Several weeks ago the Georgia Republican said the tobacco industry had no credibility and vowed that the House would not allow Democrats to appear tougher on the industry than Republicans. The next stop for the tobacco legislation would be the Senate floor. But House Majority Leader Trent Lott, R-Miss, said Monday, he was uncertain when the matter would be taken up. He had said before the spring break that the legislation would have to be considered before Memorial Day, Lott also criticized the president for not showing more leadership on the matter. Good Luck Congress.
Senators also predict a tussle over how to allocate the tobacco revenues.
Gingrich said the money must be earmarked for tax cuts while some Senate Republicans say the funds should be used to shore up Medicare and Social Security. And Clinton wants the money for school construction and day care. A spokesman for the tobacco industry said Clinton's latest comments did not provide any more guidance than his previous remarks. Duschene said the tobacco industry is proceeding with an advertising blitz in more than 40 markets. The tobacco industry also has enlisted allies in the business community such as the Chamber of Commerce and the National Restaurant Association.