THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, September 5, 1996 TAG: 9609050006
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A14 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 27 lines
Like millions of voters, I watched Bob Dole's acceptance speech as the Republican candidate for president. Throughout his speech the theme was that voters should trust him and the Republican Party to solve the problems America faces. He said that the Republican Party is not just for the rich, but for every American.
The most troublesome thing about Bob Dole's speech is what he didn't say about the Republican Party's platform and its hidden agenda. He refused to address a major issue: the party's stand on abortion. You can bet that if he is elected, and with the Republicans in charge of both the House and Senate, that it is only a matter of time before a constitutional amendment is passed outlawing a woman's right to an abortion.
In the weeks to come Bob Dole and Jack Kemp will be embracing women, African Americans and other minorities for their vote in November. The reality is that when this election is over they will be second-class citizens in the Republican Party.
If I had to grade Mr. Dole's speech I would give him an A for finesse and a zero for substance.
GERTRUDE CRISP
Portsmouth, Aug. 22, 1996 by CNB