WILSON'S PARTING GIFT

California Governor Pete Wilson, the first Republican presidential candidate to quit the race, today endorsed Bob Dole for the job he coveted. TIME Los Angeles bureau chief Jordan Bonfante reports: "The endorsement will be of limited value from a political perspective because Wilson is viewed by Californians as a failed candidate. But from a fundraising point of view, it is pivotal for Dole. With Wilson's support, he can pre-empt the gold rush into the state by the other candidates and sew up the funds for himself. He and Wilson have even talked about joint fundraisers. Dole will raise money for his campaign, and Wilson will retire his debt." A Dole aide says Wilson, who withdrew Sept. 29 after fundraising and campaign problems, will be general chairman of the Senate majority leader's campaign in California.