For all the agony they’ve suffered in budget talks at President Clinton’s hands, Republicans have knocked down one persistent myth: Clinton as the peerless policy wonk. It turns out that on Medicare and Medicaid and a few other budget issues, Clinton couldn’t keep up with House Speaker Newt Gingrich. While Gingrich rattled off precise numbers and descriptions of provisions, Clinton was forced to consult aides repeatedly for information. Of course, had the discussion turned to Whitewater, Clinton would have known more.
Perhaps to make up for the president’s weakness, Vice President Al Gore has treated Gingrich contemptuously in the talks. He has often interrupted Gingrich with complaints the speaker’s facts are wrong, his interpretation incorrect, etc. Republicans have been more respectful when Clinton holds forth, listening in glazed silences to his soliloquies.
