Powell Nixes White House Run
Colin Powell, a man many political observers regard as a potential blue-chip GOP presidential candidate, has no plans to seek the presidency in 2000.
The retired Army general and architect of the U.S. victory in the 1991 Gulf War, told reporters in Iowa that he was more certain of his decision than Michael Jordan was of his decision this week to retire from professional basketball.
"I found Michael a little wishy washy. He said 99.9 (percent). I'm a little more sure than that," Powell joked.
Powell, 61, the first black to become the highest-ranking uniformed military officer as Joint Chiefs chairman, played a key role in the allied assault on Iraq after it invaded Kuwait.
In all, he served three presidents -- two Republicans and one Democrat -- in senior military advisory positions.
His humble roots in New York City, sparkling career record, "can-do" personality and enormous personal prestige made him arguably the most sought-after man in America by the 1996 presidential election.
He chose not to run or sign on to the Republican ticket as a vice presidential candidate, and has since slipped from the spotlight.
Powell devotes time to non-profit and public service causes, and he serves on corporate boards. His most public role is leading
"Americas' Promise," an organization that promotes volunteerism among U.S. youth.
"Believe it or not, I am working harder now, in some ways, than I was as chairman when all I had to do was worry about military things, so I find retirement not much of a retirement," he said. "Life is full and I could use another four hours every
day."
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