Richardson: 4 states will decide nominee

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By HENRY C. JACKSON, Associated Press Writer 10 minutes ago

DES MOINES, Iowa - {snipped}

"I believe the first four states, with Iowa and New Hampshire being the top ones, will determine who the president is. I always felt that way," Richardson said Sunday in an interview with The Associated Press as he wrapped up a two-day visit to Iowa.

Richardson spoke over breakfast in downtown Des Moines at the end of a packed weekend that included a half-dozen house parties, meetings with party leaders and time with Iowa bloggers.

"I have my own plan to convince the voters I'm the best candidate," he said. "It's called grass-roots campaigning. You know, debates, issues and discussions."

"What the pundits say about who's in, who's out, who's got the most money doesn't matter," Richardson said. "I have a sustained plan to introduce myself to the voters ... and so far I feel very satisfied. I feel I can do very well."

"I am emphasizing that I'm a governor who actually gets things done," he said.

"The main message I got was, 'Iowans are open.'" he said. "They resent that the media has created a myth that two candidates are the only serious ones. My impression is that Iowans take their role as the first caucus very seriously and they're going to scrutinize all candidates."

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070304/ap_on_el_pr/richardson_interview_1