Dukakis Looks Back

What ever happened to Michael Dukakis?

Back in 1988, the Massachusetts governor was on top of the political world, with a 17-point lead over George Bush the elder, and the weeks following the Democratic National Convention in Atlanta were full of hope.

But by that November, Dukakis' hopes for the White House had been dashed and then-Vice President Bush sailed to a landslide victory. The infamous Willie Horton TV ad, Boston Harbor, the Pledge of Allegiance flap, and Ronald Reagan's legacy proved to be too much for the Democratic presidential hopeful.

Fast forward twelve years. These days, Dukakis remains passionate about politics as a visiting professor lecturing students at colleges and universities across the nation.

"There's nothing more fulfilling or satisfying than being in a position where you can make a difference in the lives of your fellow citizens, and that's what politics and public service ultimately are all about," Dukakis told CBS News' Early Show Anchor Bryant Gumbel on Tuesday.

But the Michael Dukakis of 2000 is about more than politics. He also sits on the board of Amtrak, which this summer will roll out a new high-speed rail service in the Northeast. Between trains and teaching, Dukakis is busy - so busy that he hardly seems to miss the old battles in the political arena.

"No, I don't miss the publicity. But I would miss it if I didn't have an opportunity in some way, whether in the classroom, on a college campus, on the Amtrak board, to be involved."

So, would Dukakis ever reenter active politics?

"Not if I want to stay married," he said with a laugh.

Dukakis said he's happy doing what he likes best - teaching the ways of politics. He added he's not ready yet to just sit back, relax, and watch the sunrise and sunset.

"I like being in a position where in some way I can work with other people to make this a better country. It may sound hopelessly idealistic, but that's me and working with these young people, and trying to encourage them to do this. There's nothing like it."

And Dukakis kidded you know you're getting old when your students tell you, "I played you in a debate in the fourth grade."