In Iowa, Dole cites her active experience

By Mike Glover, Associated Press, March 11, 1999

DES MOINES -- Elizabeth Dole moved a step closer to a full-fledged campaign for president yesterday, announcing the formation of an exploratory committee and saying she sees "a great American yearning" that she is ready to fulfill.

Highlighting her qualifications in the race for the 2000 Republican nomination, Dole said she had worked for five presidents -- and had held two Cabinet posts -- but she also sought to separate herself from other political candidates.

"What does a woman like me have to offer the country?" she asked. "I'm not a politician and, frankly, . . . that may be a plus."

She pointed to her experience as secretary of labor and secretary of transportation, as well as eight years heading the American Red Cross.

"That's experience, and that's what counts," Dole said. "I'm not a seat-warmer. I want to get in there and make a difference."

Her speech, announcing an exploratory committee looking toward a campaign, was heavy on themes and light on specifics.

"I want to hear from you; this is a people-to-people effort on my part," Dole told more than 400 backers at a rally. "We're going to be laying out positions on all these issues, but we're going to be doing it in a thoughtful way."

During her speech, Dole moved about the room much as she had at a presentation that won her high marks at the 1996 Republican National Convention that gave the 1996 GOP nomination to her husband.

Bob Dole did not attend the event yesterday, and she did not refer to him directly. After her speech, Dole left the room without answering reporters' questions.

Dole also bought half-hour slots of television time in Iowa and New Hampshire to air commercials alluding to President Clinton's problems.

"If I run, this will be why: I believe our people are looking for leaders who will call America to her better nature," Dole said. "Yes, we've been let down, and by people we should have been able to look up to."