We were balling up the latest hand-penned George W. Bush fundraising mailer when it hit us: Is there a secret in his handwriting? To the Internet we went in search of a handwriting analyst. First up–Katie Darden of the Career Life Institute in Trinidad, Calif. Her analysis: The GOP presidential pick is the real McCoy. "Bush has an active, curious, probing mind that can quickly size up situations, evaluate the circumstances, and make instant decisions," says Darden. He likes directness, has a good memory, relates well to others even though he enjoys being the center of attention, is sensitive, forward-looking and persistent. But he stinks at meeting deadlines and needs to delegate. Bush also likes to win and will stand firm on issues. But: "These characteristics, if taken to an extreme, could result in some interesting 'stand-offs'–whether . . . with Congress, or with other world leaders."
Breaking bread
Food, mankind's common bond, may also be the hidden link between Democratic presidential candidate Al Gore and his new running mate, Sen. Joseph Lieberman–and even President Clinton. It turns out that all are fans of Washington's L'Etoile kosher French restaurant. It's a regular on Lieberman's schedule and even hosted one of his book signings. It's also a must for Gore and Clinton when Jewish friends stop by. For example, platters were sent to Camp David during the recent peace talks, and Gore had L'Etoile cater a party at his Observatory Circle home when Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak visited. Lieberman also likes the Tombs, a college beer and burger joint in Georgetown near his home, and used to patronize the Center City Café at the Jewish Community Center. L'Etoile's owner, David Dahan, says the senator isn't picky: He likes meat, fish, and chicken. "He might be the next vice president, but he's a totally normal guy," says Dahan.
Barnyard epithet
Don't tell House GOP investigators that the Clinton era is over. Administration sources tell Whispers that the chairman of the House Government Reform Committee has subpoenaed the administration for a 1995 intelligence warning alleging corruption by Victor Chernomyrdin, then prime minister of Russia, on which Vice President Al Gore allegedly scrawled "bull- - - -." Gore denies all and says he doesn't know if his superpower partner was a crook. Our sources say the White House, the vice president's office, and the CIA are searching files to comply with Rep. Dan Burton's order.
GOPositive
Shelve those 1992 "Annoy the media: Elect Bush" hats handed out by the former president; his son is getting the Clinton treatment from the media. The independent Center for Media and Public Affairs tells Whispers that Vice President Al Gore should be the one whining about the press. "This is a man-bites-dog story for Republicans," says center President Robert Lichter. Just consider TV coverage of the GOP convention: Sixty percent of the coverage was positive for George W. Bush, while 80 percent was negative for Gore.
Crossing the line
The Republican National Committee has turned offensive in its drive to raise $4.5 million for TV ads bashing Al Gore. Donors tell Whispers that they recently received nasty letters questioning their party allegiance. And last week some had to sign for a certified fundraising letter sent at a cost of $1.73. "Lucky I was home. Imagine if I rushed to the post office to get this garbage–not good," gripes one Republican.
Army green
The Army is seeing green–as in cold cash. Typically snubbed during the summer budgeting season, the Army this year is getting the lion's share of congressional add-ons. "The Army is the big winner among the services," chirps one official. There's an extra $400 million for a new armored vehicle, and $77 million for 12 assault bridges. The Air Force is getting a few extra fighter jets but is also losing some funds for the Joint Strike Fighter. And the Navy, instead of getting $940 million for a transport ship it needs, is getting $460 million for a helicopter carrier it didn't ask for–built in Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott's home state of Mississippi.
Heard a Whisper? E-mail us at whispers@usnews.com
