In a midnight email to the supporters of his former presidential bid, New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson endorsed U.S. Sen. Barack Obama today. Richardson, a popular Western governor and a Latino, was a highly-sought after endorser, with both campaigns keeping in constant contact with him since he ended his own run in January.

Richardson credited Obama’s race speech as the tipping point:

“As a Hispanic, I was particularly touched by his words. I have been troubled by the demonization of immigrants–specifically Hispanics– by too many in this country. Hate crimes against Hispanics are rising as a direct result and now, in tough economic times, people look for scapegoats and I fear that people will continue to exploit our racial differences–and place blame on others not like them.

“Senator Obama has started a discussion in this country long overdue and rejects the politics of pitting race against race. He understands clearly that only by bringing people together, only by bridging our differences can we all succeed together as Americans.”