GOP Candidates Distancing Selves From Dole?

MACON, Ga. (Oct. 23) -- Republican nominee Bob Dole took time in his campaign tour through Georgia today for a pitstop rally at the Macon airport. He was joined by freshman Rep. Saxby Chambliss, who represents Georgia's 8th District.

If Chambliss, who looks good but not safe in his own re-election race, is worried that Dole's struggling campaign will sink his own, it didn't show when he spoke to the crowd.

"Let me just say, Senator, that we are extremely proud to have you in the state of Georgia and in middle Georgia and in the Eighth District today," Chambliss said. "And let me just tell you something: you're in a district where honesty counts." (128K WAV sound)

When it came his turn, Dole was happy to return the plug. "I want to thank Saxby Chambliss. It is an honor to be in his district," Dole told the rally. "I was here when he first ran. He has done an outstanding job as a new member of Congress and will continue working for all of you, regardless of party. Good conservative member of Congress. That's what we need. We need more of them." (224K WAV sound)

The question is, does the endorsement of a double-digit underdog help or hurt? The polls are grim enough and the time short enough that the rumblings and rumors have begun. Will Republican candidates, struggling to stay in power on Capitol Hill, walk away from the top of the ticket?

Another Georgia freshman, Bob Barr, who is also fighting for a second term, admitted to CNN that in the final two weeks a delicate survival dance is required. "People will make up their own mind on the presidential race, but any candidate, Republican or Democrat, that pins their hopes on the party's nominee for president, I think, is making a big mistake," Barr said. (128K WAV sound)

For whatever reason, Barr did not make today's Georgia rally. Dole aides insist they have seen no sign of official public erosion. Our problem, said one aide, has been podiums too full of politicians. And in recent weeks observers could note the increased presence of children and women on the stage behind Dole.

Aides also point out that Ohio Gov. George Voinovich, who was reported not to be returning phone calls to the Dole campaign, was front and center in Ohio when Dole blew through Tuesday. Likewise, Rep. John Kasich (R-Ohio), whose own re-election bid seems safe though not certain, was standing by his party's man.

As for Dole, strategists say this race is about the presidency, though Dole will help Republican candidates, if he can.

Still, after more than three decades in Washington, Dole understands fully how this all works. He frequently quotes Harry Truman, and Dole has lived and breathed one of the late president's best quips: 'If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog.'

This story originally appeared on CNN's "Inside Politics."

GOP Candidates Distancing Selves From Dole?

Related Stories: