Iconic Aussie Politician Graham “Richo” Richardson Dies at 76
Graham “Richo” Richardson, a former Labor senator, influential political strategist, and commentator, has passed away at the age of 76. Tributes are flooding in for the controversial figure who played a key role in Australian politics for decades.
Political Career and Influence
Richardson served as a cabinet minister during the Hawke and Keating governments and represented New South Wales as a Labor senator throughout his parliamentary career. He was a pivotal figure in the 1991 Labor leadership coup that saw Bob Hawke replaced by then-Treasurer Paul Keating.
Later Years and Media Work
After leaving politics, Richardson became a well-known political commentator and was a regular contributor to Sky News Australia. He battled serious health problems in his final years.
Final Days and Tribute
“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.”
Richardson passed away early on Saturday after enduring bouts of influenza, pneumonia, and undergoing dialysis. Despite his health issues, he held on to witness his son D’Arcy complete his final exams.
Summary
Graham Richardson was a formidable Labor Party powerbroker whose political legacy and dedication to family left a lasting impact on Australian public life.
Would you like the summary to be more formal or conversational?