Quayle Says Powell Could Join Dole

Former Vice President Dan Quayle predicted Wednesday that Colin Powell would accept the GOP vice presidential spot if asked directly by Sen. Bob Dole, despite his repeated disavowals of interest.

“Assuming that he (Powell) wants a future in politics, you cannot say ‘no’ to your presidential nominee,” Quayle said in an interview with The Associated Press.

Fresh from a 45-minute long private meeting with Dole, Quayle said that the Senate majority leader has not made up his mind yet on a running mate.

In Rolla, Mo. where he was giving a speech Wednesday night, before Quayle’s comments were made public, Powell repeated his disinterest in running.

“I am not seeking any political office in 1996 at any level,” he said. “The decision’s been made.”