Support strong for Elizabeth Dole in 2000

By KRISTA FLEDDERMAN
Collegian Staff Writer

When Elizabeth Dole announced Jan. 15 would be her last day as head of the American Red Cross, rumors began to circulate that a presidential bid is in her future.

"Elizabeth Dole represents someone, no matter what party (affiliation), we would be proud as Americans to have (her) run," said Margaret Kluttz, manager for the "Draft Elizabeth Dole 2000" campaign.

The goal of the campaign, based in Dole's hometown of Salisbury, N.C., is to encourage Dole to seek the presidential office by generating public support for her around the nation.

And so far, according to Patrick Pearson, campaign information officer, public response has been positive. E-mails have flooded the campaign's headquarters.

Petitions are being signed in every state across the country, Kluttz said.

"There is a good signal from her that she is considering (running for office)," Kluttz said, adding the campaign hopes to show Dole how deep the public support of her possible candidacy really is.

Steven Smith, president of the Penn State College Democrats, said a woman running for the presidency is long overdue.

"Elizabeth Dole is testing her political powers, and we will see soon what she stands for," Smith said.

Whether she is a Republican or Democrat, support for a woman running for office seems to be overwhelmingly positive.

Eric Deitrick, president of the Penn State Young Republicans, said, "It's great that a woman is (considering running) for president."

However, Smith said there will be other familiar names vying for the presidential spot. Al Gore appears to be the Democratic frontrunner, but other possibilities include former U.S. Sen. Bill Bradley, House Minority Leader Dick Gephardt and even Jesse Jackson, he said. George Bush Jr., Elizabeth Dole or Patrick Buchanan could be seen running on the Republican ticket, Smith said.

"It will be interesting to see how the Republican voters will vote," Smith said. "The race of 2000 will be one of the more interesting races."

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