JESSICA SIMPSON - SIMPSON DINES WITH GOVERNOR

JESSICA SIMPSON took a break from filming her latest movie to dine with New Mexico governor BILL RICHARDSON at his mansion in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

The singer/actress is currently filming EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH in the city and was invited to dinner with the governor and his wife on Thursday night (23FEB06).

Simpson was joined at the mansion by her parents, studio executives and members of the governor's staff.

The dinner lasted two hours and included a menu of chicken roulade, potatoes and green chili-stuffed tomatoes.

Richardson spokesman PAUL SHIPLEY explained, "The governor feels very strongly about getting involved personally to promote New Mexico's film industry."