    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1999, Book I)]
    [February 3, 1999]
    [Page 157]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Representative Richard A. Gephardt's Decision Not To Seek the Presidential Nomination
    February 3, 1999

        Democratic Leader Gephardt and I had a good meeting this morning. He
    and I discussed his decision, and I feel he made the choice for the
    right reasons. I am pleased he will continue to focus on an agenda that
    will strengthen our Nation for the 21st century: saving Social Security
    and Medicare, strengthening public education, maintaining a strong
    economy, passing a Patients' Bill of Rights.
        Dick has been a key ally for the past 6 years, and I know he will
    continue to be for the next 2. His leadership has been central to so
    many of the successes the Nation has enjoyed these past 6 years: from
    the 1993 economic plan to family and medical leave to expanding health
    care coverage and raising the minimum wage.
        Finally, on a personal level, Hillary and I value Dick and
    Jane's friendship and look forward to Dick's
    continued leadership.