Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: MONDAY, February 18, 1991 TAG: 9102180147
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: A3 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: ALBANY, N.Y. LENGTH: Medium
On the eve of Presidents Day, Wilder discussed presidents from Virginia.
"Looking back as far as the early 19th century, we find that from 1800 to 1824, during three presidential terms, Virginians served as president, with New Yorkers serving as their vice-presidents," Wilder said in remarks prepared for his keynote speech to the state Legislature's Black and Puerto Rican Caucus.
"Jefferson and Burr, Madison and Clinton, Governor Monroe and Governor Thompkins," said Wilder, listing Virginia presidents and their New York vice presidents.
But Wilder didn't say in his prepared remarks whether the nation should elect such a team again.
"Some have suggested that perhaps it's time to return the favor," he said.
Cuomo, meanwhile, told the crowd of the national interest in Wilder.
"I don't wish to embarass him, but everyone knows that all across this country they are mentioning Douglas Wilder's name as a potential candidate for the Democratic candidate . . . for the presidency, and I wish him well," said Cuomo.
While the two potential contenders have had skirmishes in the past, a top Wilder aide said Friday that relations between the two were "fine."
"Governor Wilder knows that Governor Cuomo said he has no plans to make plans [to run for president], but Governor Wilder also would acknowledge that Governor Cuomo often heads the list of people that other people think will run," said Wilder spokeswoman Laura Dillard.
Wilder and Cuomo have thrust themselves into the national political spotlight by campaigning for other candidates across the country and frequently commenting on national issues.
Wilder continued to do that Sunday, speaking about national fiscal problems, attacking the Bush administration for its economic and civil rights record, and highlighting fiscal policies in Virginia.
Wilder also outlined what he believes the Democrats need to win back the White House.
He said the 1992 candidate should know "that we first must establish a lasting fiscal foundation before we can hope to provide the quality education, health care, and economic opportunities that this and future generations of Americans so richly deserve."
Wilder quoted Cuomo's 1984 keynote speech at the Democratic National Convention, when he called for "speeches that bring people to their senses."
"Let us hope that a Democratic candidate for president will come to the fore . . . who will indeed bring people to their senses with speeches, and to the polls with a proven record of fiscal and human achievement," Wilder said.
by CNB