Spain I Used to Have Little Faith in the U.S.

Used to Have Little Faith in the U.S." On the eve of elections, Prime Minister Felipe Gonzalez talks about his changing political views

Halfway through an 18-day re-election campaign, Spanish Prime Minister Felipe Gonzalez Marquez finds himself attacked on several fronts. Once friendly trade unions complain that the Socialist leader has forsaken his party's traditional ideology by freezing social benefits and allowing 16% unemployment. Businessmen, who still applaud Gonzalez's successful campaign to attract foreign investment and reduce inflation, now fret about high interest rates and a growing trade deficit.

But after seven years in office, Gonzalez -- and, apparently, the electorate -- remains unfazed by the criticism; he is expected to lead his party to a third consecutive victory on Oct. 29. The Prime...

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