JUST IN: Former Governor Is Dead (PHOTO)

JUST IN: Former Governor Is Dead (PHOTO)

In this file photo taken on March 8, 2016, former New Mexico Governor and former US Ambassador to the United Nations Bill Richardson is seen speaking with US Cyber Defense Advisor to NATO Curtis Levinson during the forum “Is NATO Still Relevant in the 21st Century?” in Washington, DC. (Photo by Jim Watson / AFP)

Bill Richardson, a prominent Democratic figure and former US ambassador to the United Nations known for his diplomatic negotiations to secure the release of detained Americans worldwide, has passed away at the age of 75.

The Richardson Center for Global Engagement announced his peaceful passing in his sleep on Friday night.

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Richardson, who also served as the governor of New Mexico and the US energy secretary, was a highly visible figure in US politics, particularly as one of the most prominent Latinos in the field. He earned a reputation as the “Indiana Jones of US diplomacy” for his fearless and direct interactions with leaders on the US pariah list, such as Iraq’s Saddam Hussein and Cuba’s Fidel Castro.

In recent years, Richardson played a crucial role in securing the release of US basketball star Brittney Griner from a Russian prison after her conviction on a drug offense.

The Richardson Centre’s statement highlighted his lifelong dedication to serving others, both during his government service and his subsequent career focused on liberating hostages and individuals wrongfully detained abroad. It noted his willingness to engage with any person if it held the potential to bring freedom to those in captivity.