Richardson to seek release of American jailed in Cuba

[Judi Lynn]

Richardson to seek release of American jailed in Cuba
By the CNN Wire Staff
September 8, 2011 -- Updated 0525 GMT (1325 HKT)

Washington (CNN) -- Former New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson is going to Cuba on Wednesday to try to negotiate the release of jailed U.S. contractor Alan Gross, CNN has learned.

The exclusive report by CNN's Wolf Blitzer on "The Situation Room" said Richardson was invited by the Cuban government for the specific mission of trying to negotiate the release of Gross. Richardson is expected to spend "the next few days" in Havana, Blitzer reported.

"We are aware of Gov. Richardson's trip to Cuba and have been in contact with him," State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland told CNN. "While Governor Richardson is traveling as a private citizen, we certainly support his efforts to obtain Alan Gross' release."

A statement issued Wednesday on behalf of the Gross family said, "We are pleased that the Cuban government invited Gov. Richardson to Havana."

More:
http://edition.cnn.com/2011/US/09/07/richardson.cuba/index.html

[flamingdem]

1. He tried this and failed before. If you ask me there are two possible reasons for his trip

1. He has some new idea to float to entice the Cuban government (not the 5 however, doubt that will happen).
2. He has a hankering for Havana Club, Cuban cigars and maybe even a night out on the town dancing! (Most likely reason)

[roody]

2. Trade him for the Cuban 5!!

[flamingdem]

3. LOL Roody you have a brilliant idea!

As I figured, the Cuban government didn't want to take Richardson to Gross... and why would it be different this time?

SO ... what was he really there for? Not that I blame him one bit, Cuba is worthwhile.