Dole Critical of Gingrich’s Deal for Books

Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole (R-Kan.), opening a new rift with the incoming House Speaker, on Thursday warned that Rep. Newt Gingrich’s reported $4.5-million book deal “does raise some questions” that could dog Republicans at a time when they are slashing programs that help the poor.

In a telephone interview with a small group of reporters, Dole called the news of Gingrich’s lucrative contract to publish two books with HarperCollins Publishers “not too popular” among voters, and suggested it could hurt the GOP unless it is “addressed” quickly by the Georgia Republican.

“It’s a lot of money,” said Dole, speaking from Bal Harbour, Fla., where he is resting and plotting his next move in an expected bid for the presidency. “I can already see, when you start cutting programs that are going to affect low-income Americans, (that) that could be an issue.”

The first book, tentatively titled “To Renew America,” is to be a series of essays by Gingrich on the GOP agenda. The second is to be a compendium of essays on government by historical figures, with commentary by Gingrich.

Dole’s rebuke has come amid mounting criticism of Gingrich for striking the deal with the New York publisher, which is controlled by communications mogul Rupert Murdoch. Last week, Democrats accused Gingrich of taking part in a “sweetheart deal” in which the Speaker would try to change the law that prevents Murdoch, an Australian citizen, from buying U.S. TV stations with foreign capital.

Dole stopped short of suggesting that Gingrich should refuse the money for the books.

“I don’t want to get in a quarrel with Newt, but I think it is a concern,” Dole said. A Gingrich spokesman said he interpreted Dole’s remarks as “entirely friendly” and added, “I’m sure that was how it was intended.”

Meanwhile, there were news reports Thursday night that Gingrich was considering giving up a substantial portion of the $4.5-million book advance.