FIRST OFF . . .

Vice President George Bush--citing campaign declaration deadlines--has turned down an appearance on William F. Buckley, Jr.’s “Firing Line” on Sept. 2. The show is scheduled to feature Republican presidential hopefuls--in a format similar to the Democratic showcase that aired July 1--but Bush’s bow-out triggered a similar move from Kansas Sen. Robert Dole, another Presidential aspirant. “It does look like they (Bush and Dole) have a gentleman’s agreement,” said “Firing Line” producer Warren Steibel. “Maybe they mistakenly believe if they don’t come there can’t be serious debate.” Those still on Buckley’s bill: New York Congressman Jack Kemp, Gen. Alexander Haig, TV evangelist Pat Robertson, former Delaware Gov. Pierre S. du Pont IV and former Nevada Sen. Paul Laxalt.