Presidential Hopefuls

* On Nov. 7, 1992, Rep. Robert Dornan (R-Garden Grove), the Republican’s “loose cannon” declared that he would challenge Sen. Dianne Feinstein in her 1994 reelection bid. I rejoiced at this news thinking that at long last Dornan would finally coming out of his Orange County closet and actually let himself be judged not just by his captive Orange County conservative peers, but by voters throughout California as well.

Sadly, Dornan decided to play it safe and ran for reelection to the House instead. And now that he announced his presidential bid (Feb. 8, 10), will Dornan actually do it? I fervently hope he does! Please, Mr. Dornan, run!

If he does run, my only regret is that the people of California will still not have the opportunity to give Dornan the “drubbing” he’s sure to get if he’s still involved in the presidential primary here. This is because by the time the primary reaches California, he will have “thrown in the towel” on his pathetic bid after humiliating defeats in the first few primaries in the East Coast.

DANTE A. GUTIERREZ

Buena Park

* Former Vice President Dan Quayle withdrawing from the race (Feb. 10)? We have lost the dream team of Quayle and Rep. Sonny Bono (R-La Quinta).

L. S. GURNEY

Los Angeles

* Re “Powell Carefully Shines His Political Star,” Feb. 1: Incredibly, Democratic consultant Michael Ford asks, “What would (Colin Powell) bring to the table?” For starters, try leadership, integrity, experience, compassion and accomplishment. Things that most current politicians only dream about.

GREG MEYER

Downey