Former New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson passed away on Sept. 1. He was 75 years old.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham released a statement about the former governor's passing:

“New Mexico, our country, and, frankly, the entire world lost a champion today. Bill Richardson was a titan among us, fighting for the little guy, world peace, and everything in between," Lujan Grisham said.

She spoke about what Richardson accomplished for the state of New Mexico.

“He was a visionary who saw the potential of our great state before so many others did. He saw us taking on Hollywood and reaching for the stars, launching both the film and space industries that continue to reap significant economic benefits today. His reputation preceded him around the globe: Bill Richardson is someone who gets things done," Lujan Grisham said.

She also said that Richardson served as a sort of mentor for her.

“For my own part, Bill was a mentor and advisor who was instrumental in my own journey into elected office. He was a steadfast friend who celebrated my successes, and someone I could turn to in those moments when leading is particularly challenging," she said. “I am immeasurably grateful to have known such a giant among men."

Lujan Grisham also offered her condolences to Richardson's family.

“I offer my most sincere condolences to his wife, Barbara, his family, friends and all those who had the honor of working with him over the years to make our world a better place for all," Lujan Grisham said.

Richardson began his political career as a aide to then-Massachusetts Rep. Frank Bradford Morse before becoming a staff member for the U.S. State Department and Senate Foreign Relations Committee in the 1970s.

He was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1983, representing New Mexcio's Third District. He later served as an U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and secretary of energy before getting elected as governor of New Mexico in 2002.

Richardson served two terms before he left office in 2011.