Garrey Carruthers, former Governor

“Governor Bruce King was always a delight to work with when I served as Governor.  Steve Reynolds, the great State Engineer, had passed away toward the end of my term and I had stated that I would run the search process and that the candidate who won the election (race was between Governor King and Frank Bond) would join me in naming a person to this post.  Bruce and I agreed upon Eloy Martinez who served with distinction. During my time, Bruce also always adhered to an unwritten rule that former Governor’s did not criticize sitting Governors.  To my knowledge, he never violated this rule.”

Jack Swickard, former Editor of the Albuquerque Times

"Bruce King was unfailingly courteous and brought out the best in people, even when he was in an election contest with them. At political events, Bruce made a point of visiting with his opponents and asking them about their family members by name. Politics was not a blood sport for Bruce King. I always suspected Bruce got involved in politics so he could meet people. He was always happy and energized when running for office."

Walter Bradley, former Lieutenant Governor

“Of course I knew Governor King many years before I had the privilege of serving as state Senator in the last 2 years of his final term as Governor. Everyone knew of his great memory for names and his friendly, outgoing nature. When I served as a Republican Senator Governor King made a point of calling me to congratulate me and made it known that his door was always open to me. He invited me to discuss issues with him as I needed. I remember I was sponsoring a bill that had some controversy and I went to the Governor to see if he would support it. In that meeting he told me he supported it. As the bill was about to pass its last vote I touched base with Governor King and now he indicated he may have problems with it. I was shocked and reminded him of our previous conservation when he told me he supported it. His response was classic he said "Now Walter, a promise is not a commitment!"  I started laughing as did he because I had heard this before but never thought it would be used on me. I then asked what I needed to get him to sign it and we made a minor change to the bill and he did sign it.  Governor King certainly had a very unique way of governing!”

Donald Carter

“What I remember most about Bruce King is that once he was elected to office he forgot what party be belonged to. I am a Farmer/Rancher in Quay County and he was fair to all New Mexicans. Bruce was a true statesman and a moral and honest man. I was honored to know him.”