It's Clinton's to Lose

First the President's attacks backfire, then Clinton and Perot best him in the St. Louis debate. Only a miracle can save George Bush

THERE OUGHT TO BE SOMEthing uplifting about a free nation of more than 250 million people choosing their leader, and if the rest of the 1992 campaign had matched the face-off in St. Louis, Missouri, the spectacle would indeed have been inspirational. Although none of the candidates said anything particularly new or revealing (aside from George Bush's promise, if re-elected, to make former Secretary of State James Baker a domestic-policy czar), the debate transcended the flawed campaign; it was more possible than ever before to get a sense of the contenders, a feel for what they believe, and insights into their...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!