Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SUNDAY, June 24, 1990 TAG: 9006280620
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: D-2 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: DES MOINES, IOWA LENGTH: Medium
Wilder conceded he wants to "force the dialogue" and told Democrats who would seek the presidential nomination: "Let's get on out, let's move, let's speak."
Wilder raised money for Democratic candidates, rubbed shoulders with party activists and campaigned in each of the state's media markets.
During the swing, Wilder carefully described the type of candidate who would be an ideal nominee and "I'd like to think I'm one of those persons."
In the delicate ritual dance of early stirrings, he made it clear that nothing he was doing or saying should be interpreted as interest in the White House.
"I have no intention, I have no apparatus in mind," insisted Wilder. Still, he conceded, he would not swear to it.
In the six months since he became the first black elected governor, Wilder has campaigned in 11 states, including Iowa and New Hampshire with his message of a "new mainstream" blending conservative fiscal policies and social activism.
"That's not a Virginia message, that's a mainstream message," said Wilder. "That's a message for Iowa."
Iowa activists understand the ritual well and immediately began handicapping the candidate.
"Does it sell today? I don't know," said Iowa Democratic Chairman John Roehrick. "Will it sell in two years? I think so."
Roehrick said there's a new sense among Democrats that they need to find tough-minded managers to run social programs the party favors and activists are increasingly willing to listen to that pitch.
Wilder's election in a state where only 19 percent of the electorate is black shot him to national prominence - and inevitable comparison to Jesse Jackson. Some Democrats argue Wilder is less threatening to whites - and less liberal - than Jackson.
Wilder's pitch came in inner-city schools and churches, precisely where Jackson scored heaviest.
Though his rallies with choirs swaying and children scurrying looked like Jackson's, his message was sharply different.
"We're not going to raise taxes," Wilder said. "We're going to get rid of some taxes."
Others wondered what would happen when the fiery Jackson entered the fray.
"Jesse fires up people on issues and that's what wins elections," said Iowa Democratic Party spokesman Joe Shannahan. "I don't know if they know Wilder as well as they know Jackson."
The question of whether he can win those activists will get an early test, as Jackson is tentatively scheduled to campaign in the state early next month.
by CNB