Gephardt Silent on Ticket After Seeing Dukakis

BOSTON —  Massachusetts Gov. Michael S. Dukakis met with Missouri Rep. Richard A. Gephardt for an hour Tuesday but afterward Gephardt would not say whether Dukakis, the expected Democratic presidential nominee, is considering him as a running mate.

“I really have nothing to add,” Gephardt told reporters at the Massachusetts Statehouse. “Your questions should be addressed to the Dukakis campaign.”

Meanwhile, the Rev. Jesse Jackson, who met with Dukakis here on Monday night, said at a news conference Tuesday that he believed that he was still under consideration as a potential vice presidential nominee.

‘Meeting Was Fruitful’

Although he declined to reveal the specifics of their conversation, Jackson said: “My impression is that no decision has been made and that’s why the meeting was fruitful and alive.”

Ron Brown, who is managing Jackson’s convention strategy, told reporters later that he would be discussing the vice presidency and other matters with top Dukakis aides. “I’m absolutely convinced that the selection process is still ongoing and absolutely convinced that Jesse Jackson is still very much part of the process,” he said.

Gephardt, who won the Iowa caucuses in February, was knocked out of the race by March, in part because of Dukakis TV commercials that pointed out how the congressman had changed his positions on some key issues over the years.

Would Accept Nomination

The two politicians were also testy with each other in debates but Gephardt said Tuesday that was behind them “because I want Michael Dukakis elected President.” He said he would accept the vice presidential nomination if asked.

Dukakis also met Tuesday night with another of his primary opponents, Tennessee Sen. Albert Gore Jr. And today, Dukakis plans to see Indiana Rep. Lee H. Hamilton, who also has been mentioned as a potential running mate.