ON THE STREET

This week the Southeast Missourian asked, "What do you think Sen. John Ashcroft's chances are of winning the Republican nomination for president in 2000?"

Charlotte Hill, Thebes, Ill.

"I think they're good. He has a wide political base in Southeast Missouri and he's well known politically. And I don't think he has a negative record compared to other candidates."

M.G. McCrate, Cape Girardeau

"I think he's got a really good chance of winning."

Janet Hurst, Marble Hill

"I hope they're pretty good, but you never know about politicians."

Michael Bell, Jackson

"I think he's the best person we've got to run, Republican or Democrat."

Ken Kasten, Jackson

"The nomination? I'd say it could be tough. He's not well known around the country ... Certainly we know him well around here. I'd say it's going to be an uphill battle. I'd like to see him have an opportunity."