LAS CRUCES, N.M. -- President-elect Barack Obama on Wednesday announced New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson for secretary of commerce.

That will create a unique transition in New Mexico state government.

There's a lot left to be done in New Mexico before Richardson can leave his state. The budget is one reason, and a 60-day session that starts next month.

Obama said Richardson is a leading economic diplomat for America.

"Bill Richardson is a leader who shares my values -- and he measures progress the same way I do,” said Obama.

"The catch phrases of your economic plan, investment, public private partnerships, green jobs, technology, broadband, climate change and research that is the Department of Commerce," said Richardson.

Analysts contemplated whether his Hispanic heritage played a role -- many said "yes".

“His ethnic background is certainly partly responsible. On the other hand, he is also qualified,” said Dr. Jose Garcia, professor of government at New Mexico State University.

“I think it was a reason but not the main. I think he is experienced and that’s what came first,” said Lawrence Madrid of Artesia.

The appointment creates a first of its kind midterm transition for a New Mexico governor.

For the first time in state history, a female will become governor, and no governor has left midterm.

“We're in brand new territory here because this has not happened before in modern history, so we don't know. It's likely to be a rather difficult transition,” said Garcia.

Garcia said it could be months before this transition happens, because Richardson does not want to leave until after the president is inaugurated.

“It may be middle of February or end of February before this happens. We'll be in the middle of a 60-day legislative session when this happens so the governor doesn't have time right now to devote to handing over the reins of power,” said Garcia.

Lt. Gov. Diane Denish will serve as governor when the transition does take place, until 2010.