1.   Gauging support in Congress is difficult at this point, with lawmakers on both sides of the issue saying they expect a messy fight.

2.   It was formed by a messy political fight complete with negative ads between Clinton and his detractors.

3.   Now, however, the stage is set for a potentially messy public fight over the pay issue if publicity-minded members decide to wage floor fights.

4.   Springsteen later had to go to court in a messy fight to unseat Appel when new manager Jon Landau arrived on the scene.

5.   There was the messy fight to choose a chancellor last fall.