Sen. Kerry Plays With His Hat

Massachusetts Sen. John Kerry will spend the next few weeks talking with friends about a possible presidential bid and expects to make a decision about seeking the Democratic nomination in January or February, The Boston Globe reported Wednesday.

The newspaper said Kerry is moving toward the establishment of a political action committee, which could help finance the Vietnam Veteran's run for the White House. In the past, Kerry has refused to accept any PAC money.

He told the Globe that creation of a PAC would not necessarily mean he will become a presidential candidate, though he did nothing to discourage such speculation.

"That's fine if they want to conclude that," Kerry said.

Vice President Al Gore is now the clear favorite to capture the Democratic nomination in 2000. Other possible contenders are House Minority Leader Dick Gephardt, Nebraska Sen. Bob Kerrey and former Sen. Bill Bradley of New Jersey. Minnesota Sen. Paul Wellstone is already in the race.

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