21.   Behind the scenes, Senate moderates have already exercised considerable influence over the framework of the trial.

22.   Better relations with Washington would leave Iran less isolated and vulnerable to Iraq, and better able to exercise its influence as a regional power.

23.   A small group of businessmen and bankers exercises disproportionate influence over the economy and political system.

24.   But behind the scenes, he exercised untold influence.

25.   But even before the meeting, several Israeli officials signaled that they held little hope, largely because they felt that Mubarak exercised little influence with the Syrian president.

26.   But in practice the United States usually gets its way, exercising its influence behind the scenes, often in interactions between Fischer and Summers.

27.   But he does not lobby for his favorite causes, no longer commands a large following and exercises no influence in Washington.

28.   But it is unclear whether Mineta, an informal adviser to Gore during the presidential campaign, will be able to exercise much influence beyond the Transportation Department.

29.   But Mrs. Duhalde has pressed on undeterred, confident that it is her destiny to exercise influence even without a title.