Dole Shifts From Economic Plan To Clinton’s Credibility

Facing widespread skepticism about his dramatic economic plan, Bob Dole launched a counterattack Tuesday on President Clinton’s credibility.

In a speech via satellite to convention platform committee members in San Diego, the Republican presidential candidate said, “The issue of this campaign is credibility.”

“It’s going to come down to a contrast between words and actions: President Clinton’s words and my actions,” Dole said. “He’ll give us the rhetoric of reform. And I’ve spent my entire career fighting to balance the budget, create more opportunities for people and prevent government from growing beyond the consent of the governed.”

Dole’s plan calls for a $548 billion tax cut over six years while still balancing the budget. In a stark appeal for middle-class votes, Dole offers a 15 percent across-the-board reduction in income taxes.

However, a survey for ABC’s “Nightline” showed that voters - by a 3-to-1 margin - do not believe Dole can cut taxes and balance the budget.

In response to charges that his tax cut “isn’t realistic,” Dole said: “How can anyone in America believe Bill Clinton when it comes to taxes?”