Lamm Ponders Reform Party, If...

WASHINGTON (AllPolitics, June 21) -- As Dick Lamm sees it, only "two Himalayan mountains" stand in his path to the Reform Party nomination: wealthy Texas businessman Ross Perot and money.

The former Colorado governor, who has been eyeing the party's nomination for several weeks, told reporters today that he wanted to seek the party's nomination, if Perot chooses not to run and if he can raise $20 million.

So far, Lamm, long known as "Governor Gloom," says he's garnered about $1,500, which he joked had the major parties "shaking in their boots." He says he'd need about $20 million to be taken seriously. As for Perot, there's no word whether he wants the party's nod, which will be given at the party's convention in mid-August.

A one-time Clinton supporter, Lamm has been distressed by the failure of Democrats and Republicans to move on campaign finance reform, the federal debt and long-range entitlement programs, like Social Security. He indicated several weeks ago an interest in running for the White House.

Some wags have suggested Lamm should tap Perot as his vice presidential choice, bringing with him his vast wealth to fund the campaign, and then make Perot promise to step down if they win the election.

Lamm Ponders Reform Party, If...

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