Billy Sparks "to pursue other opportunities" on Feb. 1.

 

The man political blogger Joe Monahan calls Gov. Bill Richardson's "alter ego" -- Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications Billy Sparks -- has decided to step off the governor's bullet train to the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination and leave the administration as of Feb. 1.

Monahan scooped us all in his "New Mexico Politics with Joe Monahan" blog this morning, hinting at some stormy and tempestuous times and even some recent iciness in Sparks' relationship with the high-powered, high-pressure Richardson.

"It's time for a break. I will leave next week," the 53-year-old Sparks told Monahan.

The Governor's Office, also scooped, put out a news release around noon today, confirming Sparks' departure next week.

Sparks said it was a privilege and honor to serve "one of the most dynamic governors in America," whom he thanked for the chance to serve, according to the release.

Even with the short notice, Sparks said in the release: "It is a decision that I have thought about for some time and the right one for me at this moment."

The governor, for his part, said he wanted to thank Sparks for "his hard work, his enthusiasm and constant optimism," pointing out in the release that Sparks was the first person he appointed to his administration following his 2002 election victory.

"He has been a creative voice in my administration," Richardson said in the release. "He is a friend, and that will not change."

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