After Unexpected DUI Story, ‘Fresh Start’ Theme Is Back
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The governor’s motorcade passed a protester with a sign drawing attention to the drinking revelation, which dominated media coverage on Friday even as [George W. Bush] toured several key battleground states. “Bush Go Home–Just Don’t Drive,” the sign said. Aides said today that they believe Bush, who kept his aplomb through a day of questions, had used the issue to demonstrate that he does not overreact in a crisis. However, aides continued to field questions about Bush’s candor when he was asked in the past about his arrest record. In any case, Bush’s aides contend that voters see any shortcomings as a sign of Bush’s humanity, and they argue that Washington incubation is no requirement for the nation’s top office. To try to prove them right, Bush raced today through the huge and unpredictable electoral prizes of Michigan, Pennsylvania and Florida. Bush drew large crowds, most of which were made up of conservative Republicans who booed when he mentioned “the incumbency” and who occasionally broke into chants of “No More Gore.” In Glenside, Pa., the picturesque business district closed down and Bush fans jammed several blocks. One banner said, “W Is for White House,” and a huge balloon depicting an Uncle Sam hat floated above part of the crowd. A group of motorcyclists waved “Bikers for Bush” posters. |