DID HE, OR DIDN'T HE?

Inconsistencies, discrepancies and distortions are campaign rhetorical
staples. While such misleading language is expected of a politician seeking
an edge on his opponent, it is prohibitive while extolling a candidate's
espousal of such lofty ideals as moral integrity.

First lady Hillary Rodham Clinton is pilloried as too activist for her
medical reform initiative. Laura Bush is lauded as a stereotypical,
unassuming hostess. Yet during the 1992 presidential campaign, Elizabeth
Dole, a former Cabinet member, was ballyhooed to the very rafters for her
assertiveness.

Dick Cheney is hailed as a brilliant choice for a vice presidential running
mate. But when questions arise regarding his less than "compassionate
conservatism," the response is, "The electorate doesn't vote for a vice
presidential candidate." That same Cheney says that George W. Bush will
restore moral integrity to the White House.

Where was moral integrity when in the Reagan White House, "hero" Oliver
North shredded documents?

Where was moral integrity in Nixon's White House?

Where was moral integrity in the abuse of trust by Spiro Agnew?

Where was moral integrity in Eisenhower's White House during the McCarthy
era abuses?

If Bush would be president and restore moral integrity to the Oval Office,
then he should answer one simple question: "Did you ever abuse drugs?" The
electorate has a right to know.

Edward Mitchell, Douglas