CAMPAIGN WATCH : Opening Volleys

It would be all too easy to label, as some have, the first nationally televised debate of the 1992 presidential race a showcase for “eenie, meenie, minie and Mario.” The latter reference is to New York Gov. Mario Cuomo, and the fact that the most prominent potential candidate was not present Sunday during the debate among six lesser-known, declared Democratic candidates.

But so what if Cuomo wasn’t there? It’s true that his presence hung over the debate, a sort of Banquo’s ghost, some might suggest. But it’s also true that the six candidates had a rare opportunity to get their messages out before a nationwide audience. And, for the most part, those messages were worth hearing. Even if, as in the case of former Gov. Edmund G. (Jerry) Brown Jr., you heard the message over, and over, and just in case you missed it, over again.

The main point of discussion was the economy. Iowa Sen. Tom Harkin waved a dollar bill to signify what he considers the paltry benefit from a tax cut. Former Massachusetts Sen. Paul E. Tsongas talked about making the Democratic Party the party of economic growth--not the party’s traditional posture. Nebraska Sen. Bob Kerrey, Arkansas Gov. Bill Clinton and Virginia Gov. L. Douglas Wilder made cogent--though divergent--points. And moderator Tom Brokaw, freed from previously rigid debate rules, was able to ask the right questions at the right moments. That made for freewheeling discussion.

It sure beat a game of eenie meenie minie mo. The 1992 election might just become one of the most important ever.