He faces the challenge of being a relatively unknown public official running in a race that has yet to show much sign of capturing the public's attention. Mr. Hevesi immediately moved to distinguish himself in the field by asserting that he was the most experienced candidate and by offering a notably charitable assessment of Mr. Giuliani's record in office. I say that is wrong. As his audience of supporters stood largely silent, Mr. Hevesi offered a refrain that, conceivably, could have come from Mr. Giuliani himself, had not term limits prevented him from seeking a third term. Welfare rolls are down.
Quality of life is improved.
The squeegee men are off the streets. We've had budget surpluses and raised the city's bond ratings. Our population is growing again. Mr. Hevesi's invocation of the mayor reflected the complicated task all these candidates face as they try to untangle Mr. Giuliani's political legacy by aligning themselves with popular elements while taking note of Mr. Giuliani's record and style, and his enduring unpopularity among people who are likely to vote in the Democratic primary. Mr. Hevesi drew swift, if indirect criticism, for his remarks.