Ann Richards dies at 73

Former Gov. Ann Richards, who blended searing wit with political savvy in a career that stretched from Austin to the national stage, died Wednesday night at her Austin home, her family said. She was 73.

Richards was diagnosed with cancer of the esophagus in March.

The family said that as governor Ms. Richards was most proud of two actions that probably cost her re-election: She vetoed legislation that would have allowed people to carry concealed handguns and "cop-killer bullets," and she vetoed a bill that would have allowed the destruction of the environment over the Edwards Aquifer.

With her trademark helmet of white hair and a wide grin, Ms. Richards burst onto the national stage at the 1988 Democratic National Convention with a withering put-down of presumptive GOP presidential nominee George H.W. Bush.
"Poor George," Ms. Richards drawled, "he can't help it. He was born with a silver foot in his mouth."

A refreshing politician who always spoke her mind. She could serve as a go0d role model for today's Democrats.

May she rest in peace.