Iconic Australian Politician Graham Richardson Dies Aged 76
Graham “Richo” Richardson, a former Labor senator, influential powerbroker, and political commentator, has passed away at the age of 76. Tributes have been flooding in following the news of his death.
Political Career and Influence
Richardson served as a cabinet minister during 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 leadership change within the Labor Party that replaced Prime Minister Bob Hawke with then-Treasurer Paul Keating.
Later Career and Final Days
After leaving politics, Richardson became a noted political commentator and was a frequent contributor on Sky News Australia. He had been battling health problems for several years and passed away 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.
Richardson's son, D’Arcy, completed his Higher School Certificate (HSC) exams on Thursday, including his final French exam. Richardson died shortly after his son’s achievement.
“Darcy did his last HSC exam on Thursday, which was his French exam. And Richo died this morning.”
Richardson had suffered from influenza, pneumonia, and was undergoing dialysis in recent years.
Summary
Graham Richardson was a pivotal figure in Australian Labor politics and continued influencing public discourse as a commentator until his death shortly after his son completed his exams.