Gore takes bow and repeats support pledge

WASHINGTON - As Washington geared up for a new Administration, Vice-President Al Gore spent a bittersweet day yesterday making a graceful exit while urging support - within limits - for President-elect George W. Bush.

Heading into his last days in office, Gore swore in senators of the 107th Congress and addressed black members of the House of Representatives, many of whom have decried the contested results in Florida that handed the presidency to Bush.

"I believe very deeply that we all must respect, and wherever possible, help President-elect Bush because from the moment he takes his solemn oath a great responsibility will rest in his hands," Gore told the 38 members of the Congressional Black Caucus, all fellow Democrats.

But as he called for healing "our nation's divisions," Gore said the bipartisanship that Bush has called for since emerging as the victor in the bitterly fought election should go only so far.

"When you are the conscience of the Congress, you, of course, have to do your best to reach across party lines, but you also have to know when to draw the line," he told the black lawmakers.

And, in his first public statements since conceding the election to Bush on December 13, Gore could not resist needling his rival, the former Texas governor, a little bit.

"The country better get ready, because America is about to see some bold new leadership from the state of Texas. Of course, I'm talking about Eddie Bernice Johnson," Gore said, referring to the Dallas congresswoman who is the new head of the Congressional Black Caucus.

Gore then moved on to his role as President of the Senate to swear in senators elected in November, including New York's new senator, First Lady Hillary Clinton. For 17 days, until the Bush Administration takes office, Gore's tie-breaking vote means that Democrats will have control of a Senate that has 50 Republicans and 50 Democrats.

Senate Republican Leader Trent Lott of Mississippi, who until January 20 is minority leader, thanked Gore "for the example that you have set during a very difficult time."

"You took the appropriate step and now we are prepared to move into a transition and into a new administration."

Lott also expressed "the appreciation of the Senate and a grateful nation to the presiding officer, the Vice-President of the United States, for the service he has given to our country."

As loud applause subsided, Gore deadpanned:

"The chair will remind the Senate that boisterous demonstrations are against the rules of the Senate."

Gore then swore in members of the new Senate, and gave a kiss on the cheek to the First Lady.

He paused before swearing in Senator Joseph Lieberman, who ran for re-election to his Connecticut Senate seat at the same time he stumped the country as Gore's vice-presidential running mate.

"Congratulations my friend, I'm proud of you," Gore said as they hugged and clasped hands.

- REUTERS

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