Sad Perot Staffers Closing Up Shop

Tuesday was the last day of work for most of Ross Perot’s remaining staff, leaving only a handful of mournful aides to shut down what was once a poll-leading presidential campaign.

Perot’s headquarters took on the appearance of a wake: staff lamenting the loss of the campaign, volunteers still hoping for a resurrection.

After Tuesday, “only a skeleton crew will remain,” said Perot spokeswoman Sharon Holman. “We’re not sure how long it’s going to take to get our house in order. We still have financial reports, all kinds of things.”

Perot’s phone bank volunteers wanted to keep the telephones up and running but the operation was slated to close today.

“A lot of people are fighting to keep it alive, to keep communication with the other states,” said Rose Roberts-Cannaday, phone bank coordinator.

“The callers all want him to stay connected,” she said. “People just don’t want it to die.”