51.   The Bush plan was quickly dismissed by aides to the Democratic contender, Vice President Al Gore.

52.   The Democratic contenders have criticized Bush for failing to commit to similar protective measures, and for declining so far to outline specifics of his own health care plan.

53.   The Democratic contender, Vice President Al Gore, has struggled to step from the shadow of scandal that has plagued Clinton.

54.   The Democratic mayoral contenders assailed the budget for a different reason, charging that the mayor was depriving worthy programs of money.

55.   The Democratic contender, Marion Berry, is a former White House aide but campaigned on an anti-abortion and anti-gun-control platform.

56.   The Democratic contenders for governor are Rep. Joseph P. Kennedy II, and Attorney General Scott Harshbarger.

57.   The FEC is considering changing the long-standing prohibition at the request of former New Jersey Sen. Bill Bradley, a Democratic contender, and Internet giant America Online.

58.   The four Democratic contenders did not release figures Tuesday but are expected to on Wednesday.

59.   The labor delegates also heard from Democratic contender Bill Lyon, a Waxahachie businessman who called for immediate help for Texans struggling through a sagging economy.

60.   The leading Democratic contender to replace Lowry is Attorney General Christine Gregoire, who has said she will consider the race if he does not run.