1.   Ford promised to convince the Clinton administration and the Democratic congressional leadership to back away from the bill.

2.   Formally, the Democratic leadership in both chambers opposed the Helms amendment.

3.   Richardson is very well-connected, both in the Democratic leadership and on political committees.

4.   The Democratic leadership in Congress has pushed him hard on the issue.

5.   The Democratic leadership in Congress, which was noticeably absent at the signing ceremony, fought the measure.

6.   This is what democratic leadership means.

7.   Although supporters and opponents alike predict the bill will sail through this time under Democratic leadership, Gov. Gray Davis has not expressed support for or opposition to it.

8.   And a Democratic leadership aide said Jeffords would caucus with Democrats, even if he chooses to become an Independent.

9.   An official in the Democratic congressional leadership, speaking on the condition of anonymity, did not dispute the assessment.

10.   And the Democratic leadership was thinking the same thing.