Convention: Video Roles For Dole's Rivals

WASHINGTON (AllPolitics, July 26) -- Republican primary rivals of likely GOP nominee Robert Dole won't get to speak at the August convention, but they've been offered roles in issue-oriented videos to be aired during the meeting.

Convention planners extended several offers Thursday, leaving out conservative pundit Pat Buchanan and former Ambassador Alan Keyes since neither has endorsed Dole. They also want the group to join Dole at the podium for a unity photo after the acceptance speech, and planners have promised to heavily promote them for media interviews during the convention.

"I think it is a great idea," said former Tennessee Gov. Lamar Alexander told The Associated Press. "I think nothing could be more boring than eight losing Republican candidates making speeches in prime time. ... If anyone doesn't like it, well they can win the Republican nomination next time and have their own convention."

In addition to Alexander, publisher Malcolm S. "Steve" Forbes, Rep. Robert Dornan (R-Calif), Sen. Richard Lugar (R-In.), Sen. Phil Gramm (R-Tex.), Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Penn.), and businessman Morry Taylor were among Dole's primary opponents.

Sources say Keyes has talked to Dole's aides about an endorsement before the convention. But Buchanan, whose conservative-minded 1992 convention speech referred to a religious and cultural war in the United States, has insisted on remaining an active candidate. Convention planners have disclosed Buchanan will have no role at the meeting.

Convention: Video Roles For Dole's Rivals

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