CHENEY VISIT PROVIDES GLIMPSE OF GOP `PLAYER'

The region received a first-hand glimpse of a man who could be a real player in the next presidential election. Former secretary of defense Dick Cheney came across quick-witted, plainspoken and well informed as he spoke to about 200 people in Cape Girardeau Tuesday.

He was the featured speaker at a fund-raising breakfast for the Missouri Futures Fund of the Republican Party. Considered a prime GOP candidate in the 1996 presidential race, Cheney says he's considering the prospects but has yet to make up his mind.

As might be expected, Cheney lashed out at President Clinton's deficit-reduction plan. Cheney simply calls the budget package a "massive redistribution of wealth." He's particularly concerned that the budget ax falls mostly on defense spending - without touching domestic programs. The former defense secretary, who directed Desert Storm in 1991, said comparable reductions during the Carter years produced disastrous results.

In Washington circles, people trust Dick Cheney - a rare commodity - according to columnist David Broder. His thoughtful, low-key approach may destine him for higher places.