Strategist Urges GOP To Stay Away From Latest Clinton Scandal

By Jonathan Karl/CNN

WASHINGTON (Jan. 22) -- A memo from a top GOP pollster advises congressional Republicans not to comment on allegations that President Bill Clinton had an affair with former White House intern Monica Lewinsky.

"It would be a grave error to be seen as taking political advantage of such an unfortunate situation," GOP pollster Frank Luntz says in the memo. "These are very serious allegations that will be resolved within the legal system -- and quite frankly -- the news media."

"Let the word 'impeachment' be spoken only by people such as Newsweek's Michael Isikoff, NBC's Brian Williams or ABC's Ted Koppel .... Too many Americans justify the President's behavior because they dislike his accusers. Please don't add to that justification. The facts will speak louder than any of your voices," Luntz' memo continues.

Luntz was the pollster for the Contract with America and advises several top congressional Republicans, including Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott.

At least one House Republican vehemently disagrees. Bob Barr (R-Ga.) is renewing calls for impeachment.

"The prudent measure is to move forward with impeachment hearings," said Barr spokesman Chip Walker. "The House has a duty to oversee the executive branch, [Barr] wants to see the House exercise that constitutional authority."

Thursday Jan. 22, 1998

• Firestorm Consumes White House
• Sonny Bono's Widow To Seek His Congressional Seat
• Gore Seeks Consensus In Abortion Debate
• Justice, Microsoft Settle Contempt Dispute
• Tripp: No Stranger To Controversy
• Editor: Lewinsky Tapes Don't Confirm Affair
• Strategist Urges GOP To Stay Away From Latest Clinton Scandal
• Lewinsky's Leap From 'Nobody' To News Headlines
• Vernon Jordan A Quintessential 'FOB'
• White House Scandal At A Glance
• Sources: Clinton Admits Sexual Affair With Flowers

Analysis:
• Clinton Faces His Most Serious Crisis

Transcripts:
• Kenneth Starr's Comments