Iconic Aussie Politician Graham Richardson Dies at 76
Former Labor senator, powerbroker, and political commentator Graham “Richo” Richardson has passed away at the age of 76. Tributes have poured in following the news of his death, which came just days after he vowed to hold on until his son completed his HSC exams.
Political Career and Influence
Richardson served as a cabinet minister in the Hawke and Keating governments and was a Labor senator representing New South Wales throughout his parliamentary career. He played a key role in the 1991 Labor leadership coup that replaced Bob Hawke with then-Treasurer Paul Keating.
Later Life and Passing
After leaving politics, Richardson became a well-known political commentator and frequent contributor to Sky News Australia. He had battled various health problems for several years before his death early on Saturday.
“When he had his big health challenge, he said to his wife Amanda, ‘I’m going to live till I see Darcy finish exams and his HSC’,” said 2GB host Ben Fordham. “Darcy did his last HSC exam on Thursday, which was his French exam. And Richo died this morning.”
Fordham revealed Richardson had struggled with influenza, pneumonia, and was undergoing dialysis prior to his passing.
Legacy
Graham Richardson remains remembered as a pivotal figure in Australian Labor politics and a persistent voice in political commentary.
Author's summary: Graham Richardson, influential Labor senator and commentator, died aged 76 after battling health issues, fulfilling his vow to see his son complete final exams.