1.   Democrats counter that most of the savings would come from reducing what Medicare pays doctors and hospitals, and increasing the premiums and deductibles recipients pay.

2.   Democrats countered that Powell was a convenient facade for the party.

3.   Democrats countered that the GOP has shown no interest in leading an even-handed investigation of campaign finance abuses.

4.   Democrats countered with ads characterizing Republicans as scandal-obsessed and stressing such themes as education, health care and saving Social Security.

5.   Democrats countered with spin of their own.

6.   Democrats counter that an explicit U.S. commitment to defend Taiwan might encourage war by letting Taiwan think it safe to defy China and declare independence.

7.   Democrats counter that Clinton considers the healthy economy his proudest accomplishment and that he will not strike a compromise that does not begin to pay down the debt.

8.   Democrats counter that even if exploration begins now, no new oil from Alaska will be available for years.

9.   Democrats counter that the ability to sue is critical to making health maintenance organizations accountable for their decisions.

10.   Democrats countered that even if drilling in Alaska began immediately, no new oil would be available for a decade.