WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall (D-NM) today issued the following statement, which will also be read at the memorial service for former Gov. David Cargo.
“Dave Cargo holds a special place in the annals of our state and in our hearts. He was much more than New Mexico’s youngest governor. He led our state with uncommon gifts. Dave had a compassion for people that knew no bounds. He was bold. He was visionary. And he was always willing to reach across the aisle. He governed our state during a time of great turbulence, and he did so with a composure and wisdom far beyond his years.
“Most of us cannot remember not knowing Dave. My family has valued his friendship for many years. He was governor when my father was Secretary of the Interior. They worked together on returning Blue Lake to the Taos Pueblo. That is just one of Dave’s legacies, and there are many others, including the Human Rights Commission and the first state film commission in the nation. And just as important, Dave was a model for all of us in public life—for reaching out to everyone, whatever their party, their background, or their status.
“Dave was a friend of New Mexico, and a friend to each of us. And like any good friend, he made us better for having known him. One thing stays with me as I remember Dave – whenever he entered a room, he was smiling. And by the time he left, he had you smiling too.
“Jill and I will miss Dave, and we extend our sincere sympathy to the Cargo family. As we say goodbye to him now, there is sorrow at his passing. But, I believe he would be pleased to know, he has us smiling again—as we remember his remarkable life, his good humor, and his unfailing grace."
