Making Hart Stew

The ads for Burger King used to cry "Have it your way," but as a political campaign slogan that would be foolish. Spoken by one candidate to another, "You deserve a break today," the old McDonald's line, would also be too kindhearted. But Walter Mondale's repetition of a hamburger chain's advertising slogan, "Where's the beef?," has proved a remarkably successful political putdown.

Mondale uses the question to suggest that Gary Hart's policy ideas, while impressive sounding, lack substance. Mondale's campaign manager, Robert Beckel, urged the candidate to use the slogan during the Atlanta debate a week ago Sunday. "When I hear about...

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