New Mexico governor Bill Richardson, left, talks with Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter at the Rockingham County Democrats Clambake Sunday, May 6, 2007 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. (Don Clark photo / SMG)

New Mexico governor Bill Richardson attended the Rockingham County Democrats Clambake Sunday, May 6, 2007 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. (Don Clark photo / SMG)

Bill Richardson Governor, NM Born: 11/15/1947 Birthplace: Pasedena, CA Home: Santa Fe, NM Religion: Catholic >> Website >> Forum >> Related Stories Coming Events

PORTSMOUTH — It sounded a lot like a pep rally, though the event at which presidential hopeful Bill Richardson spoke Sunday was actually the annual clambake for the Rockingham County Democratic Committee at the Portsmouth Elks Club.

"There's just an excitement that I have not seen before," said Lenore Patton, chairwoman of the committee. "Everything this year is bigger and louder and more enthusiastic. I've never seen anything like it."

The New Mexico governor, the keynote speaker, brought the crowd of nearly 200 to its feet at the beginning and end of his talk, eliciting numerous rounds of applause as he outlined his plans for the presidency.

Lucy Edwards, chairwoman of the Northwood Democratic Committee, said she was leaning toward voting for Sen. John Edwards when she arrived, but changed her mind after listening to Richardson talk about civil rights.

Still, she said, there are nine months to go.

"It might change," she said.

Lee-Ann Larson of Portsmouth said Richardson will now get her vote.

"He's a very plain-spoken man and I like his ideas," she said.

Paul O'Connor of Somersworth, president of the Metal Trades Council at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, said he is pleased with Richardson's support of unions.

"So far, to me, he has the most comprehensive agenda to get the working-class folks back on track," O'Connor said.

Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter and three Democratic Senate hopefuls also spoke at the clambake.

"We've got great candidates. We're on (a) roll. It's our time," Patton said.