Dole, Powell Say Their Chat Wasn't About VP Position

WASHINGTON (AllPolitics, March 31) -- Former Joint Chiefs Chairman Colin Powell said he had a "nice chat" with Republican presidential candidate Bob Dole but the subject of being his running mate was not brought up.

Dole confirmed Sunday that Powell telephoned him on Friday but said they did not discuss the GOP ticket.

"He called to congratulate me, and I appreciate that very much," Dole said. "And I'd simply like a chance ... to visit one of these days about a lot of things."

Powell spoke briefly to CNN Saturday as he arrived at a Washington hotel for a meeting with Turkish President Suleyman Demirel.

"The senator and I had a nice chat yesterday," Powell said. "I just congratulated him."

When asked if Dole had asked him to be his vice presidential running mate, Powell repeated, "We just had a nice conversation and I congratulated him.

As CNN asked Powell if he had told Dole he would be on his ticket, the retired general walked away from the camera crew and into the hotel.

After the meeting, Powell and President Demirel appeared for a photo opportunity and to answer a few questions.

Powell, who said it was a pleasure to talk about old times and renew his friendship with Demirel, was asked if he would want an ambassadorship or cabinet position to allow him to meet more often with his old friends.

"I seem to be able to see old friends without being either an ambassador or in a cabinet position," he answered. "I'm just a retired general who is enjoying private life very, very much."

Dole, Powell Say Their Chat Wasn't About VP Position

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