Low turnout hinderes GOP counter rally during Clinton visit

The Penn RepublicansThe Penn Republicansfaced loud critics, butThe Penn Republicansfaced loud critics, butClinton welcomed thoseThe Penn Republicansfaced loud critics, butClinton welcomed thosewho supported Dole. Although their banners integrated the same patriotic colors, their message was quite different. As President Clinton spoke on Hill Field yesterday, a small group from Penn's College Republicans proclaimed their support for the Bob Dole/Jack Kemp ticket, infuriating many rally attendees. College freshman Patrick Ruffini was among those voicing their opposition to Clinton. Ruffini said he had attempted to organize a counter rally during the president's visit in the hopes of receiving media attention for Dole and Kemp. "We attended the rally to show the University community that Republicans have a strong presence on campus," Ruffini said. But though he declared the counter rally a success, Ruffini called it "unorganized" and noted that he only handed out five or six Dole/Kemp signs. He said his own sign "was ripped away from me by a Clinton supporter." College Republicans member Jason Herman said he attended the speech but decided not to participate in the counter rally. "I didn't feel it was appropriate," the College sophomore said. College junior Sharon Weinzimer , who supports Clinton, said she thought the Republicans were disrespectful. "I understand that everyone doesn't support Bill Clinton, but to hold a sign up while he speaking is rude," she said, adding that she thought Clinton handled the opposition well. During his speech, Clinton said he was "glad" to see the Republicans represented in the crowd. "That's what makes America America," he said. "If we all agreed, it wouldn't be nearly as interesting as it is, because we're all different." But many in attendance were less understanding. Shouts of "get the signs down" were heard throughout the crowd. "Obviously, they are lost," said local resident Brian Greenstreet. "They should have locked the doors at the nuthouse so they can't get out." Ruffini said he was glad the Republican efforts were recognized at the podium. "I was thrilled that [the president] took the time to notice us, the few people in the crowd," he said.