended toward the Dems. Worth watching for an off year election.