WASHINGTON (AFP) - One day after Senator Hillary Clinton tossed her hat into the 2008 presidential race, the crowded field of US presidential contenders expanded, setting up a pitched battle for donors and support.

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson joined the growing list of Democratic contenders Sunday, announcing on ABC television's "This Week" program that he would form a presidential exploratory committee.

Richardson, a former US ambassador to the United Nations and energy secretary, is seeking to become the first Hispanic to occupy the White House.

His announcement however, was overshadowed this weekend by Clinton's long-anticipated entry into the race, setting up what promises to be one of the most exciting and groundbreaking political contests in US history.

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