‘Kennedy’ remark livens debate

Press, 7 October 1988, Page 6

‘Kennedy’ remark livens debate

NZPA-Reuter Omaha The Vice-Presidential candidates, Dan Quayle and Lloyd Bentsen, came out fighting in a crucial campaign debate on Wednesday night, and struck sparks with a biting exchange over the memory of John F. Kennedy. Mr Quayle, aged 41, defended himself against Democratic criticism that he was not qualified for the White House by saying he was just as experienced as Mr Kennedy was when he ran for the Presidency in 1960. Mr Bentsen turned on him. “I knew Jack Kennedy, I served with Jack Kennedy. Senator Jack Kennedy was a friend of mine,” said the silver-haired sena-

tor in magisterial tones. “Senator, you’re no Jack Kennedy,” he declared. Mr Quayle, glaring steadily back, retorted: “That was really uncalled for, Senator.” Mr Bentsen replied, “You’re the one who was making the comparison, and I’m one who knew him well. “And frankly, I think you’re so far apart in the objectives that you choose for your country, that I did not think the comparison was well taken.” The hall erupted into roars and cheers from a partisan crowd watching the first televised debate between the running mates of the Republican, George Bush, and Democrat, Michael Dukakis. Mr Quayle, who spent

much of the debate doggedly insisting he was fit to become President if a disaster befell a President Bush, ignited the exchange when he compared himself with Mr Kennedy, who ran for the presidency from the Senate in 1960 and defeated Richard Nixon.

“I have as much experience as Jack Kennedy did when he ran for the presidency,” he said.

The youthful Kennedy was one of America’s most popular presidents and the nation was devastated when he was assassinated in 1963. Democrats particularly cherish his memory and many resent any Republican attempts to use his name for their benefit.