MISSOURI LAWMAKERS PRAISE ADDRESS

WASHINGTON -- U.S. Rep. Bill Emerson said Wednesday's inauguration was "an uplifting ceremony," while Missouri Sen. John Danforth maintained the orderly transfer of power in this nation is "inspiring."

The two Republicans made the comments Wednesday afternoon in response to ceremonies making Democrat Bill Clinton the 42nd president of the United States.

"The peaceful transition of power is one of this nation's special glories," said Danforth. "Orderly transition to a new president and new administration is inspiring proof that our democratic institutions are sound.

"To the world, it is an unmistakable signal of continuity in American leadership."

Emerson, of Cape Girardeau, said he felt the inaugural address helped set the tone for the Clinton administration.

"I thought rhetorically that it was a good speech. I think that an inaugural speech is one that sets a tone, and in that regard it was a good speech," said Emerson. "It was an uplifting ceremony; I thought the music was tre~mendous."

Emerson predicted that Republicans in Congress would be needed by Clinton to meet some of his goals, but he added in some instances Republicans could be staunch foes of the new president.

"Republicans in Congress are now the loyal opposition. I think that President Clinton is going to need Republicans in many instances if he pursues as vigorously some of the ideas he put forth in the campaign, such as the line item veto," said Emerson. "He's going to need a lot of Republican support to get measures like that passed.

"I think there are areas of that sort that Republicans will embrace what President Clinton says he wants to do. I think it is going to be in the social arenas where we're going to have a lot of difficulties."

U.S. Sen. Christopher Bond, R-Mo., said Clinton "talked about things that we all are interested in" and "set a good positive tone" for the start of the Democratic administration.

Danforth said he was pleased with the tone of Clinton's speech because he called on Americans to face up to the difficult problems facing the country. The third-term senator pledged his cooperation.

"President Clinton summoned Americans to face hard truths and support strong measures to address the country's problems. I stand ready to work with him and the administration on policies to address the federal deficit, the cost and availability of health care, and other great issues that demand attention," said Danforth.

"I have always believed the first duty of those of us who serve in government is to be good stewards, to set our eyes on creating a better life for our children and grandchildren. I was pleased that responsibility to the future was a central part of the president's speech."