In or Out? Conflicting Reports on Richardson

New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson's campaign refused to publicly confirm or deny reports that he plans to announce his departure from the race for the Democratic presidential nomination.

(ABC News Photo Illustration)

The Associated Press reported that Richardson was dropping out after distant fourth-place finishes in the Iowa Democratic caucus and New Hampshire Democratic primary, and planned to officially announce his decision Thursday (Click HERE for that report).

Though Richardson spokesman Pahl Shipley, reached by ABC News affiliate KOAT in Albequerque, N.M., would not comment on the AP report, one of Richardson's competitors wished him well.

"He was a very good candidate, a serious candidate," former Sen. John Edwards told reporters in South Carolina. "He ran a good race. I congratulate him. He ought to be proud of what he's done."